How to Open Fab Bank Business Account
Need a business bank account in the UAE? First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) is the largest bank in the country and offers several business accounts for startups, SMEs and established companies, in both mainland and free zones.
This guide covers the FAB Bank business account opening requirements, the account types and their minimum balance, the documents you need and tips to get approved faster.
Fab Bank Business Account Apply
Opening an FAB bank account for a UAE Business is very easy. Here are the steps to follow:
- Go to the official website of FAB
- Search and click on the option named “Accounts”
- You will be able to see the multiple options
- Click on the option named the “Business” account option
- Now follow the steps to open the FAB Business account and submit your application
Note: After you apply, a FAB relationship manager contacts you to collect documents and complete the KYC checks. Once everything is approved, the account is usually opened within a few business days, although companies with complex ownership can take longer.
Fab bank Business account opening requirements in UAE
Unlike a personal account that you can open a FAB bank account for online in minutes, a business account needs company documents and KYC checks. You will need:
- A valid UAE trade licence (mainland or free zone)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA/AoA)
- Board resolution or power of attorney naming the authorised signatories
- Passport, UAE visa and Emirates ID of every shareholder and signatory
- At least one authorised signatory who is a UAE resident
- Proof of business address, such as a tenancy contract or Ejari
- Company profile and expected monthly transactions (often asked for new companies)
FAB Business Account Types and Minimum Balance
FAB sets a minimum monthly average balance for each business account. Choose the tier that matches the cash your company normally keeps in the bank:
| Account | Minimum monthly average balance |
|---|---|
| Business Basic Account | AED 50,000 |
| Business Advantage Account | AED 250,000 |
| Business Preferred Account | AED 500,000 |
| Merchant Account | AED 10,000 |
| Business Call Account | AED 10,000 |
If the average balance falls below the required amount, FAB charges a monthly fall-below fee. Check the latest figures on FAB’s business fees and charges page before you apply.
Tips to Avoid Rejection
- Make sure the activity on your trade licence matches the business you actually run.
- Keep ownership documents clear, including details of the ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs).
- Be ready to explain where your money comes from and which countries you will trade with.
- Give realistic monthly turnover figures that match your business size.
- Respond quickly when the relationship manager asks for extra documents.
Why Open a FAB Business Account in UAE?
A dedicated business bank account in UAE is essential if you run a company. Here is why many owners choose a FAB Bank business account:
- Receive and send payments locally and internationally in multiple currencies.
- Keep company money separate from personal money, which you need for VAT, corporate tax records and audits.
- Several account tiers, from the Business Basic Account (AED 50,000 average balance) to the Business Preferred Account (AED 500,000), so you can pick one that fits your cash flow.
- Start the application online and complete it with a dedicated relationship manager.
- Access to business loans, trade finance and online banking through the FAB Business Portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee if I don’t maintain the minimum balance?
Yes. If the average balance in a Business Basic Account falls below AED 50,000, FAB charges a fall-below fee of about AED 100. Higher tiers have their own fees, so check the current FAB business fees and charges.
Does the FAB account also offer the ATM and checkbook for the Business bank account?
Yes. FAB business accounts come with chequebooks and business debit cards. The Business Advantage and Business Preferred accounts include unlimited free chequebooks.
Can I get loans by using the FAB Business bank account?
Yes. Business account holders can apply for FAB business loans and trade finance, subject to the bank’s credit checks and the company’s financial history.
How long does it take to open a FAB business account?
It usually takes from a few business days to a few weeks. The time depends mostly on how quickly the KYC and compliance checks are completed.
How can I contact FAB about a business account?
Call FAB Commercial Banking on 600 52 2235 in the UAE or +971 2 499 6700 from abroad, or email CMB-ClientServices@bankfab.com.
Final Verdict
A FAB business account suits UAE companies that want a large local bank with strong international payment services. Pick the tier that matches the balance you can keep, prepare your trade licence, MoA and shareholder documents in advance, and be ready for the KYC checks. Startups that cannot keep AED 50,000 in the bank may want to compare digital business accounts with lower or no minimum balance.
