Why You Need a UAE Bank Account
A local bank account is essential for life in Dubai. Your salary will be paid in AED, rent is paid by cheque (yes, cheques are still used here!), and most services require local banking.
The good news? Opening an account is straightforward once you have your Emirates ID.
When Can You Open an Account?
You need your Emirates ID before most banks will open a full account. Some banks offer basic accounts with just your visa and passport, but you'll have limited functionality.
Sara's tip: Don't rush this. Wait until you have your Emirates ID – it makes everything smoother and you'll have access to all banking services from day one.
Popular Banks for Expats
These are the most commonly used banks among expat families:
| Bank | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates NBD | Overall choice | Largest bank, excellent app, wide ATM network |
| FAB (First Abu Dhabi) | Premium services | Good for higher earners, strong customer service |
| Mashreq | Tech-forward banking | Modern digital experience, Neo account popular |
| ADCB | Competitive rates | Good savings rates, solid all-rounder |
| HSBC | International transfers | Good if you have HSBC in home country |
| Liv. | Digital-first | App-only bank, quick setup, good for younger expats |
Documents You'll Need
- Passport (original and copy)
- Emirates ID (original and copy)
- Visa page copy
- Salary certificate from employer
- Proof of address (tenancy contract or utility bill)
- Passport-size photographs
Note: Requirements vary by bank. Some may ask for additional documents like bank statements from your home country.
The Process
- Choose your bank – Consider branch locations near you, app quality, and what colleagues/friends use
- Visit a branch – While some banks offer online applications, visiting in person is often faster
- Complete application – Fill out forms, provide documents, answer questions about your employment
- Wait for approval – Usually 2-5 business days
- Collect your cards – Debit card, checkbook, and access to online banking
Minimum Salary Requirements
Most banks have minimum salary requirements for certain accounts:
| Account Type | Typical Minimum Salary |
|---|---|
| Basic current account | AED 3,000-5,000/month |
| Premium/Priority account | AED 25,000-50,000/month |
| Private banking | AED 100,000+/month or AED 1M+ assets |
If your salary is below the minimum, you may need to maintain a minimum balance instead.
Understanding Cheques in Dubai
Yes, cheques are still a thing here! You'll need them for:
- Rent payments – Landlords typically require post-dated cheques for the year
- Some school fees – Though many accept card/transfer now
- Large purchases – Sometimes preferred for furniture, cars
Order your checkbook when you open your account. Most banks provide 25-50 cheques free initially.
Important: Bounced cheques are a serious matter in the UAE. Never write a cheque if you don't have the funds – it can have legal consequences.
Banking Fees to Expect
| Fee Type | Typical Amount |
|---|---|
| Account maintenance | AED 0-50/month (often waived with salary transfer) |
| Debit card | AED 0-100/year |
| Checkbook (25 leaves) | AED 25-50 |
| International transfers | AED 25-75 per transfer |
| ATM (other bank) | AED 2-5 per withdrawal |
Many fees are waived if you transfer your salary to the account or maintain a minimum balance.
Transferring Money Internationally
You'll likely need to send money home or receive funds from abroad. Options:
- Bank transfers (SWIFT) – Secure but expensive (AED 50-75 + exchange rate markup)
- Wise (formerly TransferWise) – Better rates, lower fees, very popular among expats
- UAE Exchange/Al Ansari – Local exchange houses, good for certain corridors
Set up a Wise account alongside your UAE bank – the exchange rates are usually much better for regular transfers.
Digital Banking Apps
All major UAE banks have excellent mobile apps. You can:
- Transfer money instantly between UAE accounts
- Pay bills (DEWA, phone, internet)
- Request checkbooks
- Set up standing orders
- Freeze/unfreeze cards
Emirates NBD and Mashreq are particularly known for their user-friendly apps.
Opening Accounts for Your Family
Once you're established, you can open:
- Joint account with spouse – Useful for household expenses
- Savings accounts – Some offer competitive rates (2-4% on AED savings)
- Children's accounts – Most banks offer junior savings accounts
Quick Tips
- Choose a bank near home or work – You'll visit branches more than you think
- Set up salary transfer – Gets you better rates and waived fees
- Order extra cheques – Especially if renting, you'll use them
- Download the app immediately – It's how you'll do most banking
- Set up Wise for international transfers – Save money on exchange rates
Need help choosing a bank or understanding UAE banking? I'm happy to share what's worked for us.