Moving to the UAE or settling in long term comes with one unavoidable task: choosing the right bank. For expats, banking in the UAE can feel confusing at first. Salary thresholds, minimum balance requirements, account fees, and the choice between conventional and Islamic banking mean that not all banks are equally expat-friendly. What works for a high-income professional may not suit a student, freelancer, or someone new to the country.
The good news is that the UAE has one of the most advanced banking systems in the region. Strong regulation, digital innovation, and healthy competition between local and international banks have made everyday banking faster, more flexible, and increasingly mobile-first.
In this guide, we compare the best banks in the UAE for expats in 2025, focusing on practical criteria such as ease of account opening, minimum salary and balance requirements, digital banking experience, fees, and the availability of savings and investment options.
If saving is your main priority rather than day-to-day banking, you may also want to explore our guide to the best saving accounts in the UAE, which compares interest rates and account features in more detail.
Whether you are opening your first UAE bank account or considering a switch, this comparison will help you find a bank that fits both your lifestyle and financial goals.
Best Banks in UAE
The banks listed below are among the most popular choices for expats living in the UAE. Each offers a different balance of convenience, pricing, and financial products, making them suitable for different income levels and personal needs. Rather than focusing only on size or profitability, we look at how well each bank serves real expat use cases, from salary accounts and zero-balance options to savings, loans, and Sharia-compliant alternatives.
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Emirates NBD
Emirates NBD or Emirates National Bank of Dubai, is one of the most prominent and trusted banking institutions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Founded in 2007 as a result of the merger between Emirates Bank International (EBI) and the National Bank of Dubai (NBD), Emirates NBD has become a leading financial powerhouse in the region.
The bank boasts an extensive network of branches, ATMs, and cash deposit machines across the UAE. This extensive presence ensures accessibility and convenience for customers throughout the country.
Popular Products and Services
Emirates NBD offers a comprehensive range of financial products and services, catering to individuals, businesses, and various customer segments. These include Retail Banking, digital banking solutions, corporate banking, Sharia-compliant banking, wealth management services, and private banking.
- Emirates NBD Credit Card
Emirates NBD offers a wide selection of credit cards to choose from. Each card caters to a unique set of personal preferences. The bank charges an interest rate starting from 1.49% with a minimum salary requirement of 5,000 AED a month.
- Emirates NBD Personal Loan
Emirates NBD offers 6 different types of personal loans to best suit the diverse financial needs of their clientele. The interest rate for personal loans starts from around 2.8% and may vary depending on the type and amount of loan requested.
- Factoring
The factoring services rendered by Emirates NBD allow organizations to simplify their cash flow and utilize their current assets in the best of ways. These unique and advanced services help businesses streamline their administrative services and regulate the monitoring of local and export receivables.
Emirates NBD offers one of the best Wakala Deposit Account options for interested customers. Wakala is a type of Islamic banking contract in which you authorize a Wakil to invest assets according to the Islamic principle of banking.
Net Worth and Profits
- Net Worth: 741.96 billion (2022)
- Net Profit: 3 million AED (2022)
Please note that these financial figures are subject to change over time due to various factors, including economic conditions and the bank's financial performance.
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First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
The next one on our list of best banks in UAE is FAB. First Abu Dhabi Bank, commonly known as FAB, is the largest bank in the United Arab Emirates and one of the leading financial institutions in the Middle East. FAB has a rich history and an extensive range of financial products and services, making it a prominent choice for individuals, businesses, and investors in the region.
FAB offers a comprehensive suite of retail banking services, including savings accounts, current accounts, fixed deposits, and personal loans.
They also offer wealth management services, corporate and business banking, investment banking, Islamic banking solutions, and online banking services.
Popular Products and Services
- FAB Personal Loan
FAB offers a wide variety of personal loans to facilitate expats and UAE nationals. The bank also caters to newbies who struggle to settle in the country. They offer loans at interest rates starting from 1.62% with a minimum salary requirement of 7,000 AED a month.
- FAB Credit Cards
FAB offers a range of credit cards each with its unique set of features to suit their diverse clientele. To be eligible to apply for a FAB credit card, you must be earning a minimum salary of 5,000 AED a month. The interest rate for credit cards typically starts from 3.25%.
- FAB Accelerator
FAB Accelerator is a loyalty program that helps account holders customize their banking experience. It offers three unique options including booster, booster plus, and turbo booster to help people maximize their profits and reap attractive benefits.
You need to open a Current Account with the bank and transfer at least 15,000 AED a month to your account to be a part of the Accelerator program.
- FAB at Work
FAB at Work is a unique financial solution offered to businesses and organizations to streamline their finances. The program supports businesses in catering to the diverse financial needs of their workers and employees.
Net Worth and Profit
- Net worth: 13.4 billion AED (2022)
- Net profit: 8.1 billion AED (2023)
It is advisable to check the latest financial reports and disclosures from FAB for the most up-to-date information.
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Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB)
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) is a leading banking institution in the United Arab Emirates, boasting a rich history dating back to 1985. With an extensive branch network and a comprehensive range of financial products and services, ADCB caters to the diverse needs of its individual, corporate, and government clientele.
The bank is known for its strong financial position, commitment to customer service, and continuous investments in digital innovation, offering customers a seamless and user-friendly banking experience.
ADCB's presence extends beyond the UAE, and it actively participates in sustainability initiatives while receiving recognition for its excellence in banking services and Islamic banking solutions.
Prominent Products and Services
- ADCB Personal Loans
The bank offers a wide selection of personal loans with different features and characteristics. Each loan is personalized to facilitate the diverse financial needs of the customers. They offer smart finance loans, rental loans, and personal loans for local Emiratis and expats. The interest rate typically starts from 2.89% with a minimum salary requirement of 5,000 AED.
- Business Loans
ADCB offers a variety of business loans to cater to the needs and demands of a diverse clientele. They provide equipment finance, business instant loan, and loans for commercial real estate among many other business finance solutions. Loans offered by ADCB usually have shorter approval times with interest rates starting from 17%.
- Offshore Accounts
ADCB allows customers to open offshore accounts to cater to foreign nationals and investors in the UAE. This type of account may help customers to manage different currencies from anywhere across the globe.
- Asset Management
Treasury services and asset management solutions offered by ADCB help investors and businesses invest their hard-earned money in Shariah-compliant ways. These unique services aid customers in maximizing their savings and growing wealth with the least risks involved.
Net Worth and Profit:
- Net Worth: 521 billion AED (2023)
- Net Profit: 1.932 billion AED (2023)
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Emirates Islamic Bank
The next bank that made it to our list of best banks in UAE is Emirates Islamic. Emirates Islamic Bank, based in the United Arab Emirates, is a prominent and highly regarded financial institution with a strong focus on Sharia-compliant banking services. Established in 2004, the bank has rapidly expanded its footprint to become a leading player in the Islamic banking sector.
Offering a wide range of innovative and ethical financial products and services, Emirates Islamic caters to the diverse needs of its customers, including retail and business banking, wealth management, and digital banking solutions.
The bank's commitment to Islamic principles, combined with its dedication to customer service, has earned it a solid reputation in the UAE's banking landscape and has positioned it as a reliable choice for those seeking Sharia-compliant financial solutions.
Prominent Products and Services:
- Emirates Islamic Credit Cards:
Emirates Islamic offers 13 different types of credit cards with a lot of different features including skyward miles, cashback, and discounts on groceries and restaurants. You must be earning a minimum of 5,000 AED to be eligible to apply for an Emirates Islamic credit card.
- Personal Loans:
The bank offers a variety of personal loans to cater to the needs of nationals and expats. They also provide credit cards for free to customers who apply for a personal loan. The minimum salary requirement to be able to apply for a personal loan at Emirates Islamic Bank is 5,000 AED
Net Worth and Profit:
- Net Worth: 77.9 million AED (2023)
- Net Profit: 604 million AED (2023)
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Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), headquartered in the United Arab Emirates, is a distinguished financial institution renowned for its commitment to Islamic banking principles. Established in 1997, ADIB has grown to become a leading player in the Islamic finance sector.
With a comprehensive network of branches and an innovative digital presence, the bank caters to a diverse clientele, providing a wide range of Sharia-compliant financial products and services, including retail and corporate banking, wealth management, and cutting-edge digital solutions.
ADIB's steadfast dedication to Islamic values and emphasis on customer service has solidified its position as a trusted choice for individuals and businesses seeking ethical and inclusive banking solutions in the UAE.
Popular Products and Services
- Personal Loans
ADIB offers a good range of personal loans catering to the dynamic financial needs of its customers. The interest rate on personal loans typically starts from 3.44% with a minimum salary requirement of 8,000 AED a month.
- Credit/Debit Cards
ADIB provides a variety of debit and credit cards, each with its unique features and benefits. The bank offers an interest rate of 2.99% on credit cards and requires aspiring cardholders to be earning at least 5,000 AED a month.
- Global Transaction Banking
Global Transaction Banking or GTB by ADIB provides smart and convenient Cash and Trade Management services to facilitate the financial requirements of corporate clients. The smart solutions are aimed at helping businesses simplify their financial goals in a much more organized way.
Net Worth and Profit
- Net Worth:168.5 billion (2022)
- Net profit: 1.1 billion AED (2023)
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Dubai Islamic Bank
Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) is a prominent and pioneering financial institution in the United Arab Emirates, known for its unwavering commitment to Islamic banking principles. Established in 1975, DIB has been at the forefront of shaping the Islamic banking landscape in the region.
With an extensive branch network, robust digital presence, and a diverse range of Sharia-compliant financial products and services, DIB caters to a wide spectrum of clients, offering retail and corporate banking solutions, wealth management, and cutting-edge digital banking experiences.
The bank's dedication to upholding Islamic values and providing outstanding customer service has earned it a strong reputation and made it a trusted choice for individuals and businesses seeking ethical and inclusive banking solutions in the UAE.
Prominent Products and Services
- Personal Loans
DIB offers 9 types of personal loans, each with its unique set of features to facilitate a diverse customer base. The interest rate for DIB personal loans typically starts from 6% with a minimum salary requirement of 3,000 AED a month.
- Credit Cards
DIB offers a wide range of credit cards to best accommodate the personal finance needs of their customers. The interest rate on DIB credit cards typically ranges from 0-3.25% with a minimum salary requirement of 5,000 AED a month.
- Shariah Compliant Banking Services
DIB offers a wide selection of Islamic and Shariah Compliant banking solutions to help people grow their savings and invest funds in the best possible way. The bank aims to provide the best competitive rates on Sukuks and many other Islamic finance products.
Net Worth and Profit:
- Net Worth: 5.6 billion AED (2022)
- Net Profit: 3.111 million AED (2022)b
Also read: 12 Best Cashback Credit Card Offers in UAE