How to Open a Business Bank Account in the UAE (Corporate Account)
You open a business (corporate) bank account with a UAE bank after your company is licensed. The bank runs Know Your Customer (KYC) checks. It checks the company, its shareholders, and the people allowed to sign for it. The main documents are your trade licence, your Memorandum of Association, ID documents for the shareholders and signatories, and proof of address. Every bank has its own checklist, minimum-balance rules, and timelines. Check these with the bank before you apply.
At a glance
- Cost:
- Varies by bank (minimum-balance fees may apply)
- Total time:
- Varies by bank — corporate KYC can take longer than personal accounts
- Steps:
- 6 steps
- Where to apply:
- u.ae
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due October 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UAE sources(October 2026).
0 of 6 steps
- Before You Go Self-check
Choose a bank
Compare local and international banks that work in the UAE. Many banks let you apply online or in an app. Check the minimum balance, the fees, and the account-opening terms before you choose. They change from bank to bank and from one account type to another.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare Days
Prepare the company documents
You need your trade licence, MOA, ID documents for the shareholders and signatories, and proof of address. As part of KYC, banks also ask about your business activity, how much money you expect to move, and where your funds come from. Check the exact checklist of the bank before you submit.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay Same day
Submit the application
Apply at a branch, on the website of the bank, or in its app. Some banks let you open the account fully online, with ID checks inside the app.
Click to mark as done
- Wait Varies by bank
KYC and compliance checks
The bank completes its KYC and financial-crime checks. It checks the company, the shareholders, and the signatories. A corporate account takes longer to open than a personal account. If there is a delay, the bank must explain it to you and record the reason (CBUAE).
Click to mark as done
- Receive On approval
Account activation
Your account is activated. The bank issues your debit cards. Your online, mobile, and corporate banking access is switched on. At this point, confirm the rules for using the account. These include who can sign, and the limits on transactions.
Click to mark as done
- Receive At activation
Get your IBAN
You must have an IBAN for electronic payments and receipts. The bank must tell you your IBAN.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a business account before the trade licence is issued?
No. Your trade licence is a main requirement. The bank needs the documents of your licensed company to complete KYC.
How long does corporate onboarding take?
It changes from bank to bank. It also depends on the structure of your company. Personal accounts are usually approved within hours or a few days (u.ae). Corporate KYC takes longer. Ask the bank how long it expects to take.
Is there a minimum balance?
Many banks ask for one. They may charge a monthly fee if your balance falls below it (u.ae). The amount depends on the bank and the account. Check before you apply.
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