# Opening a personal bank account in the UAE > Banks commonly ask for your Emirates ID, a valid residence visa and your passport. Approval usually takes a few hours to a few days. - Section: Banking › Personal banking - Last updated: 2026-11-12 - Source: https://staging.nuzan.ai/en-ae/knowledge/bank-account ## What the bank asks for The documents most commonly required are your Emirates ID, a valid UAE residence visa, your passport (or family book), a salary certificate or employment letter, and, in some cases, proof of address. If you are self-employed, the bank may also ask for your trade licence and company documents. \[1] ## How to apply You can open an account with a local or an international bank operating in the UAE, at a branch or through the bank's website or mobile app. Some banks offer digital account opening, with your identity verified in the app. Approval usually takes a few hours to a few days, depending on the bank. Once the account is activated, you receive a debit card and can use online and mobile banking. \[1] Common account types are current accounts, savings accounts and business accounts. Islamic banks licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE offer accounts that comply with Shari'a. \[1] ## Minimum balance and fees Many banks require a minimum monthly balance. If your balance falls below it, a monthly fee may apply. Each bank sets its own amount, so ask before you choose. \[1] ## Who regulates banks The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) supervises and regulates the banking and insurance sector. \[1] If you have a complaint the bank does not resolve, see "Complaints about a bank or an insurer: Sanadak". \[2] ## Sources 1. UAE Government portal, "Banking in the UAE" (updated 4 September 2026): 2. UAE Government portal, "Raising complaints against financial institutions and insurance companies" (updated 4 September 2026): Arabic version: https://staging.nuzan.ai/ar-ae/knowledge/bank-account