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.
Documents — General Guidance
Requirements vary by bank, account type, and individual situation. Check 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. Check 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 →Related guides
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I open a UAE bank account as a new resident?
For employed residents, your employer typically directs you to a WPS-approved bank for your salary account. You usually need: Emirates ID, UAE residence visa, passport, and employment contract. Requirements vary by bank. remit.ae does not open bank accounts — contact your employer and the bank directly.
Which banks are available for new UAE residents?
Major UAE banks include Emirates NBD, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), Mashreq, and others. Your employer may specify a bank for WPS payroll. remit.ae is not affiliated with any UAE bank and does not recommend any specific bank.
Can tourists open a UAE bank account?
Yes. On 30 April 2026, CBUAE, ICP, and ADCB launched the Tourist Identity initiative, enabling biometric/facial onboarding for a UAE bank account on arrival. ADCB is the launch partner. remit.ae does not open bank accounts — contact ADCB or CBUAE directly.
Does remit.ae open bank accounts for new UAE residents?
No. remit.ae is an independent information and comparison platform. We do not open bank accounts, provide banking services, or collect personal banking documents. For a UAE bank account, contact your employer (for WPS) or the bank directly.
What documents do UAE banks typically request?
UAE banks commonly ask for: valid passport, Emirates ID (for residents), UAE residence visa, employment contract or offer letter. Requirements vary significantly by bank and account type. Check required documents directly with your chosen bank before visiting. remit.ae does not assess eligibility.
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