How to open a salary account
These bank accounts have different requirements and benefits, so it’s a good idea to spend a bit of time researching your options before opening an account.
Moving to the UAE? See our handy checklist of what you may need to do before moving.
What is a salary account?
A salary account is a current account your employer will use to deposit your monthly paycheque. You need to have this set up before you can get paid. It can also be used for your day-to-day banking needs.
The account will normally come with a debit card and access to online and mobile banking. It may offer features like discounted bank fees and free ATM withdrawals. You can also apply for a credit card once you’ve opened a current account. It’s best to shop around for the best deals to suit your needs, and in most cases, you can open a salary account online.
The main requirement of a salary account is that you must have your salary deposited into the account every month or maintain a minimum balance or relationship balance. You could face additional fees if you don’t.
Can you open a UAE bank account without a minimum salary?
While most salary accounts have a minimum monthly income or relationship balance requirement, you can open a regular current account with no salary prerequisite. These accounts have fewer perks but also lower fees.
A Personal Banking Account offers our lowest eligibility criteria for a single account and also has the lowest fees if you don't meet them. See our Schedule of Services and Tariffs for details.
If you’re not working but your partner or a family member is, you can consider opening a joint account. This can help you manage your shared finances.
Find out more: How to open a joint current account
What you need
Salary account opening procedures are fairly straightforward. You can apply through the mobile banking app and provide the necessary documents. If they’re in order, you can open the account there and then. Here’s what you need:
UAE residents
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Physical Emirates ID
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Physical passport (with UAE residency visa, if applicable)
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Proof of income, such as a salary certificate or bank statement dated within the last 3 months
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Business owners must provide the company's last 3 months' bank statements
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Proof of UAE residence address, such as a utility bill, tenancy contract, Ejari number, title deed or letter from your employer
New to the UAE
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Physical passport
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Proof of employment and income, such as employment contract, salary certificate, bank statement dated within the last 3 months
For your employer
To be able to pay you your salary, your employer needs:
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Your 23-character IBAN (International Bank Account Number)
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Your BIC/SWIFT number – in the UAE it’s usually 8-11 characters
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You may need to provide other personal information, depending on the employer
Credit score
Banks generally analyse your credit score and credit history before you can open a current account or financial product, so it’s a good idea to check yours. Make sure your credit report is updated and accurate.
You can check your credit score and credit report on the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) website.
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