How to Open an Emirates NBD Account in 2025

Last updated on April 8, 2025

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Opening an Emirates NBD account in 2025 is straightforward and offers a range of benefits for individuals and businesses. Whether you are a resident or a non-resident, Emirates NBD provides various account options customised to meet your banking needs.

In this guide, we’ll explain the steps to open an account, the required documentation, and the features that make Emirates NBD a preferred banking choice in the UAE.

Emirates NBD Zero Balance Account

What is a Zero Balance Account?

A zero-balance account is a hassle-free banking option that allows you to operate your account without the burden of maintaining a minimum balance. This means no penalties or restrictions if your balance drops to zero, offering you complete financial flexibility.

Emirates NBD Family Savings Account

Emirates NBD designed the Family Savings Account to simplify family finances, offering a shared yet structured way to save. With no minimum balance requirement, each family member can enjoy independent savings while staying connected under one financial umbrella.

What are the Benefits of Banking with Emirates NBD?

Below are multiple benefits of banking with Emirates NBD:

  • Variety of Accounts and Services: Savings, checking, loans, and credit cards.
  • Easy Online Banking: Manage accounts and transactions from anywhere.
  • Helpful Customer Support: Personalized assistance whenever you need it.
  • Reasonable Interest Rates: Competitive rates for savings and loans.
  • Rewards Program: Earn points and benefits on your transactions.
  • Convenient Access: Many branches and ATMs across the UAE.
  • Business Banking: Special services and products for businesses.
  • Strong Security: Advanced features to keep your money safe.
  • International Services: Support for global transactions and offshore accounts.
  • Innovative Solutions: Modern products and services to meet your needs.

Why Open an Emirates NBD Account?

Opening an Emirates NBD account offers several advantages, making it a top choice for individuals and businesses in the UAE. Here’s why you should consider it:

1. Wide Range of Accounts

Emirates NBD offers various account types to cater to different needs. Current accounts are ideal for daily banking transactions, while savings accounts provide competitive interest rates for growing your money. Salary accounts ensure hassle-free salary deposits, and fixed deposit accounts offer higher interest rates for long-term savings.

2. Digital Banking Convenience

With Emirates NBD’s mobile and online banking, you can manage transactions, pay bills, and track expenses anytime. The bank also offers secure access through Smart Pass and biometric login, along with a paperless account opening process that allows you to set up an account digitally without visiting a branch.

3. Attractive Benefits & Features

Emirates NBD provides free debit and credit cards with exclusive discounts and cashback offers. It also facilitates international transfers with competitive exchange rates and allows customers to hold and transact in multiple currencies. High-net-worth individuals can benefit from personalised banking services through Emirates NBD Private Banking.

4. Business Banking Support

For businesses, Emirates NBD offers corporate accounts tailored to startups, SMEs, and large enterprises. It also provides trade finance, business loans, and merchant services such as POS terminals, e-commerce payment solutions, and payroll management to support business growth.

5. Strong Reputation & Security

As one of the UAE’s leading banks, Emirates NBD is trusted by millions. It employs advanced security measures, including fraud protection and encrypted transactions, and is regulated by the UAE Central Bank, ensuring compliance and financial stability.

Read Also: How to Open Business Bank Account in UAE

Eligibility Criteria for Opening an Account at Emirates NBD

Age Requirement

  • Applicants must be at least 18 years old to open an account.

Income Requirements

  • Zero-Balance Accounts: No minimum income is required (e.g., Family Savings Account).
  • Salary Transfer Accounts: Requires a minimum monthly salary of AED 5,000 (approx. USD 1,361).
  • Non-Salary Transfer Accounts: Must maintain a minimum monthly average balance of AED 3,000 (approx. USD 817) unless opting for a zero-balance account.

Residency Status

  • UAE Residents: Must provide a valid Emirates ID along with standard documentation.
  • Non-Residents: Eligible to open an account by submitting additional documents such as:
  1. A utility bill (as proof of address).
  2. Recent bank statements.
  3. A reference letter from their home country’s bank.
  4. Certain accounts may require higher minimum balances for non-residents.

Instant Digital Account Opening

Open an account instantly via the Emirates NBD Mobile App with:

  • A valid UAE mobile number.
  • Emirates ID and passport.
  • Proof of income meeting the minimum salary requirement of AED 5,000 (approx. USD 1,361).

Perks of Opening an Emirates NBD Account

Having an Emirates NBD account comes with numerous perks. You can enjoy easy online and mobile banking for all your everyday tasks. With over 200 branches and 900 ATMs/CDMs across the UAE and abroad, accessing your account is convenient and hassle-free.

The bank offers exciting rewards and benefits with its debit and credit cards, including significant savings and cashback offers. You’ll also get up to 10 monthly free teller transactions and a complimentary first chequebook.

Additionally, Emirates NBD provides comprehensive wealth solutions and various insurance plans to help you secure your financial future and protect your loved ones.

Choose from the Range of Accounts

Emirates NBD offers various current and savings accounts to suit your needs and financial goals. Consider opening a checking account for daily expenses and a savings account to earn a reasonable interest rate. If you have children under 18, you can open accounts for them too.

To open your account on the same day, just ensure you bring all the required documents when applying.

How to open an Emirates NBD account?

Below are the steps that will help you open a bank account with Emirates NBD.

For New Customers

If you are a new customer, then you need to follow the steps below.

Open an Emirates NBD Account via a Mobile App:

  1. Download the Emirates NBD Mobile App
  2. Select “Open Your New Bank Account
  3. Enter Your Employment Details
  4. Tap Next and click on “Get Started”
  5. Accept the Terms & Conditions
  6. Slide to Confirm
  7. Fill in Your Personal Information and tap Continue
  8. Scan, Upload, or Capture the front and back of your Emirates ID, passport details, and a selfie, then tap Continue.
  9. Provide Your Contact Details and tap Continue
  10. Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number and email address
  11. Input Your Work Details and tap Continue
  12. Review or Edit the Card Name and Slide to Confirm
  13. Check Your Account Details, set your new password, and tap Continue
  14. Log In to your new account.

Your account will be set up, but once verification and due diligence are complete, you will be granted full access to everyday banking.

Note: Emirates NBD may request additional information in some cases and will inform you if needed.

Open an Emirates NBD Account via the Website

UAE residents over 18 who earn a minimum salary of AED 5,000 can open an account through our website. You’ll need a UAE mobile number.

  1. Click on “Apply Now” under Accounts
  2. Enter Your Personal and Employment Information
  3. Upload the Required Documents and click Submit
  4. You can expect a Callback within one working day. If all documents are in order, we’ll immediately open your account.

Note: If you’ve requested a debit card and chequebook, you’ll receive them within 3 to 5 working days after opening your account.

For Existing Customers

If you already have an account with us and wish to open an additional Savings or Current Account, you can follow the steps mentioned below:

Open an Emirates NBD Account via Mobile Banking:

  1. Log into Mobile Banking
  2. Tap on the bottom menu of the app
  3. Select “Apply for New Service” > “Account” > “Open a New Account”
  4. Choose “Current” or “Savings Account”
  5. Swipe to select the account type you want and tap “Apply for This Account”
  6. Enter the required details and tap Continue
  7. Enter your Smart Pass PIN

These steps will help you open your account. You can transfer money to it and start using Online Banking, Mobile Banking, and Emirates NBD ATMs.

Open an Emirates NBD Account via Online Banking:

  1. Log in to Online Banking
  2. Click on the navigation menu
  3. Select “Apply for New Service” > “Account” > “Open a New Account”
  4. Choose “Current” or “Savings Account”
  5. Select the type of account you want and click “Apply for This Account”
  6. Enter the required details and click Continue
  7. You will receive an authorisation request on your mobile app. Then, open your app and slide it to confirm
  8. Enter your Smart Pass PIN

You can easily open an account online, then transfer money and start using Emirates NBD’s Online Banking, Mobile Banking, and ATMs.

Account Fees and Charges

Opening a Skywards Savings Account comes with a one-time joining fee of AED 2,500; from the second year onwards, a monthly cost of AED 250 applies. There are no opening fees for other types of accounts with Emirates NBD.

However, if you do not have a payroll or company account with Emirates NBD, you must maintain a minimum average monthly balance according to your banking package. You may be charged a monthly fee if your balance falls below this amount.

Read Also: How to Open a Non-Resident Bank Account in UAE

Documents required for opening a bank account with Emirates NBD

Below are the documents needed for opening a bank account with Emirates NBD:

Documents for Individual Resident

  1. Passport and Emirates ID (or Emirates ID application if you’ve just applied)
  2. UAE Resident Visa (for non-GCC Nationals)
  3. For GCC Nationals without an Emirates ID: Provide one of the following to verify your address:
  4. A letter from your employer
  5. A utility bill (dated within the last 3 months)
  6. A tenancy contract (in your name)

For Payroll or Salary Transfer Accounts: Provide one of the following documents:

  • Your latest salary certificate
  • A copy of your appointment letter or contract
  • Your pay slip (dated within the last 3 months)
  • The last statement of an account where your salary was transferred

Documents for Individual Non-Resident

  1. Passport
  2. Proof of Employment or Self-Employment: Salary letter, employment contract, trade license, or bank statement
  3. Address Verification: One of the following documents:
  4. Utility bill (dated within the last 3 months)
  5. Bank statement (dated within the previous 3 months; online statements are acceptable)
  6. Reference letter from your bankers in your home country, confirming the length and nature of your relationship with them and your residential address (must cover at least 12 months)

Documents for the Company

  1. Commercial or Federal Registration Certificates (if applicable)
  2. Certificate of Commencement of Business (for joint stock companies)
  3. Power of Attorney (if applicable)
  4. Copies of Emirates IDs and Passports of the authorised signatories
  5. Board of Directors (BOD) Resolution: This should specify the titles and designations of officials authorised to open or operate the account, their extent of authority, and the manner of operating the account.
  6. Memorandum and Articles of Association
  7. For Public Shareholding Companies: List of names and addresses of shareholders with more than 5% of the shares.

Emirates NBD Savings Account

Are you looking to open an Emirates NBD bank account with excellent benefits? Whether you’re interested in a zero-balance account or a high-interest savings account, Emirates NBD provides flexible solutions tailored to your financial goals.

Emirates NBD Savings Account Features

  • Interest Rate: 0.20% per annum.
  • Available Currencies: AED, USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, SGD, JOD, KWD, SAR, QAR, OMR, and BHD.
  • Minimum Balance Requirement: AED 5,000 (For those looking for an Emirates NBD zero balance account, salary accounts may qualify.)
  • Free Debit Card: Provided at account opening.
  • Teller Transactions: Up to 10 monthly free transactions (varies by banking package).
  • E-Statements: Half-yearly digital statements.

Types of Emirates NBD Accounts

1. Emirates NBD Zero Balance Account

  • Designed for salary transfers.
  • No minimum balance required.
  • It comes with a free debit card and online banking access.

2. Emirates NBD Current Account

  • Suitable for businesses and individuals.
  • Emirates NBD Current Account Minimum Balance: AED 3,000 (or as per package).
  • Offers a checkbook and unlimited withdrawals.

3. Emirates NBD Salary Account Opening 

  • Emirates NBD Bank Account Opening Minimum Salary: Varies by employer category.
  • Benefits include instant salary credit, free remittances, and discounts on loans.

Emirates NBD Banking Services

  • Money Transfers: 60-second international remittances via SWIFT.
  • Bill Payments: Pay utility and telecom bills via the app.
  • Loans and Credit Facilities: Personal, auto, and home financing options.
  • Smart Pass: A secure transaction approval system for online banking.
  • ATM Access: Available at Emirates NBD branches and partner networks.
  • Priority Banking: Available for customers with balances of AED 200,000+.
  • Islamic Banking: Shari’ah-compliant banking options.

Digital Banking and Innovation

  • ENBD X App: Over 150 real-time services.
  • API Souq: Open banking platform for developers.
  • Chat Banking via WhatsApp: Get secure account assistance.
  • Zero Balance Account Opening Online UAE: Open accounts digitally without a branch visit.

If you’re looking for a reliable banking partner, Emirates NBD account opening is a seamless process with multiple benefits. Whether it’s a zero-balance account in UAE or a high-tier priority banking option, Emirates NBD has solutions customised for you!

Read Also: How to Open a Company Account in RAK Bank

How to Activate Your Emirates NBD Credit Card

Activating your Emirates NBD credit card is a quick and essential step to start using it for purchases and financial management. The bank offers multiple activation methods to ensure convenience and security.

For New Customers

As a first-time Emirates NBD cardholder, you must activate your card by contacting the bank directly. This security measure verifies your identity before first use. For quick activation, call our 24/7 customer support team.

For Existing Customers

As a returning customer, you can easily activate your new credit card through Emirates NBD’s online or mobile banking platform. This is often the quickest and most secure method.

Pro Tip: Once you receive your new card, immediately sign back for added security. Merchants may verify your signature during transactions.

For Supplementary Cardholders

If you have supplementary cardholders, ensure that Emirates NBD has their mobile numbers on file. This allows them to receive SMS transaction alerts, which enhance security but do not display the remaining balance. Once their details are updated, they will receive SMS authorisation codes for transactions.

Activating Smart Pass for Secure Transactions

Smart Pass is Emirates NBD’s digital security feature that replaces traditional SMS-based OTPs for credit card transactions. Before enabling it, make sure your Emirates NBD mobile app is up to date:

  • Android Users: Device must run Android 8 or higher.
  • iOS Users: Device must run iOS 10.3 or higher.
  • Check the Google Play Store or Apple App Store regularly for pending updates, as outdated software may cause activation issues.

How to Enable Smart Pass

  1. Open the Emirates NBD Mobile App: If you’ve migrated to the new NBD X app, you may see a prompt to activate Smart Pass upon login.
  2. Accept Terms & Conditions: Read and agree to proceed.
  3. Verify Your Identity: Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number to confirm your identity and email.
  4. Set Up Smart Pass PIN: Create and confirm your new PIN. Activation is immediate.
  5. Secure Transactions: Once Smart Pass is enabled, you can authorise purchases using biometrics (Touch ID or Face ID) or your Smart Pass PIN, eliminating the need for SMS-based codes.

By following these steps, you can efficiently activate and secure your Emirates NBD credit card for hassle-free transactions.

Wrapping Up Your Emirates NBD Account Opening

Opening an Emirates NBD account in 2025 is easy and offers numerous benefits for individuals and businesses. Emirates NBD is for your diverse financial needs, offering various account options and convenient banking services. From user-friendly online and mobile banking to competitive interest rates and rewarding perks, the bank provides a comprehensive suite of services to enhance your banking experience.

If you need assistance setting up your business in the UAE, Shuraa is here to help. Shuraa offers expert guidance through the entire business setup process. It ensures you meet all legal requirements and smoothly integrate your financial needs with Emirates NBD’s banking services.

Whether opening a personal account or managing business finances, Shuraa can provide valuable support to make your transition to banking in the UAE as smooth as possible.

Contact us at +97144081900 or send a WhatsApp message to +971507775554. Alternatively, email us at [email protected] for prompt assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How do you open a savings account in Emirates NBD?

To open a savings account with Emirates NBD, visit their website or mobile app and select “Open a Savings Account.” Fill out the application form with your details, upload the required documents, and verify your identity.

Submit your application, and if Emirates NBD approves it, they will open your account. Your debit card and chequebook will arrive within 3 to 5 working days.

Q2. How do you open a salary account in Emirates NBD?

To open a salary account with Emirates NBD, visit their website or mobile app and select “Open a Salary Account.” Complete the application form with your personal and employment details.

Upload the necessary documents, such as your salary certificate or employment contract, and verify your identity. Once your application is submitted, your account will be set up. Your debit card will arrive within 3 to 5 working days.

Q3. How do you open a zero-balance account in Emirates NBD?

To open a zero-balance account with Emirates NBD, visit their website or mobile app and select “Open a Zero Balance Account.” Complete the online application form with your personal information, then upload the necessary documents, such as your passport and Emirates ID.

Verify your identity using an OTP sent to your mobile and email and submit your application. Once approved, your account will be set up, and your debit card will be delivered within 3 to 5 working days.

Q4. How do you open a joint account in Emirates NBD?

To open a joint account with Emirates NBD, all applicants must visit an Emirates NBD branch with the required documents. The account will be opened on the same day, allowing all joint account holders to use it immediately.

You can either open a new savings or current account and set it up as a joint account or convert an existing account to a joint one by adding additional account holders.

Q5. How do you open a business account in Emirates NBD?

To open a business account with Emirates NBD, start by visiting an Emirates NBD branch with the necessary documents, such as commercial registration certificates, a certificate of commencement of business (for joint stock companies), and a power of attorney (if applicable).
 
You must also provide copies of Emirates IDs and the passports of authorised signatories. Complete the application form and submit it along with your documents.
 
The bank will review your application and contact you for additional information. Once approved, your business account will be opened, and you’ll receive the required banking tools and services.

Q6. What is the Minimum Balance for an Emirates NBD Savings Account?

Emirates NBD offers different savings account options with varying balance requirements. The Family Savings Account allows customers to maintain a zero balance with no minimum requirement. However, to avoid penalties, a minimum balance of AED 5,000 (USD 1,361) must be maintained for other savings accounts.

Q7. How Can I Open an Emirates NBD Account Instantly Using the Mobile App?

Download the Emirates NBD app, select “Instant Account Opening,” verify your identity using your Emirates ID, and follow the on-screen steps.

Q8. What is the Minimum Salary for an Emirates NBD Account?

The Family Savings Account offers hassle-free banking without minimum salary or balance requirements. For other accounts, applicants must meet a minimum salary criterion of USD 1,361 (AED 5,000) to ensure financial reliability. Proof of income is a key part of the account opening process.

Q9. How Do I Perform an NBD Bank Balance Enquiry?

You can check your Emirates NBD bank balance using the Emirates NBD Mobile App or NBD Online Banking. Log in with your credentials; your account dashboard will display your current balance. Alternatively, you can visit an Emirates NBD ATM or call the 24/7 customer care number for balance inquiries.

Q10. Can I Open an Emirates NBD Business Account if I Run a Small Company?

Yes, Emirates NBD offers business accounts tailored for SMEs, start-ups, and large corporations. To open an account, you’ll need to provide:

1. Trade license
2. Memorandum of Association 
3. Passport copies (for all signatories) 
4. Emirates ID copies (for all signatories) 

The account provides benefits like payroll management, cash flow solutions, and financing options to support business growth.

Q11. How Do I Open an Emirates NBD Current Account if I Am Not a Salaried Employee?

If you are self-employed or a freelancer, you can open an Emirates NBD current account by visiting a branch. You may need to submit:

1. Trade license (if applicable) 
2. Proof of self-employment or business activity 
3. Other supporting financial documents 

Emirates NBD will verify your identity and financial details before approving the account.

*Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations.

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