Banking in United Arab Emirates

Best banks in United Arab Emirates for expats & digital nomads

Opening a bank account is one of the first things you do after moving to United Arab Emirates. Here are the accounts that work for newcomers and non-residents, plus the fintech we would set up before you fly.

How to open a bank account in United Arab Emirates

A full current account requires a UAE residence visa plus an Emirates ID; most banks also ask for passport and salary/no-objection certificate. Non-residents can typically open only limited savings or investment accounts, not a standard current account.

Our top pick

Wise multi-currency account

Wise is the option we recommend for almost anyone moving to United Arab Emirates: hold and convert 40+ currencies, get local account details to be paid like a local, and send money at the real exchange rate with low, transparent fees. It works before you even arrive, so you can receive income and pay deposits while your local account is still being set up.

Open a free Wise account →

Affiliate link: we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Wise is a fintech, not a bank; balances are safeguarded, not covered by deposit insurance.