Opening a bank account in the UAE is simple, fast, and necessary in everyday life. Many residents and expats choose to Open a Current or Saving Account in NBAD (FAB) to enjoy secure and flexible banking. Once the account is active, customers can manage their finances easily through online services, including options like NBAD balance check for tracking everyday transactions.
This guide is designed to help you understand the full process, from account types and eligibility to required documents and approval timelines.
Types of Accounts Available at NBAD (FAB)
FAB offers different types of accounts to match every customer’s financial needs. Whether you need daily access to funds or want to save, there is an option for you.
Current Account
With FAB’s current accounts, you can choose one that suits your lifestyle. Each account comes with its own benefits, digital banking access, and convenient features.
Personal Current Account
A great choice for salaried individuals and everyday spending. It offers multi-currency access (AED, USD, EUR, GBP, CAD), a free cheque book, and a contactless debit card. You get mobile and online banking, e-statements, and 24/7 support. Requires a minimum balance of AED 3,000.
FAB One Account
Ideal for those who want freedom from balance rules. It requires no minimum balance and offers 1% cashback on salary transfers. Comes with a free debit card, cheque book, free UAE transfers, and online bill payments.
Elite Current Account
Designed for high-income clients who expect premium service. Includes a Platinum debit card, airport lounge access, and cashback rewards. A dedicated Elite Manager handles your account. Requires a monthly salary of AED 50,000 or AED 500,000 in assets.
Etihad Guest Current Account
Best for frequent Etihad travelers. Earn Etihad Guest Miles with every salary transfer. Get free lounge access, travel insurance, multi-currency usage, and no fee on salary transfers. Includes a complimentary debit card.
Savings Account
You can increase your savings while having secure access to your funds with a FAB savings account. They are suitable for individual savers, low transaction users, or those looking for Shariah-compliant options.
Personal Savings Account
Ideal for customers who want to earn profit on their balance. This account offers competitive interest rates, a free debit card, and online/mobile banking. You receive monthly e-statements, and your funds stay easily accessible. A minimum balance of AED 3,000 is required.
Elite Savings Account
Designed for high-net-worth individuals who want premium savings benefits. It offers high interest rates, priority banking service, and access to FAB Rewards. Comes with a dedicated Elite Manager and exclusive lifestyle benefits. Requires an Elite relationship or a qualifying salary level.
Islamic Savings Account
A Shariah-compliant account that avoids interest and operates on profit-sharing principles. Suitable for customers who want ethical banking in accordance with Islamic finance. Includes online access, a free debit card, and monthly profit payouts.
Minor Savings Account
Specifically designed for parents saving on behalf of their children. This account helps build a savings habit early in life. It includes profit earnings, no cheque book, and full parental control over transactions. A valid guardian’s Emirates ID is required to open.
Step-by-Step Process to Open an NBAD (FAB) Account
Opening an account with FAB is simple and can be done in a few easy steps. You can apply through the official website, the FAB mobile app, or by visiting a branch, as explained below.
Account Openings via Website
FAB makes it easy to open an account directly through its official website. The process is smooth, secure, and ideal for users who prefer to handle their banking online. Here are the steps, for opening an account via the website:
- Visit the official FAB site at bankfab.com
- Go to the Accounts section and select the option that matches your preferred NBAD account types, such as Current or Savings.
- Click on Apply Now to start the application
- Fill in your personal and employment details
- Upload the required documents in digital format
- Submit your application and wait for verification by FAB.
Using FAB Mobile APP
The FAB Mobile App is the fastest way to open an account, especially for those who prefer full digital onboarding. It is highly recommended for Digital, Savings, and iSave account types. Start by following these steps.
- Download the FAB Mobile App from the App Store or Google Play
- Select “Join FAB” or “New Customer” from the menu
- Enter your mobile number and email, then verify with OTP
- Scan your Emirates ID (front and back) using the app
- Complete the facial recognition step for digital KYC
- Fill in your personal and employment information
- Choose the account type (Current, Savings, or iSave)
- Upload your digital signature and submit the application.
Branch Account Opening Process
Those who prefer in-person assistance can open an account at a FAB branch, even if they are not residents, businesses, or non-residents. It’s a reliable method for those who need face-to-face verification. To apply via a branch, follow these steps:
- Visit the nearest FAB branch with all required original documents
- Provide copies of your documents for bank records
- Fill out the account opening form with help from branch staff
- Submit the completed application for manual approval.
Eligibility Criteria and Documents Required to Open an NBAD (FAB) Account
Each NBAD account has its own eligibility rules and documentation requirements, depending on the type of account being opened. For more information, check out the following.
| Applicant Type | Eligibility Conditions |
| UAE Residents | Must be 18+ years, hold a valid Emirates ID and residence visa. |
| A salary certificate may be required depending on the account type. | |
| Non-Residents | Must have a valid passport and UAE entry stamp or visit visa. |
| Must show source of income and home-country address proof. | |
| Businesses/Companies | Must be licensed in the UAE with complete corporate documents and ID of signatories. |
Required Documents by Applicant Type
| Applicant Type | Required Documents |
| UAE Residents | Emirates ID (original + copy) |
| Valid passport with UAE visa | |
| Salary certificate or employment letter | |
| Proof of address (utility bill or tenancy contract) | |
| Selfie or facial verification (for digital KYC) | |
| Non-Residents | Valid passport with entry stamp or visit visa |
| Bank reference letter | |
| Last 3 months of bank statements | |
| Proof of income | |
| Home country address proof | |
| Businesses/Companies | Valid trade license and Memorandum of Association (MOA) |
| Certificate of incorporation | |
| Board resolution and shareholder IDs | |
| Power of Attorney (if applicable) |
Minimum Balance Requirements and Fees
Each FAB account type has its own balance rules, monthly charges, and service fees. The table below outlines the most relevant details for both current and savings accounts.
|
Account Type |
Minimum Balance |
Monthly Fee (If Balance Not Maintained) |
Other Key Charges |
| Personal Current Account | AED 3,000 | AED 25 | Free debit card, free cheque book, e-statements |
| FAB One Account | No minimum balance | None | 1% salary cashback, free UAE transfers, free bill payments |
| Elite Current Account | AED 50,000 salary or AED 500,000 total relationship | AED 250 (if criteria not met) | Lounge access, priority service, cashback offers |
| Etihad Guest Current Account | AED 10,000 | AED 25 | Earn Guest Miles, travel insurance, no salary transfer fee |
| Personal Savings Account | AED 3,000 | AED 25 | Interest/profit earnings, free debit card, online banking |
| Elite Savings Account | AED 50,000+ (varies by profile) | Varies | Premium rates, rewards, and elite service |
| Islamic Savings Account | AED 3,000 | AED 25 | Shariah-compliant profit structure, no interest-based earnings |
| Minor Savings Account | No minimum balance | None | Controlled by guardian, profit-based, no cheque book |
| iSave Digital Account | No minimum balance | None | Online only, higher profit rates, no branch access |
Time Required to Open and Activate the Account
The account activation time at FAB depends on how and where you apply. Some accounts are opened instantly, while others go through a short review process.
- FAB Mobile App:
- iSave Account: Activated instantly after digital KYC
- Other accounts: Typically activated within 1–2 business days
- FAB Website:
- Application review and activation take around 1–2 business days
- FAB Branch (Individuals):
- Account is usually active within 2–3 business days
- FAB Branch (Businesses):
- May take 3–5 business days or more, depending on document checks and approvals
Benefits of Opening an Account with NBAD (FAB)
From digital convenience to premium services, it covers all your personal and business needs. This includes effortless international transfers that require accurate details such as the FAB & NBAD SWIFT codes.
- Use of FAB Mobile and Online Banking
- Debit card for local and global use
- E-statements and real-time alerts
- Multi-currency transactions
- Earn FAB Rewards or Etihad Miles
- 24/7 customer support
- Free local transfers and bill payments
- Quick access to credit and top-up services
