01
Assessment
We review your activity, operating model, expected annual turnover and the funds available at opening, and recommend the bank that best fits.
Essential Service
Corporate bank account.
Opening an account in the UAE is a careful process because of central bank compliance rules. Choosing the right bank is the single decision that most speeds it up.
Must know
In-person application: you are expected to attend to meet the bank representative, sign the form and submit the documents.
Remote application: if you are outside the UAE you can start online, though a call or video meeting is still required. After approval, you will be expected to travel to the UAE to sign.
Timing: standard processing can take 25 working days or more, depending on the complexity of the file.
What we do
02
Documents
We collect what the bank requires and assemble the file in the form the bank expects.
03
Liaison
We handle communication with the bank on further information requests and, where needed, represent you at the verification meeting.
Documents usually required
- Certified incorporation documents
- Company profile — what you do and who you work with
- Valid passport copies for all shareholders
- CVs for all shareholders
- Six months of personal bank statements for all shareholders
- Emirates ID and residence visa copy for at least the signatory
- A copy of the tenancy registration (Ejari)
Why so thorough?
UAE banks are subject to international anti-money-laundering and know-your-customer rules. The bank wants to understand that your business is real, where your funds come from, and what the commercial logic is. If your file answers those questions up front, the process is shorter; if it doesn't, it stretches out over rounds of further questions.
So we build the file as a document that explains your business, not as a stack of paper.
Which account type?
To do business you need a corporate account; trading through a personal account is not permitted. Corporate accounts are generally opened as current accounts, because that is what handles high transaction volumes.
Rate
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Corporate account opening — in-person application | AED 3,150 |
Account opening charges and minimum balance requirements levied by the bank are not included and vary between banks.
All fees are inclusive of 5% VAT.
Prices are indicative. Official fees and free zone tariffs change during the year; the exact figure is confirmed in writing in your quote.
Which bank suits you?
Tell us your activity and expected turnover; we'll assess where you have the strongest chance of acceptance.