Procedure per Central Bank of the UAE (centralbank.ae). Fees and timelines change — check the authority's website. We don't invent numbers.
How to open your account
- 1
Choose a bank
You can open an account with either local or international banks operating in the UAE. Many of them allow you to apply online through their mobile app, so compare what each offers and how you would prefer to apply.
- 2
Prepare the required documents
Gather the documents banks most commonly ask for. Proof of address is only needed in some cases, so check what your chosen bank requires before you start.
Documents:Emirates IDValid UAE residence visaPassport or family bookSalary certificate or employment letterProof of address (in some cases) - 3
Submit the application
You can open an account either by visiting a bank branch or by applying through the bank's website or mobile application. Some banks offer fully digital account opening, where identity verification is handled through the app.
- 4
Activate your account
Once your application is approved, your bank account is activated. You receive a debit card and gain access to online and mobile banking services. Common account types you can choose from include a current account, a savings account and a business account.
Fees and timelines may change — verify with the official source.
Who provides this service in Dubai
Real companies from Google Maps — live ratings and reviews.
Shuraa Business Setup (Main Branch Dubai & UAE)
4.7(3057)Sheikh Zayed Road, 5th Floor - Aspin Commercial Tower - المركز التجاري الأولي - دبي - United Arab Emirates
ADCB - Dubai Mall Branch
4.8(3345)Financial Centre Road, Dubai Mall, Ground level Dubai - برج خليفة - وسط مدينة دبي - دبي - United Arab Emirates
SRTIP Accelerator Dubai | Free Zone Company Formation
4.7(327)ROLEX TOWER - Level 9B Sheikh Zayed Rd - Trade Center Second - DIFC - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
HSBC Customer Service Centre Dubai Mall
3.9(557)Unit LG - 059 - شارع الشيخ زايد - Burj Khalifa - Downtown Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Bankbychoice
4.5(2221)319 Al Nasr Plaza Office Tower - عود ميثاء - دبي - United Arab Emirates
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) | Dubai Mall Branch
3.8(510)Unit LG - 136 - Financial Ctr St - Burj Khalifa - Downtown Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Prefer to skip the guesswork?
Our relocation team helps expats in Dubai open a UAE bank account online — from picking the right bank to preparing your documents and getting through the application cleanly. Tell us your situation and we will guide you through it.
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