How to open a Non-Resident UAE Bank Account?

The UAE is one of the most attractive avenues among overseas tourists, investors, entrepreneurs, and job seekers. Creating and securing financial assets in one of the skyrocketing economies of the world is the utmost priority of people who look towards the Emirates.

If you are living in the UAE on a short-term visa or visiting the country for travel or business, you can open a non-resident UAE bank account. The most critical requirement to open a UAE bank account for non-residents is to ensure their physical presence in the Emirates throughout the process. 

The quickest and most hassle-free option to open a non-resident UAE bank account is to opt for the international bank and visit their UAE-based branch. The following blog will help you discover all the prerequisites and aspects you must know to open a UAE bank account for non-residents. 

Let’s discuss this in detail.

Who Can Open Non Resident Bank Account in UAE?

If you don’t have a UAE residence or work visa, you can still open a non-resident bank account in UAE. You can open two types of accounts as non-resident in the UAE based on the following categories.

• Non-resident and Non-GCC Nationals – If you are not a UAE resident and belong to any country other than the GCC countries, you can only open a savings account in the UAE.
• Non-resident and GCC National – If you are not a UAE resident and belong to any GCC country, you can open a current and savings account in the UAE.

How to Open Bank Account in UAE for Non Residents?

The first requirement to open a Dubai bank account for non-residents is to physically appear to open an account at the bank’s local branch. Some of the popular local and international banking options available in the UAE for non-residents include:

• International Banks
  • Standard Chartered
  • Citibank
  • Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited – HSBC
  • Royal Bank of Canada – RBC
• UAE-based Banks 
  • Emirates NBD (National Bank of Dubai)
  • First Gulf Bank – FGB
  • Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank – ABCB
  • Dubai Islamic Bank – DIB

The process of opening a non-resident Dubai bank account is very straightforward, and you can complete the entire process in a single visit. All you need to ensure is to complete the following set of documents:

• A copy of your passport (including the page showing the immigration stamp with the date of your arrival in the UAE)
• A copy of your updated resume to showcase your professional expertise
• The original reference letter from your existing bank account (personal or corporate) in your country of origin or somewhere else
• Last 6 months’ bank statement
• Copy of the most recent utility bill (Electricity or Gas)

You just need to submit all the required documents and provide your information and signatures on the account opening application form. After 1-2 weeks, you will get your debit card. Once your account is opened, the concerned bank will send a welcoming email with your account credentials for digital banking with the necessary terms and conditions. 

Requirements for Opening a Bank Account as a Non Resident

Before applying for a non-resident UAE bank account, you must remember the following vital aspects. 

• The Emirati banks make it compulsory for non-resident account holders to maintain a minimum benchmark of $100,000 in their non-resident UAE bank account. The UAE government ensures strict regulations in its financial policies. 
• The person’s physical presence is mandatory for opening a personal or corporate non-resident bank account. 
• The requirements for opening a corporate account depend upon the nature of the business and account type. Some of the general documents that UAE banks ask you include:
  • Proof of business address
  • Documents showing the corporate structure
  • Documents showing the legal framework of your company
  • Articles of Association
  • Memorandum of Association
  • Identity documents
  • Trade license
  • Financial Transactions of the business

Note: If the language on your documents is other than English, it is recommended to get all your documents translated.

Read our separate blog about how to open a corporate bank account in the UAE.

FAQs About UAE Non-Resident Bank Account

Conclusion

Around 80% of the UAE population comprises expatriates belonging to 200 nationalities. In 2022, there are around 9 million foreign nationals living in the UAE compared to 3.5 million locals. Therefore, the UAE government is keen on facilitating resident and non-resident foreigners in all aspects. As a foreigner, you can easily open your non-resident UAE bank account without trouble. All you have to do is physically appear at any local bank’s branch and provide the necessary documents.