Setting up a corporate bank account is one of the first crucial steps to set up your business in Dubai. As a new entrepreneur, you might feel overwhelmed by the options of the best UAE banks available, but a dedicated consultancy of business setup in Dubai can help you find the right bank to open your business account in Dubai. In this article, we have provided the list of the best UAE banks for opening bank account. Whether your company is in a mainland, free zone, or offshore setup, choosing the right bank can save you time and money. Keep on reading….
Why Opening a Bank Account for your Business is a Must in Dubai?
The Dubai government mandates that businesses maintain a corporate bank account for transparency and compliance. Key reasons include that since the UAE introduced a 5% VAT in 2018, and a 9% corporate tax for profits above AED 375,000 in 2023, a corporate account ensures proper tax filings and audits. A corporate bank account facilitates Know Your Customer (KYC) checks, proving your business’s legitimacy to regulators and partners.
Having a corporate bank account in Dubai allows seamless payments to suppliers, payroll processing, and integration with the UAE’s Wage Protection System (WPS). Plus, having a UAE IBAN builds credibility with clients and helps avoid international transfer fees. For new businesses, digital banking options have made the process faster in 2025, with some approvals in just 2-3 days. This is perfect if you’re a startup and need quick access to funds.
Documents Required for Opening Bank Account in the UAE
Below is the list of common documents required for opening bank account in Dubai, and the requirements may vary slightly based on the business type and jurisdiction you choose – Mainland or Freezone.
Valid trade license, MOA, and share certificates (if any)
Passports, Emirates IDs, and residence visas (if any)
Ejari (office lease agreement) or utility bill for your business location
Bank statement from your personal or parent company, showing the source of income.
Your complete business plan stating your business activities, expected turn owner, and market demand.
Non-residents can also open bank accounts in the UAE, but they need to assign a local dedicated manager to manage their account.
The Best UAE Banks for Corporate Bank Account Opening
Based on factors like ease of opening bank account, service fees, digital features, and incentives for startups, here are the top banks in 2025. We have provided the list of UAE banks we work with.
| Bank Name | Key Features | Best For |
| Emirates NBD | Digital onboarding, multi-currency, payroll integration, business loans | Scalable startups needing growth tools |
| Mashreq | Fully online app, real-time FX, accounting integrations (e.g., QuickBooks) | Digital-first SMEs and freelancers |
| RAKBANK | Easy online setup, free transactions up to limits, basic multi-currency | Budget-conscious micro-businesses |
| ADCB | Real-time cash management, trade finance, VAT tools | Midsize SMEs with regional operations |
| First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) | Advanced forex hedging, global transfers, dedicated advisors | Larger SMEs with international needs |
| HSBC UAE | Cross-border payments, multi-currency (USD, EUR, GBP), industry support | Businesses with global clients |
| Wio Bank | 100% digital, virtual cards, multi-currency wallets | Tech startups wanting zero-hassle setup |
| Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) | Shariah-compliant, ethical finance, digital portals | Halal-oriented businesses |
How to Open a Corporate Bank Account in Dubai
Our business consultants in Dubai advise you in finding the right bank that matches your needs – speed and viability for global operations.
Opening a bank account in Dubai requires a lot of paperwork, and our PRO services in Dubai assist you with gathering all the required documents and getting things done with accuracy.
After submitting the documents, the UAE bank will start the verification, and you can expect a pre-compliance call.
Banks will complete the KYC and review your business plan. Our team will do proper follow-up with the banks and will always keep you updated about the status of the applications.
Once everything is done, your bank account request will be approved, and the details will be shared with you via email or post.
You can activate your bank account and set up online banking for a simplified experience.
The entire process for corporate bank account opening will take almost 4-5days, depending on the accuracy of the documents you provide, the banks you choose, and your business activity.
Get Started with Your Bank Account Opening
Opening a bank account in the UAE doesn’t have to be complicated. By picking a bank that fits your startup’s needs, you’ll be set for success. For more information and assistance with corporate bank account opening in Dubai, contact Dahhan Business Services. The team of business setup consultants and PRO specialists can help you with every aspect of the business setup in Dubai.
