UAE Bank Account for New Residents
General educational guide. Bank account basics, typical documents, salary accounts, tourist accounts. remit.ae does not open accounts.
How do new UAE residents open a bank account?
For employed residents: your employer directs you to a WPS-approved bank for salary. Typical documents: Emirates ID, residence visa, passport, employment contract. Requirements vary by bank. For tourists: the Tourist Identity initiative (CBUAE + ICP + ADCB, April 2026) enables biometric onboarding on arrival via ADCB. remit.ae does not open bank accounts — contact your employer or the bank directly.
UAE Bank Account — What to Know
General education. remit.ae does not open bank accounts or recommend any bank.
What is a UAE bank account?
A UAE bank account is an account held at a UAE-licensed bank. Most UAE residents need a bank account for: receiving salary (WPS), paying bills and rent, using a UAE debit card for contactless and online payments, and sending money internationally via the bank app.
remit.ae does not open bank accounts. Contact your employer or your chosen bank directly.
Major UAE banks
The UAE has a well-developed banking sector. Major banks include Emirates NBD, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), Mashreq, and others. Each bank has different account types, fee structures, and digital banking capabilities. Your employer may specify a bank for WPS payroll.
remit.ae is not affiliated with any UAE bank. No bank partnership exists. This is general information — not a recommendation.
Types of UAE bank accounts
Common account types include: current/chequing accounts (for everyday spending and salary), savings accounts (earn interest), and salary accounts (specifically for WPS payroll). Non-residents or tourists may have access to limited-feature accounts depending on the bank's policies.
Account types, fees, and eligibility vary by bank. Verify with your specific bank.
Documents typically requested (general)
UAE banks commonly ask for some or all of: valid passport, Emirates ID (for residents), UAE residence visa, employment contract or offer letter, payslip or salary certificate. Requirements vary significantly by bank and account type. Tourist accounts under the Tourist Identity initiative may have different requirements.
Document requirements vary by institution and may change. remit.ae does not assess your eligibility. Always verify with the bank directly.
UAE debit card and digital wallet
After opening a UAE bank account, you typically receive a debit card. Most UAE bank cards are contactless (Visa, Mastercard, or Jaywan national scheme). You can add your card to Apple Pay or Google Pay for mobile contactless payments at UAE terminals.
Verify card scheme and digital wallet support with your bank. remit.ae does not issue cards or provide payment services.
Documents — General Guidance
Requirements vary by bank, account type, and individual situation. Always verify with your specific bank.
Valid passport
Usually required
Emirates ID
For residents
UAE residence visa
For resident accounts
Employment contract / offer letter
For salary / WPS accounts
Salary certificate or payslip
Some banks require
Proof of address
Some banks require — varies
Document requirements vary by bank and may change. remit.ae does not assess your eligibility. Always verify directly with the bank.
For tourists: Tourist Identity Initiative
On 30 April 2026, CBUAE, ICP, and ADCB launched the Tourist Identity initiative — biometric/facial onboarding for a UAE bank account on arrival. Jaywan debit card and Aani access included.
remit.ae does not provide Tourist Identity services. Verify with ADCB or CBUAE.
Tourist digital bank account full guide →