Bank Account Opening in Dubai
Abu Dhabi Mainland is an ideal location for starting a business, offering full foreign ownership in many sectors and access to the entire UAE market. Unlike free zones, businesses here can operate across the Emirates and work directly with local and government clients, including big government contracts.
With easy registration, profit repatriation, and low taxes, Abu Dhabi Mainland is a strong choice for both new and experienced business owners.
Corporate Bank Account
Personal Bank Account
Non Resident Bank Account
Offshore Bank Account
Savings Account
Required Documents for Issuing Abu Dhabi Mainland License
Current Accounts
Designed for daily use, current accounts offer quick access to funds, chequebooks, debit cards, and online banking. Minimum balances typically start at AED 3,000, making them ideal for residents and businesses needing frequent transactions.
Savings Accounts
These accounts help individuals and businesses save money with interest, though they often have withdrawal limits. Minimum balances start at around AED 5,000, offering a secure way to grow funds over time.
Business Accounts
Tailored for business needs, these accounts support payroll and supplier payments, and they come with multi-signatory access and advanced online tools. Documentation like a trade license and a minimum balance (AED 25,000 to AED 500,000) are usually required.
Investement Accounts
Perfect for those looking to grow wealth, these accounts allow for investments in stocks, bonds, and real estate. They have higher balance requirements and management fees, and they require compliance checks, including proof of funds.
Offshore Accounts
Offshore accounts are for non-residents seeking multi-currency options and confidentiality. They come with higher balance requirements and strict compliance, including document attestation and, in some cases, a local representative for chequebooks.

Emirates NBD Bank

Emirates blamic Bank

Mashreq Bank

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)

RAKIBANK
Steps to Open a Bank Account in Dubai
Obtain a Business License
A valid business license from Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED) or a free zone authority is essential to verify your business’s legal status.
Select a Bank
Choose a bank that aligns with your needs, such as Emirates NBD or Dubai Islamic Bank, considering factors like fees, minimum balances, and online banking features.
Prepare Your Documents
Gather essential documents like the trade license, Memorandum of Association (MOA), Articles of Association (AOA), passport copies of shareholders, and Emirates ID (if applicable). Offshore entities may need document attestation.
Activate Your Account
Upon approval, activate the account by meeting the minimum balance requirement, typically between AED 25,000 and AED 500,000, based on the bank and account type
Compliance Checks
UAE banks conduct KYC and AML checks, which may include verifying shareholder backgrounds and business sources of funds.
Submit Your Application
Visit the bank to submit your application, where a primary shareholder may need to sign in person and verify documents. Banks may also ask for details about your business operations and expected transactions.
Benefits of Opening a Bank Account in Dubai, UAE
Financial Benefits
Enhanced Credibility
Stability and Security
Investment Opportunities
Global Transactions
Credit Facilities
Legal Structures for Company Formation in Abu Dhabi Mainland
Sole Proprietorship
Ideal for individual entrepreneurs who want full control and profit retention. Foreigners may need a UAE national as a local agent for government-related processes.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Popular due to limited liability, where shareholders are only liable up to their investment. Supports up to 50 shareholders and allows full foreign ownership in many sectors.
Partnership
Reserved for UAE nationals, with partners fully liable for business obligations. Suitable for businesses where partners share responsibilities.
Limited Partnership
General partners manage and are fully liable, while limited partners only invest and have liability limited to their investment. Appeals to passive investors.
Public Shareholding Company
Best for large businesses needing significant capital. Requires at least 10 founders, with UAE nationals owning at least 51%. Shares can be publicly traded.
Private Shareholding Company
For medium to large companies, requiring at least three shareholders and a minimum capital of AED 2 million. Shares are not publicly traded, allowing controlled ownership.
Joint Ventures
A flexible partnership between local and foreign entities, operating under a UAE partner’s name. Allows foreign investors market access with shared ownership.
Branch of a Local (UAE) Company
Branches of UAE companies allow local entities to expand operations across Abu Dhabi and beyond, conducting business under the parent company’s framework and complying with UAE regulations.
Branch of a Foreign Company
Enables international companies to operate in Abu Dhabi without creating a new legal entity. Operates under the parent company’s authority and local laws.
Foreign Representative Office
Used mainly for market research and promotions, without direct sales. Ideal for companies testing the UAE market with minimal operational commitment.
Steps to Open a Bank Account for Non-Residents in Dubai
Prepare Identification and Address Proof
Obtain a Bank Reference
Meet Minimum Balance Requirements
Select Renewal Method
Complete Application and Compliance Checks
Types of Bank Accounts Available in Dubai
Current Accounts
Designed for daily use, current accounts offer quick access to funds, chequebooks, debit cards, and online banking. Minimum balances typically start at AED 3,000, making them ideal for residents and businesses needing frequent transactions.
Savings Accounts
These accounts help individuals and businesses save money with interest, though they often have withdrawal limits. Minimum balances start at around AED 5,000, offering a secure way to grow funds over time.
Business Accounts
Tailored for business needs, these accounts support payroll and supplier payments, and they come with multi-signatory access and advanced online tools. Documentation like a trade license and a minimum balance (AED 25,000 to AED 500,000) are usually required.
Investement Accounts
Perfect for those looking to grow wealth, these accounts allow for investments in stocks, bonds, and real estate. They have higher balance requirements and management fees, and they require compliance checks, including proof of funds. .
Offshore Accounts
Offshore accounts are for non-residents seeking multi-currency options and confidentiality. They come with higher balance requirements and strict compliance, including document attestation and, in some cases, a local representative for chequebooks.
Bank Account Opening Consultants in Dubai
We are here to provide comprehensive support for your Bank Account Opening in Dubai, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Connect with us now to begin your journey with a FREE consultation!
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