Opening a new bank account in the UAE is a crucial step for residents, expatriates, and businesses to manage finances in Dubai’s thriving economy. At Buraqs CNP Consultants, based in Hor Al Anz, Dubai, we assist clients from the UK, USA, Germany, France, and beyond to navigate this process seamlessly. This 2025 guide covers everything you need to know about how to open new bank account in UAE, including types, requirements, process, costs, and benefits, ensuring a smooth banking experience.
Open New Bank Account in UAE
Open new bank account in the UAE involves setting up a personal or business account with a licensed bank, such as Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), or HSBC, to manage daily transactions, savings, or business operations. Regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE, accounts come with an International Bank Account Number (IBAN) for secure electronic payments, mandatory since 2012. With over 60 banks and 900 ATMs across the UAE, Dubai is a global financial hub offering advanced digital banking solutions like the DIB alt mobile app.
Whether you’re an expat, a UAE resident, or a non-resident, a bank account simplifies salary deposits, bill payments, and investments. Buraqs CNP Consultants ensures your Dubai bank account setup aligns with your financial goals.
Types of Bank Accounts in UAE
The UAE offers various bank account types tailored to personal and business needs. Key types include:
- Current Account: For daily transactions, offering debit cards, online banking, and cheque books (for residents). Ideal for salary deposits.
- Savings Account: Earns interest (e.g., up to 5% with ADCB Super Saver) with no cheque book, suitable for saving goals.
- Fixed Deposit Account: Offers higher interest rates (e.g., 3.40% p.a. with Emirates NBD) for locked-in funds over a fixed term.
- Corporate/Business Account: For companies, supporting payments to employees or suppliers, requiring a UAE trade license.
- Offshore Account: For non-residents, ideal for international transactions, offered by free zones like RAK ICC.
- Joint Account: Shared by two individuals (e.g., spouses), requiring both to be UAE residents with valid visas.
- Multi-Currency Account: Supports currencies like AED, USD, GBP, and EUR, as offered by FAB or HSBC, for global transactions.
Our UAE business banking consultancy at Buraqs CNP Consultants helps you select the right account type for your needs.
Requirements to Open New Bank Account in UAE
To open a new bank account in the UAE, specific documents and eligibility criteria must be met, varying by bank and account type. General requirements include:
- Valid passport (minimum 1-6 months’ validity) and a copy.
- UAE residence visa or investor visa (for non-GCC nationals; non-residents may provide visa later).
- Emirates ID or ID application form (if ID is in process).
- Proof of address (e.g., tenancy contract, utility bill, or Ejari certificate).
- Proof of income (e.g., salary certificate, payslip, or bank statement; minimum salary of AED 3,000-5,000 for some accounts).
- UAE mobile number (required by some banks like ADCB).
- Trade license and company documents (for corporate accounts, including Memorandum of Association).
Non-residents may open savings or offshore accounts but are typically ineligible for current accounts or loans. Buraqs CNP Consultants ensures all documents are prepared to meet bank standards.
How to Open New Bank Account in UAE
Opening a new bank account in UAE is streamlined with Buraqs CNP Consultants’ support, using online or in-person methods. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Choose a Bank and Account Type: Select a bank (e.g., Emirates NBD, DIB, FAB) and account (personal, business, or offshore) based on your needs. Our team advises on options like zero-balance accounts or high-interest savings.
- Gather Documents: Collect your passport, visa, Emirates ID, proof of address, and income documents. For corporate accounts, include your trade license and MOA.
- Apply Online or In-Person: Use digital platforms like DIB’s alt mobile app, HSBC UAE app, or Emirates NBD’s online form for instant setup. Alternatively, visit a branch (over 200 Emirates NBD branches or 60 FAB branches) with documents.
- Complete Verification: Scan your Emirates ID and verify identity via the bank’s app or in-person. Non-residents may need to sign documents in the presence of a bank officer.
- Fund the Account: Deposit the minimum balance (if required; some accounts like Emirates NBD Liv. offer zero-balance options).
- Receive Account Details: Get your IBAN, debit card (delivered within 1-2 days), and access to online banking within minutes.
Processing takes 5-15 minutes online or 1-2 days in-branch, depending on the bank. Our Dubai personal banking consultancy ensures a hassle-free setup.
Costs of Open New Bank Account in UAE
The cost of open new bank account in UAE varies by bank and account type. Typical expenses include:
- Account Opening Fee: Often free for personal accounts (e.g., DIB, Emirates NBD Liv.), though some premium accounts may charge.
- Minimum Balance Fee: Charged if the balance falls below the bank’s threshold (e.g., AED 3,000 for some current accounts); zero-balance accounts are available.
- Debit Card Fee: Usually free, but non-ADCB ATM usage or card replacement may incur charges.
- Account Closure Fee: Up to AED 100 if closed early (e.g., within 6 months).
- Service Fees: For additional services like cheque books, extra statements, or international transfers.
- Professional Fees: Consultancy fees for assistance with account setup, especially for corporate or non-resident accounts (contact us for a tailored quote).
Buraqs CNP Consultants provides cost-effective guidance to optimize your UAE expat banking experience.
Benefits of Opening a New Bank Account in UAE
Opening a new bank account in UAE offers significant advantages for individuals and businesses:
- Digital Convenience: Instant account opening via apps like DIB alt mobile or HSBC UAE, with 24/7 online banking and mobile apps.
- Global Access: IBAN and SWIFT codes enable seamless international transfers, as noted on X for multi-currency accounts.
- Financial Services: Access loans, credit cards (with AED 5,000 minimum salary), and insurance plans from banks like Emirates NBD.
- Zero-Balance Options: Accounts like Emirates NBD Liv. or DIB require no minimum balance, ideal for new residents.
- Exclusive Rewards: Earn Etihad Guest Miles (ADCB), Air Miles (HSBC), or cashback on cards, enhancing lifestyle benefits.
- Business Efficiency: Corporate accounts streamline salary payments and supplier transactions, mandatory for UAE businesses.
- ExtensiveNetwork:Over 900 ATM Sand 200 + branches (eg,Emirates NBD, FAB) ensure accessibility across Dubai and UAE
With Dubai’s robust banking infrastructure, a new account unlocks financial stability and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Opening a New Bank Account in UAE
1. Can non-residents open a bank account in UAE?
Yes, non-residents can open savings or offshore accounts, but current accounts and loans are typically restricted to residents.
2. What documents are needed to open a bank account in UAE?
You need a valid passport, UAE visa (if applicable), Emirates ID, proof of address, and proof of income (e.g., salary certificate).
3. How long does it take to open a bank account in UAE?
Online accounts (e.g., DIB, HSBC) open in 5-15 minutes, while in-branch setups may take 1-2 days, depending on verification.
4. Are there zero-balance bank accounts in UAE?
Yes, banks like Emirates NBD Liv. and DIB offer accounts with no minimum balance or monthly fees.
5. How can Buraqs CNP Consultants help with opening a bank account?
Our Dubai-based team assists with document preparation, bank selection, and application submission, ensuring a seamless setup for personal or business accounts.
Contact Buraqs CNP Consultants for Bank Account Support
Ready to open a new bank account in UAE? Buraqs CNP Consultants, based in Hor Al Anz, Dubai, offers expert UAE visa consultancy and banking services to streamline your financial setup. Book a free consultation today!
- Phone: +971 58 664 8470
- Email: admin@buraqscnp.com
- Address: Alsafiya-Bldg Office No 1f-54, Hor Al Anz, Dubai, UAE
Fill out our online form to schedule a consultation or request tailored banking assistance. Let’s set up your financial future in Dubai!
Disclaimer: I’d like to point out that the information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional advice. While Buraqs CNP strives to ensure accuracy, we don’t have any warranties regarding the completeness or suitability of this content for your specific situation. If you choose to act on this information without consulting Buraqs CNP’s expert services, you do so at your own risk. Buraqs CNP is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from the use of this information without our direct consultation. For personalized assistance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Buraqs CNP to ensure your business setup or visa process is handled correctly.