If you’re looking to open a bank account in Dubai or another emirate without holding UAE residency, it is possible, though certain limitations apply. To access the full range of banking benefits, obtaining a UAE residence visa is highly recommended.
✅ Initial Bank Approval
You must first obtain preliminary approval from the bank to proceed with a non-resident account application.
✅ In-Person Visit
Remote account opening is not permitted. A personal visit to a UAE bank is mandatory. Even if you’re not currently in the country, you must travel to the UAE for at least one business day to begin the process.
✅ Proof of Residency and Income
You’ll need to provide:
Recent utility bills as proof of address
Bank statements from the past 6 months to verify your financial standing
✅ Minimum Balance Requirement
Depending on the bank, your nationality, and your financial background, you may be required to:
Maintain a minimum monthly balance (commonly 100,000 AED)
Purchase banking products or services as a condition for account approval
✅ Savings Account Only
As a non-resident, you are eligible to open a savings account only. To open a current account, UAE residency is mandatory.
Before starting the account opening process, consult with a business advisor in the UAE to identify the most suitable bank based on your business profile. This step increases your chances of approval. Once the right bank is selected, obtain the bank’s preliminary approval to move forward confidently.
To open a non-resident bank account in the UAE, prepare the following documents:
Original passport
Proof of residence (such as a paid utility bill issued within the last two months)
Personal bank statements for the past six months to verify your income
For business owners: company registration documents and corporate bank statements as income proof
An up-to-date resume outlining your personal details and professional experience
Travel to the UAE and visit a branch of the selected bank in person. Ensure you have a valid entry permit before your trip. Depending on your nationality, you may be able to stay in the UAE visa-free for up to 90 days.
After the bank reviews your application and documents, you will receive your non-resident account number within one day. The debit card will be delivered to your provided address within 2 to 5 days.
No Personal Income Taxes
The UAE does not impose personal income taxes, meaning there are no taxes on salaries, investment income (such as rental income and dividends), inheritance, or gifts. However, opening a bank account in the UAE does not affect your tax residency. If you spend most of the year in another country, you remain a tax resident there. This means income received in your UAE bank account may still be subject to taxation in your home country, and you may need to report your foreign accounts to your local tax authorities.
No Reporting Requirements
Non-resident account holders in the UAE are not required to report incoming funds.
Multi-Currency Account
Non-resident savings accounts can be opened in UAE dirhams (AED), US dollars (USD), and in some cases, euros (EUR) or British pounds (GBP).
Unlimited International Transfers
The UAE imposes no currency controls, so non-residents can transfer funds internationally without restrictions, including to personal accounts abroad. Full capital repatriation is allowed, and you can receive funds from other countries, except those under UAE sanctions. Banks may check specific transactions if they appear suspicious. To avoid delays, it’s advisable to inform the bank about expected transactions in advance.
Free Debit Card
A debit card is issued with a non-resident savings account, which can be used worldwide for purchases and cash withdrawals. Daily withdrawal limits typically apply, around 15,000 AED. Account management is done via free online banking.
Currency Requirements
All debit cards in the UAE are issued in dirhams (AED), as foreign currency bank cards do not exist. To deposit cash into your account without losses, it must be in dirhams. Banks charge a 1% fee for withdrawing or depositing any foreign currency.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Account opening fee | 0 AED |
| Minimum balance requirement | 100,000 AED |
| Account maintenance fee | 0 AED |
Prices are for reference only and do not constitute an official offer. Agency fees are not included.
Longer Account Opening Process
The account opening process for non-residents can take longer. The bank may request additional documents to assess the applicant’s background, which can extend the timeline.
Limited Financial Services
Non-residents are not eligible for certain banking services, such as loans, checkbooks, or overdrafts. The services available to non-residents are more limited compared to residents.
Limited Bank Options
Not all banks offer favorable conditions for opening non-resident accounts, and the options for non-residents may be more restricted.
No Credit Cards
Non-residents are not eligible for credit cards. However, a credit card can be issued if a fixed deposit is made to cover the credit limit.
No Online Account Opening for Non-Residents
Non-residents cannot open bank accounts online and must visit the UAE in person to complete the account opening process.
Eligibility for Non-Residents
Citizens from most countries can apply for a non-resident account in the UAE, except for nationals from countries banned or sanctioned by the UAE, such as:
Iran
Israel
North Korea
Banking Services Available to Non-Residents
Non-residents can open a savings account, but they are not eligible for current accounts, which require a residence visa. Opening a non-resident account can be more challenging, as it involves:
A more extensive compliance procedure, requiring a larger package of supporting documents.
Potentially higher deposit or balance requirements and the purchase of bank products, depending on the bank, the client’s nationality, and their profile.
Limitations on banking services like credit cards.
Non-residents will also have access to fewer banking services compared to residents.
Debit Cards
Non-residents are issued a debit card for their savings account, which can be used worldwide with a daily withdrawal limit of approximately 15,000 dirhams. Account management is available through online banking at no charge.
Currency Requirements
Debit cards are issued in dirhams (AED), as foreign currency cards are not available. Cash deposits or withdrawals in foreign currency are subject to a 1% fee.
Checkbooks
A checkbook is not provided for savings accounts. While checkbooks are necessary for certain transactions (such as paying rent and utilities), they are only issued for UAE residents’ accounts.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are not available to non-residents unless a fixed deposit is made to secure the credit limit.
One of the crucial factors for successfully opening a bank account as a foreigner in the UAE is the guidance of a local business expert. A specialist will assess your unique situation and provide tailored solutions based on your financial goals, capabilities, and a thorough understanding of the UAE banking system and regulations.
During a free consultation, you will learn:
Whether you are eligible to open a personal bank account in Dubai
Whether it’s possible to open an international bank account online
How to obtain a bank card in Dubai as a non-resident
In addition, the specialist will assist you in submitting the necessary documents for the bank’s initial approval.
The brand name Visa Kings Global is used under licence by Visa Success Limited. Visa Success Limited is not a firm of solicitors and is not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Visa Success Limited does not give financial, legal or tax advice.
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