Top 10 Banks in the UAE: Your Guide for 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a leading financial hub in the Middle East, with 20 national banks (commercial & islamic) and 28 foreign banks catering to a diverse range of customers, including residents, expatriates, and businesses. The country's banking sector is characterized by its mix of conventional banks and Islamic financial institutions, offering a wide variety of banking products tailored to different needs.

Given the high demand for digital banking, expat-friendly financial services, and Shariah-compliant banking, this guide provides an in-depth analysis of the top banks in the UAE.

Overview of banks in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) boasts a robust and diverse banking sector, comprising both national and foreign banks that cater to the financial needs of its residents, businesses, and international clients. As of the latest data, the UAE Banking Federation (UBF) includes 20 national banks (encompassing both conventional and Islamic institutions) and 28 foreign banks operating within the country.

National banks in the UAE

The national banks are categorized into conventional and Islamic banks, each offering a range of financial products and services tailored to various customer segments. 

Conventional Banks:

Islamic Banks:

Foreign banks operating in the UAE

The UAE's strategic location and business-friendly environment have attracted numerous foreign banks, enhancing the diversity and competitiveness of its financial sector.

Top 10 banks in UAE

Looking for the best place to save or grow your money in the UAE? We’ve shortlisted the top 10 banks based on savings account offerings, minimum balance requirements, digital features, and Shariah-compliant options. Whether you're a resident or an expat, this list will help you compare the most relevant banks for your personal finance goals:

Emirates NBD

Established in 1963, Emirates NBD has grown into one of the largest banking institutions in the Middle East, with operations across 13 countries and serving over 9 million customers. It is recognized for its strong digital banking offerings, premium financial products, and customer-centric banking solutions. 

Emirates NBD offers a range of savings accounts for customers who are looking for conventional savings accounts and Shari'ah compliant accounts:

Overview of Other Solutions

Emirates NBD offers a wide array of banking services beyond savings accounts, including current accounts, personal loans, credit cards, investment solutions, and digital wealth management. The bank is also known for its award-winning digital platforms like Liv. and ENBD X, designed for customers who prefer mobile-first experiences.

Emirates Islamic Bank

Founded in 2004, Emirates Islamic is a leading Islamic bank in the UAE, offering a diverse range of Shariah-compliant financial products and services. Designed to cater to different financial needs, Emirates Islamic provides banking packages that come with exclusive privileges, financial flexibility, and rewards.

Banking packages at Emirates Islamic:

Overview of Other Solutions

In addition to savings products, Emirates Islamic Bank provides a full suite of Shariah-compliant financial solutions, including current accounts, personal finance, auto finance, credit cards, and investment products aligned with Islamic principles. The bank also supports digital banking via its mobile app and online portal, making everyday transactions seamless for all users.

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) 

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) offers a Multi-Product Package designed to provide financial benefits to both UAE nationals and expatriates. This package is structured into tiers, each offering specific products and associated cash rewards:​

Additional Banking Services Offered by FAB:

FAB provides a comprehensive range of services to cater to various customer needs:​

• Personal Banking: Includes accounts, credit cards, loans, and wealth management services tailored for individual customers.​
• Corporate and Commercial Banking: Offers solutions such as business accounts, financing options, trade services, and cash management for businesses of all sizes.​
• Investment Banking: Provides advisory services, capital market solutions, and investment products to support corporate growth and investment strategies.​
• Islamic Banking: Delivers Shariah-compliant products and services, including accounts, financing, and investment options, adhering to Islamic principles.​
• Private Banking: Offers personalized wealth management services, investment strategies, and financial planning to high-net-worth individuals.

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB)

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) is a prominent financial institution in the United Arab Emirates. It offers a comprehensive range of banking products and services to individuals, businesses, and governments. With a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, ADCB provides tailored solutions to meet the diverse financial needs of its clientele.​ 

Savings accounts offered by ADCB:

Overview of Other Solutions

ADCB offers a variety of current account options to cater to different customer needs. The ADCB Current Account provides a seamless banking experience with features such as free cheque books (for AED accounts), free e-statements, and access to ADCB Personal Internet Banking and Mobile Banking services. This account is available in AED and other major currencies, offering flexibility for both local and international transactions. Additionally, ADCB's Hayyak Account allows for instant account opening with zero balance requirements, making banking more accessible to a broader audience. ​

For customers seeking Sharia-compliant solutions, ADCB provides Islamic banking options that adhere to Islamic principles, ensuring ethical and interest-free banking experiences.

Mashreq Bank

Mashreq Bank, established in 1967, is one of the leading financial institutions in the United Arab Emirates. Renowned for its innovative banking solutions, Mashreq offers a comprehensive range of products and services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its customers, including personal banking, corporate banking, and wealth management services.

Savings and current accounts offered by Mashreq Bank:

Overview of Other Solutions

Mashreq Bank's NEO platform offers a fully digital banking experience, allowing customers to open and manage accounts seamlessly through the Mashreq Mobile App. The NEO Current Account caters to everyday transactional needs, providing features such as salary cashback offers and comprehensive online banking services. For those focusing on savings, the NEO Savings Account offers competitive interest rates and easy account management, while the Easy Saver Account provides flexibility with no minimum balance requirements or monthly fees. The NEO Plus Savings Account is designed for customers aiming to maximize their savings with higher interest rates on substantial balances, encouraging disciplined saving habits.​

These accounts are tailored to meet the diverse financial needs of Mashreq's customers, offering flexibility, attractive benefits, and the convenience of digital banking.

Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB)

Established in 1975, Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) is the world's first full-service Islamic bank and a leading financial institution in the United Arab Emirates. DIB offers a comprehensive range of Sharia-compliant banking products and services, catering to the diverse needs of individuals, businesses, and corporations. 

Savings and current accounts offered by DIB:

Overview of Other Solutions

Dubai Islamic Bank's alt platform offers a comprehensive digital banking experience, providing customers with easy, convenient, and secure access to over 135 banking services through the DIB Mobile App, online banking, WhatsApp, and ATMs. This platform allows customers to open accounts digitally, manage finances, and access a wide range of services without the need to visit a branch.

The Al Islami Current Account is designed for everyday transactional needs, offering Sharia-compliant banking with features such as a widely accepted debit card and access to electronic banking services. For those focusing on savings, the Al Islami Savings Account provides attractive expected profit rates and the flexibility of multiple currencies, catering to both individuals and minors.

These accounts and digital solutions are tailored to meet the diverse financial needs of DIB's customers, offering flexibility, attractive benefits, and the convenience of digital banking.

National Bank of Fujairah (NBF)

Established in 1982, the National Bank of Fujairah (NBF) is a leading financial institution in the United Arab Emirates, offering a wide range of banking services, including corporate and commercial banking, personal banking, and Sharia-compliant solutions. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation, NBF has earned a reputation for excellence in the UAE banking sector.

Savings and current accounts offered by NBF:

NBF Max Saver Account

The National Bank of Fujairah (NBF) offers the Max Saver Account, a savings solution designed to maximize returns while providing flexibility and easy access to funds.

Overview of Other Solutions

NBF offers a variety of current and savings accounts tailored to meet the diverse needs of its customers. The Classic Current Account provides straightforward banking services with benefits such as free bank statements, debit card issuance, and access to overdraft facilities, all for a minimum monthly average balance of AED 2,500. For those looking to grow their savings, the Savings Basic Account offers high-interest yields and 24/7 access to funds, also requiring a minimum balance of AED 2,500.

These accounts are designed to provide flexibility, convenience, and attractive benefits to NBF's customers, ensuring their financial needs are met effectively.

Standard Chartered UAE

Standard Chartered is a prominent international banking group with a strong presence in the United Arab Emirates. The bank offers a wide array of financial products and services, including personal banking, corporate banking, and wealth management, catering to the diverse needs of its clientele.

Savings and current accounts offered by Standard Chartered UAE:

Overview of Other Solutions

Standard Chartered UAE offers a variety of current and savings accounts to cater to different financial needs. The Standard Current Account provides unlimited transactions, a free initial cheque book, and 24/7 access through a globally recognized debit card. For clients seeking Shariah-compliant options, the Saadiq Current Account offers similar benefits with adherence to Islamic banking principles.

On the savings front, the XtraSaver Account allows clients to earn competitive interest rates with no minimum balance requirement, available in both AED and USD currencies. The Saadiq XtraSaver Account offers similar features within a Shariah-compliant framework, utilizing the Mudarabah profit-sharing principle. For those looking to integrate their savings with wealth management, the Wealth$aver Account provides profit rates up to 3.50% per annum, access to multiple currencies, and aligns with Islamic banking standards.

RAKBANK

RAKBANK, also known as the National Bank of Ras Al-Khaimah, is one of the oldest and most dynamic banks in the United Arab Emirates. Established in 1976, it offers a wide range of personal and business banking services, including various current and savings accounts designed to meet the diverse needs of its customers. 

Savings and current accounts offered by RAKBANK:

Overview of Other Solutions

RAKBANK offers a comprehensive suite of personal and business banking services, including credit cards, personal and auto loans, and insurance products. For businesses, the bank provides tailored SME solutions, trade finance, and cash management. With a strong focus on digital innovation, RAKBANK also supports easy account management through its mobile app and online banking platform.

Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB)

Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) is a leading Islamic bank in the United Arab Emirates, established in 1997 to provide Shariah-compliant financial solutions. ADIB offers a comprehensive range of banking products and services, including various current and savings accounts designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals and businesses.

Savings and current accounts offered by ADIB:

Overview of Other Solutions

ADIB offers a variety of current and savings accounts tailored to meet the financial needs of its customers. The Current Account provides flexibility with multiple currency options, a free Visa debit card, and convenient access through online and mobile banking platforms. For those seeking to grow their savings, the Savings Account operates on the Mudaraba profit-sharing principle, offering competitive profit rates, a free Visa debit card, and easy access to funds. Additionally, the Ghina Savings Account not only provides profit-sharing benefits but also offers customers the chance to participate in monthly prize draws, enhancing the appeal for those looking to maximize their savings potential.

Upgrade your savings strategy with smarter alternatives

While traditional savings accounts in the UAE offer stability, many come with balance requirements and modest interest rates. For those seeking more flexibility and higher potential returns without locking up their money, there are alternative solutions worth exploring.

StashAway Simple™, for instance, is a cash management solution that offers competitive returns up to 4.3% p.a. while maintaining high liquidity—meaning you can access your funds at any time, just like a regular savings account. It’s a modern way to grow your money smarter, without the traditional trade-offs.