For many Indian entrepreneurs and investors, Dubai and the wider UAE have become a natural extension of their business journey. With its tax-friendly policies, global connectivity, and thriving economy, it’s no surprise that more and more Indians are setting up companies or expanding their investments here. But to truly operate with ease in the UAE, having a reliable local bank account is a must.
Emirates NBD is often the top choice for them. It’s one of the largest and most trusted banks in the region, with services designed to meet the needs of both individuals and businesses.
Emirates NBD is especially popular among expats because of its strong reputation, easy digital banking, wide branch and ATM network, and flexible account options. It offers a wide range of accounts, whether you need a personal account to manage your salary and savings, or a business account to grow your company, you’ll find a solution that fits.v
So, here’s how to open an Emirate NBD bank account step by step.
Why Choose Emirates NBD?
When it comes to banking in the UAE, Emirates NBD is often the first choice for Indian entrepreneurs and investors. Here’s why:
1. Strong Reputation & Reliability
Emirates NBD is one of the largest and most trusted banks in the Middle East. For Indians looking to establish themselves in Dubai or the UAE, partnering with a bank that has a solid reputation gives confidence and credibility.
2. Business-Friendly Banking
Doesn’t matter if you’re setting up a startup, expanding your existing company, or managing large investments, Emirates NBD offers dedicated SME and corporate banking solutions. From current accounts to trade finance, you’ll find services tailored to your business needs.
3. Easy Remittances to India
For many Indian professionals and business owners, sending money back home is a regular need. Emirates NBD makes this seamless with fast, secure, and cost-effective remittance services to Indian banks, often with preferential exchange rates.
4. Digital Banking Convenience
With Emirates NBD’s award-winning mobile app and online banking, you can open accounts, transfer money, and manage your business finances anytime, anywhere, something every busy entrepreneur values.
5. Dedicated Relationship Managers
For priority and business banking clients, Emirates NBD provides personal relationship managers who understand the needs of entrepreneurs and investors, helping you get tailored financial advice.
6. Support for New Businesses
If you’re just starting out, Emirates NBD has specialised SME packages with low minimum balance requirements, easy online tools, and support services designed to help new businesses succeed.
Types of Emirates NBD Accounts
Emirates NBD offers a wide range of accounts to suit different needs – For individuals managing salary, a professional saving for the future, or an entrepreneur running a business. Here are the main options:
1. Personal Accounts
These accounts are designed for individuals, whether you’re living and working in the UAE or just need a reliable way to save and manage your money.
- Current Account: The account is ideal for everyday banking and salary transfers. Comes with a chequebook and debit card.
- Savings Account: The account is perfect if you want to earn interest while keeping your money accessible. Options include standard savings and special “goal-based” savings accounts.
- Salary Account: This type of account is designed for employees whose salaries are transferred directly to Emirates NBD. Often comes with added benefits like credit card offers and loan eligibility.
2. Business Accounts
For entrepreneurs, SMEs, and large corporations, Emirates NBD provides dedicated business banking solutions to help manage operations smoothly.
- SME Accounts: Tailored for small and medium-sized businesses, with features like online payroll services, business debit cards, and easy access to working capital.
- Corporate Accounts: Designed for larger companies and investors, offering trade finance, multi-currency facilities, and dedicated relationship management.
3. Islamic Banking Accounts
For customers who prefer Shariah-compliant banking, Emirates NBD offers Islamic accounts through its subsidiary, Emirates Islamic.
- Available as current, savings, and investment accounts.
- Based on Islamic finance principles (no interest, profit-sharing model).
- Provides options for both personal and business clients.
- Comes with access to the same digital and branch network as regular accounts.
4. Priority & Private Banking Accounts
For high-net-worth individuals and investors, Emirates NBD provides Priority Banking and Private Banking services, which include personalised wealth management, investment advice, and exclusive lifestyle benefits.
We help Indian businesses open Emirates NBD accounts — 90%+ approval rate, guided end-to-end
Eligibility Criteria to Open an Emirate NBD Bank Account
Before applying for an Emirates NBD account, it’s essential to know if you meet the basic eligibility requirements. These may vary slightly depending on the type of account you choose (personal, salary, savings, or business). Here’s a breakdown:
1. For Personal Accounts (Residents)
- Age: Minimum 18 years old.
- Residency: Must hold a valid UAE residence visa.
- Employment: For salary/current accounts, applicants should have a steady income (minimum salary requirement is usually AED 5,000 or more, depending on the account).
- Identification: Must have a valid Emirates ID and passport.
2. For Personal Accounts (Non-Residents)
- Age: Minimum 18 years old.
- Residency: Non-residents can open savings accounts (but usually not current/chequebook accounts).
- Requirements: Passport with a valid UAE entry stamp, proof of address in the home country, and a bank reference letter.
Note: Non-resident accounts may have higher minimum balance requirements.
3. For Salary Accounts
- Must be employed in the UAE.
- The Employer should transfer salary directly to Emirates NBD.
- Minimum monthly salary requirement (generally AED 5,000, though this can vary).
- Age: 18 years and above.
4. For Business/Corporate Accounts
- Company Setup: Must hold a valid UAE trade license.
- Legal Documents: Memorandum of Association (MOA), shareholder details, and company incorporation documents.
- Owners/Signatories: All partners, shareholders, and authorised signatories must provide valid passports, Emirates IDs, and visa copies.
- Minimum Balance: Business accounts often require maintaining a higher minimum balance compared to personal accounts.
5. For Priority/Private Banking
Priority Banking typically requires a higher income (e.g., AED 15,000+ monthly salary) or maintaining a set minimum deposit (e.g., AED 350,000 or more in savings/investments). Private Banking is tailored for high-net-worth individuals and usually requires multi-million-dirham deposits or investments.
Documents Required to Open an Emirates NBD Account
To open an Emirates NBD bank account, you’ll need to provide certain documents to verify your identity, residency, and eligibility. Here’s what you need:
For UAE Residents (Personal/Salary Accounts):
- Valid Emirates ID
- Passport copy (with residence visa page)
- Proof of address in UAE (utility bill, tenancy contract, or Ejari)
- Salary certificate or employment letter (for salary/current accounts)
For Non-Residents (Personal Accounts):
- Valid passport (with latest UAE entry stamp)
- Proof of address in home country (utility bill, driving license, etc.)
- Bank reference letter from a bank in your home country or internationally
- Additional documents if requested by the bank (depending on nationality or purpose of account)
For Business/Corporate Accounts:
- Valid UAE Trade License
- Certificate of Incorporation (if applicable)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Articles of Association
- Shareholder/Partner documents (passport copies, Emirates IDs, visa pages)
- Board resolution (if required, for corporate account opening)
- Company office address proof (Ejari, lease agreement, or utility bill)
How to Open an Emirates NBD Account
Opening an account with Emirates NBD is a straightforward process, but it helps to know exactly what to expect. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Account
Decide whether you need a personal account (for everyday banking or salary), a savings account, or a business/corporate account (for company operations). For Indian entrepreneurs, a business account is best if you’re setting up a company in Dubai or investing, while a personal current/savings account works well for handling day-to-day expenses.
Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements
Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for the account type.
- For residents: Emirates ID, UAE residence visa, and minimum salary (usually AED 5,000+).
- For non-residents: Valid passport, UAE entry stamp, proof of address in India, and a bank reference letter.
- For businesses: Trade license, MOA, shareholder documents.
Step 3: Gather the Required Documents
Prepare all the necessary paperwork (passport, Emirates ID, visa, trade license, proof of address, etc.). Carry both originals and copies, as the bank will verify them.
Step 4: Apply Online or Visit a Branch
- Online: Emirates NBD allows you to start your application on their website or mobile app by filling in basic details and uploading documents.
- In-branch: Visit your nearest Emirates NBD branch in Dubai or across the UAE to submit your application.
Step 5: Verification and Due Diligence
Once your application is submitted, the bank will begin a thorough compliance check. This is standard procedure to comply with “Know Your Customer” (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. During this phase, the bank will verify all the documents and information you provided.
Step 6: Account Approval and Activation
Once your application is approved, the account will be activated. This usually takes a few working days (longer for corporate accounts if extra approvals are needed).
After activation, you’ll get your Debit card (for personal accounts), Chequebook (for current/business accounts), and Online banking access (via Emirates NBD’s app and website).
Step 7: Start Banking
You can now transfer money, send remittances to India, manage your company’s payments, or invest globally using your new Emirates NBD account.
How to Open an Emirates NBD Account Online?
One of the biggest advantages of banking with Emirates NBD is that you don’t always need to visit a branch. You can start the process right from your laptop or smartphone. Here’s how:
1. Visit the Emirates NBD Website or Mobile App
Go to the official Emirates NBD website(https://www.emiratesnbd.com/en) or download the Emirates NBD Mobile Banking App. Select the option to “Open an Account”.
2. Choose Your Account Type
Decide whether you want a Current Account, Savings Account, Salary Account, or Business Account. The platform will guide you through the account options and benefits.
3. Fill in Your Personal or Business Details
Enter your name, nationality, mobile number, email, and other required details. If it’s a business account, you’ll also need to provide company information (trade license, shareholder details, etc.).
4. Upload Your Documents
Scan and upload the required documents (passport, Emirates ID, visa, salary certificate, trade license, etc., depending on your account type). Ensure documents are clear and valid to avoid delays.
5. Verification Call or Email
Once submitted, a bank representative may contact you for additional verification or to confirm details. For business accounts, they may also ask for information about your company’s activities.
6. Account Approval & Activation
After the review, your account will be approved. You’ll get login credentials for online banking, and your debit card and chequebook (if applicable) will be delivered to your registered address.
Pro Tip for Indian Entrepreneurs & Investors: Opening an Emirates NBD account online is convenient, but if you’re setting up a business account, it’s often easier to work with a banking advisor or a business setup consultant like Shuraa India to handle documentation and approvals smoothly.
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Take the Next Step Today!
Opening an Emirates NBD account is a smooth and straightforward process for an entrepreneur, an investor, or just someone looking for a safe and reliable bank in the UAE. From easy online banking to business-friendly services, it’s a smart choice for anyone planning to grow in Dubai.
Think about what you really need from a bank – daily transactions, savings, or business support, and pick the account that matches your goals. And if you want some extra help to get started, the team at Shuraa can guide you with the documents, requirements, and the full account opening process. This way, you can focus on your business while we make sure everything is set up the right way.