List of Top 8 Banks in UAE in 2025

Top Best Banks in UAE (2025)

What makes a bank the right choice for you? Choosing the right bank is more than just opening an account; it shapes how you manage, grow, and protect your money. From the quality of services to how effectively your concerns are addressed, your bank plays a key role in your financial journey.

Many top banks in the UAE go beyond these basic services. They combine excellent customer service with solutions tailored to your needs. Here is a list of banks in the UAE that are considered the absolute best in the industry.

Emirates NBD

Emirates NBD consistently takes the prize as the best bank in the UAE, having been inaugurated in 2007 following a merger between the National Bank of Dubai (NBD) and Emirates Bank International (EBI). 

Both businesses and individuals choose this bank for a variety of reasons, including its highly tailored banking solutions and customer service, which is available 24/7. Emirates NBD’s online banking services are second to none as they have been designed to ensure efficiency and convenience for customers. 

Some factors that make Emirates NBD one of the most preferred banks in the UAE include:

• A sophisticated digital banking system for customers 

• A wide range of accounts, cards, loans, and business bank account options 

• Seamless, quick account setup 

• Options for multi-currency accounts 

First Abu Dhabi Bank 

First Abu Dhabi Bank is not only the biggest bank in the country, but also considered one of the best banks in the UAE. The First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) was formed as a merger between the First Gulf Bank and the National Bank of Abu Dhabi in 2017. As the name suggests, it is headquartered in Abu Dhabi, but has branches across the UAE. 

Predominantly known for its efficient handling of business accounts, FAB has multiple options for both individuals and companies. While individuals can have several accounts, such as a savings account, a current account, and an exclusive FAB One Account, businesses avail of a range of services, including company cards, loans, working capital, trade, cash management, FX solutions, and more. 

FAB’s wide range of banking services includes:

• Personalised account management 

• Flexible financing options for companies 

• Competitive interest rates 

Mashreq Bank 

Of all the banks in the UAE, Mashreq Bank is one of the oldest private banks in the country, dating back to 1967, with its headquarters in Dubai and branches in countries such as the UK. It is highly popular with individuals wanting a steady savings account, and offers a wide range of services for both individuals and companies. 

What makes Mashreq a popular bank is its unique services and programs, such as the Mashreq Millionaire, which gives account holders the opportunity to increase their wealth while relying on the bank’s credibility. Other services and solutions provided by Mashreq Bank are:

• Accounts, cards, trade, and merchant solutions 

• Forex and money transfer 

• Investments 

• International banking services 

Dubai Islamic Bank

This Islamic bank often features on the list of banks in the UAE that customers frequently choose. Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) has been created specifically with the foundation of Islamic principles in mind.

What sets DIB apart is the kinds of services it provides, such as:

• Sharia-compliant savings accounts 

• Islamic mortgages

• Choices between an Al Islami Current Account and a Johara Current Account for personal use 

Additionally, DIB is extremely popular amongst expats, as it has various services that help them manage their finances in a hassle-free manner, also awarding them with exclusive perks, fee waivers, and competitive rates. 

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank 

One of the top banks in the UAE, the Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, more commonly referred to as ADCB, provides exceptional service to all its customers while consistently providing new and updated banking solutions. ADCB’s wide customer base includes individuals and a variety of businesses as well. 

Formed all the way back in 1985, ADCB offers its services across the UAE while being headquartered in, you guessed it, Abu Dhabi! Its range of user-friendly and customer-first services includes:

• Real-time monitoring, with money transfers, and investment tracking 

• Retail, commercial, Islamic, and private banking options

• Personalised investment tools based on your financial status 

RAK Bank

RAK Bank, also known as the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah, is one of the UAE’s oldest and most established banks, having been founded in 1976.

Both individuals and businesses prefer RAK Bank for various reasons, including its comprehensive range of personal, business, and wholesale banking services, as well as its innovative digital banking solutions that ensure convenience and efficiency.

Some factors that make RAK Bank a preferred bank in the UAE include:

• A strong Sharia-compliant banking unit, RAKislamic

• Access to a wide network of 20 branches across the UAE

• Seamless and secure account management with quick onboarding processes

Commercial Bank Of Dubai

Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD) has been a key player in the UAE’s banking sector for over 50 years, offering innovative and bespoke personal and business banking services.

Both individuals and corporates prefer CBD for various reasons, including its strong financial base, modern digital channels, and commitment to tailored banking solutions that meet the needs of both conventional and Shari’ah-compliant customers.

Some factors that make CBD one of the most trusted banks in the UAE include:

• A progressive approach to corporate governance and sustainability

• Comprehensive services available through an extensive branch and ATM network

• Innovative and tailored solutions for both retail and corporate clients

HSBC

HSBC has established itself as a leading international bank in the UAE, offering a comprehensive range of personal, business, and corporate banking solutions.

Some factors that make HSBC one of the most preferred banks in the UAE include:

• Global banking network providing seamless international transactions and access to markets worldwide

• Advanced digital banking platforms for effortless online and mobile banking experiences

• Wide selection of accounts, cards, loans, and business banking options tailored to meet diverse customer needs

• Expert advisory services for personal wealth management and corporate finance

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bank in the UAE

Having gone through the list of banks in the UAE, let us proceed to understanding what factors you must consider before choosing a UAE bank.

Bear in mind that the UAE bank you choose will have a profound impact on your financial journey going forward, from minor things such as a user-friendly phone interface to long-term loans and payout policies. 

So while you may be aware of the top banks in the UAE, consider the following factors before selecting one:

• Accessibility: This is a rather underrated but important factor. How easy is it to access the services, ATMs, or even physical locations of this particular bank? The more popular it is, the likelier that it has a wider presence across the UAE and maybe even globally.

• Fees: All banks in the UAE charge fees for their services, such as maintenance, ATM transactions, and wire transfers. Make a note of the fee amount of the different banks. 

• Benefits: The best banks in the UAE will always give you value for your money, in the form of different benefits. Whether it is a fantastic rewards program or free financial planning assistance, consider this criterion while making a decision.

• Customer service: Things may go wrong with your bank account, and you must choose a bank that has a customer-centric and timely problem-solving approach. 

• Digital services: Considering that mankind continues pushing the boundaries of technology, a UAE bank that provides smooth and easy-to-understand digital services should be on your radar. 

How to Open a Bank Account in the UAE

Opening a bank account in the UAE is a very simple and straightforward process. Here are some steps you can follow to ensure a quick and efficient bank account sign-up in the UAE:

1. Decide on an account: Banks in the UAE offer various types of accounts for users. With a little research and consulting with banks, decide on an account that best suits your financial requirements in the UAE. 

2. Choose a bank: Found your pick of the top banks in the UAE? Perfect! To make the right decision, do some research, talk to people, search for testimonials, and review each bank’s policies and services. 

3. Documents: Collating and providing the right documents is extremely important as they must not only be correct, but also updated and valid. Here are some of the documents that banks could ask you for, although these will vary depending on the bank and account applied for:

   1. Passport 

   2. Emirates ID 

   3. Salary certificate 

   4. Proof of address 

   5. Visa page

4. Apply: When you apply, you can either do so online or visit one of the bank’s branches. For first-time account openers, it is suggested to schedule an in-person application appointment. 

5. Deposit: Once you have submitted your documents and the application form, you must make an initial deposit to activate your account. The minimum required amount differs from bank to bank. 

Conclusion

Choosing the right bank in the UAE is essential for managing your wealth, planning your future, and accessing the best banking services. The UAE offers a robust and dynamic banking sector, with options suited to both individuals and businesses. From advanced digital platforms to personalised solutions and Sharia-compliant offerings, UAE's top banks continue to innovate and provide exceptional services.

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