FAB (NBAD) Online Account Opening 2026 – Complete Guide to Bank Accounts in the UAE
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), formerly known as NBAD, makes it quick and easy to open a bank account in the UAE, including savings accounts, multi-currency current accounts, and Sharia-compliant Islamic banking options
You can apply in person at FAB branches across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, or open your account online through the FAB website or FAB Mobile App by uploading your Emirates ID, proof of address, and salary details for quick account setup.
Below, you’ll find detailed information on available account types, eligibility criteria, required documents, application channels, fees, processing times, and key features.
1. Account Types
Current Account (AED & Foreign Currency)
Supports multi-currency deposits with cheque book and overdraft facilities (subject to approval). Ideal for salary transfers and everyday banking needs.
Savings Account
Offers tiered interest rates of up to 1.75% per annum on AED balances. Basic accounts have no minimum balance requirement, while premium tiers require a minimum balance of AED 3,000 or more.
Premium Savings Account
Provides higher interest rates of up to 2.5% per annum on balances above AED 50,000. Includes a free debit card and unlimited local transfers.
Fixed Deposit Account
Available with tenures ranging from 1 to 24 months, offering interest rates between 3% and 4.5% per annum. Features include auto-renewal and partial withdrawal options.
Islamic Accounts (Murabaha & Mudaraba)
Sharia-compliant savings and investment accounts based on profit-sharing principles instead of interest.
Student & Youth Account
Designed for young customers, offering no minimum balance, free ATM withdrawals, and exclusive youth-focused benefits.
Senior Citizen Account
Includes preferential profit rates, fee waivers, and access to a dedicated customer support line.
Business Account
Tailored current and savings accounts for SMEs and corporate clients, with integrated trade finance and business banking solutions.
2. Eligibility Criteria
Personal Accounts
Applicants must be 18 years or older (youth accounts available from age 15) and hold a valid Emirates ID for residents or a passport with a valid visa page for expatriates.
Islamic Accounts
Eligibility mirrors personal accounts, with the additional requirement of signing a Sharia compliance declaration.
Business Accounts
Require a valid trade license, Memorandum of Association, board resolution, and Emirates ID and passport copies of company directors
3. Required Documents
| Document | Residents | Non-Residents | Business Accounts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates ID | Copy (front and back) | Not required | Director’s Emirates ID copy |
| Passport | Copy of photo and visa pages | Copy of photo page and entry stamp | Director’s passport copy |
| Proof of Address | Utility bill or tenancy contract | Utility bill or bank statement | Proof of registered company address |
| Salary Certificate / Payslip | Latest 1–3 months | Not required | Not required |
| Trade License & Company Documents | Not required | Not required | Trade license, Memorandum of Association (MOA), and board resolution |
| Signature Card | Signed in branch | Signed in branch | Signed in branch |
4. Account Opening Channels
Branch Visit
Apply through a walk-in visit or by booking an appointment via 600 52 5500. Complete the application, submit the required documents, and sign the necessary forms at the branch.
Online via FAB Website
Choose “Open Account” under Personal Banking. Enter your personal details, upload scanned documents, and complete e-signature verification. Account activation is typically completed within 24–48 hours.
FAB Mobile App
Navigate to Accounts → Open New Account, capture your Emirates ID using your phone camera, and complete the KYC questions. A provisional account is issued instantly and finalized after document verification.
Relationship Manager (Premium / Private Banking)
A dedicated relationship manager can visit your home or office, collect the required documents, and submit the application on your behalf.
5. Fees & Minimum Balances
| Account Type | Minimum Balance | Monthly Fee | Waiver Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Savings Account | AED 0 | AED 10 if balance falls below AED 3,000 | Fee waived with any salary credit |
| Premium Savings Account | AED 50,000 | Nil | Not applicable |
| Current Account (AED) | AED 3,000 | AED 25 | Waived with an average balance of AED 10,000 or more |
| Fixed Deposit Account | AED 5,000 | Nil | Not applicable |
| Islamic Savings Account | AED 1,000 | AED 10 | Waived if monthly profit is AED 100 or higher |
| Student & Youth Account | AED 0 | Nil | Not applicable |
| Senior Citizen Account | AED 0 | Nil | Not applicable |
| Business Account (SME) | AED 10,000 | AED 50 | Waived with an average balance of AED 100,000 or more |
6. Processing Times
- Branch Applications: Typically completed within 1–2 business days
- Online & Mobile Applications: Account is created instantly, with KYC verification finalized within 24–48 hours
- Debit Card Delivery: Issued within 3–5 business days for home delivery
- Chequebook Issuance: Processed within 5–7 business days
- Internet & Mobile Banking Access: Activated within 24 hours of account approval
7. Key Features & Benefits
- Multi-Currency Banking: Manage AED, USD, GBP, and EUR under a single account profile
- Contactless Debit Cards: Available in both Visa and Mastercard variants
- e-Statements & Transaction Alerts: Real-time SMS and email notifications for all account activity
- Instant Fund Transfers: 24/7 transfers within FAB and fast UAE interbank transfers via UAEFTS
- Premium Banking Advantages: Dedicated relationship manager, access to exclusive lounges, and personalized investment advisory
- Advanced Digital Security: Two-factor authentication and biometric login for enhanced protection
- Seamless Integrations: Compatible with Payit wallet, e-Dirham payments, and Ratibi card top-ups
8. Common Customer Queries
Can I open an account without a salary certificate?
Yes. Basic savings and youth accounts can be opened without proof of salary. However, a salary certificate is required to qualify for fee waivers on certain accounts.
Are there any account opening bonuses or promotions?
FAB periodically offers promotions such as welcome gifts, fee waivers, or enhanced interest rates on fixed deposits, subject to terms and availability.
Is it possible to open a joint account?
Yes. Joint accounts are available for savings and current accounts, with options for joint signatory or either-or operation.
What is the minimum age requirement for a youth account?
The minimum age is 15 years, and the account must be opened with a guardian’s Emirates ID and signature.
How can I convert my account to an Islamic account?
You can request a conversion by completing a Sharia compliance form at a branch or through the FAB Mobile App. Profit-sharing structures will replace interest-based features.
9. Compliance & Regulatory Notes
- Central Bank of the UAE Compliance: All accounts are subject to KYC, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks, and FATCA/CRS declarations.
- Data Protection: Customer information is encrypted and securely stored in accordance with UAE data protection and privacy regulations.
- Dispute Resolution: Customer complaints can be raised through FAB Customer Care or escalated via the Central Bank of the UAE’s Sanadak platform.