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Banks in UAE: Complete List of 63 Licensed Banks
The United Arab Emirates has one of the most diverse banking systems in the Middle East. The country is home to large UAE banking groups, Islamic banks, digital banks, specialised community banks, investment banks, and branches of major international financial institutions.
As of July 2026, the Central Bank of the UAE banking register includes 63 licensed banks.
These consist of:
- 25 UAE national banks
- 38 foreign banks
- 26 foreign retail banks
- 12 foreign wholesale banks
- 9 fully Islamic banks
- 3 national specialised banks
- 1 national investment bank
Not all 63 institutions provide the same services.
Banks such as Emirates NBD, First Abu Dhabi Bank, ADCB, Mashreq, Dubai Islamic Bank, and ADIB provide extensive personal and business banking services. Other institutions, particularly foreign wholesale banks, primarily serve corporations, governments, financial institutions, and institutional investors.
This guide lists all 63 banks using both their English and Arabic names, together with their UAE head office, Central Bank identification number, licence classification, and other UAE-specific information.
UAE Banking Sector at a Glance
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total licensed banks | 63 |
| UAE national banks | 25 |
| Foreign banks | 38 |
| Foreign retail banks | 26 |
| Foreign wholesale banks | 12 |
| Fully Islamic banks | 9 |
| National specialised banks | 3 |
| National investment banks | 1 |
UAE National Banks
There are 25 national banks in the UAE.
Complete List of UAE National Banks
| # | English Name | Arabic Name | UAE Head Office | CBUAE Licence | CBUAE Identification Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Emirates NBD Bank P.J.S.C. | بنك الإمارات دبي الوطني ش.م.ع | Dubai — دبي | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.003.1963.02 |
| 2 | Mashreq Bank P.S.C. | بنك المشرق ش.م.ع | Dubai — دبي | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.005.1967.02 |
| 3 | First Abu Dhabi Bank P.J.S.C. | بنك أبوظبي الأول ش.م.ع | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.008.1968.01 |
| 4 | Commercial Bank of Dubai P.J.S.C. | بنك دبي التجاري ش.م.ع | Dubai — دبي | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.010.1969.02 |
| 5 | Bank of Sharjah P.J.S.C. | بنك الشارقة ش.م.ع | Sharjah — الشارقة | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.015.1973.03 |
| 6 | Dubai Islamic Bank P.J.S.C. | بنك دبي الإسلامي ش.م.ع | Dubai — دبي | Islamic Retail | 01.01.02.025.1975.02 |
| 7 | Sharjah Islamic Bank P.J.S.C. | مصرف الشارقة الإسلامي ش.م.ع | Sharjah — الشارقة | Islamic Retail | 01.01.02.026.1975.03 |
| 8 | United Arab Bank P.J.S.C. | البنك العربي المتحد ش.م.ع | Sharjah — الشارقة | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.027.1975.03 |
| 9 | InvestBank P.J.S.C. | بنك الاستثمار | Sharjah — الشارقة | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.028.1975.03 |
| 10 | Arab Bank for Investment & Foreign Trade — Al Masraf | المصرف العربي للاستثمار والتجارة الخارجية | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.030.1976.01 |
| 11 | Emirates Islamic Bank P.J.S.C. | مصرف الإمارات الإسلامي ش.م.ع | Dubai — دبي | Islamic Retail | 01.01.02.031.1976.02 |
| 12 | National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah P.J.S.C. — RAKBANK | بنك رأس الخيمة الوطني ش.م.ع | Ras Al Khaimah — رأس الخيمة | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.032.1976.06 |
| 13 | Emirates Investment Bank P.J.S.C. | بنك الإمارات للاستثمار ش.م.ع | Dubai — دبي | Conventional Investment | 01.01.05.033.1976.02 |
| 14 | National Bank of Umm Al Qaiwain PSC | بنك أم القيوين الوطني ش.م.ع | Umm Al Quwain — أم القيوين | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.037.1982.05 |
| 15 | National Bank of Fujairah PSC | بنك الفجيرة الوطني ش.م.ع | Fujairah — الفجيرة | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.039.1984.07 |
| 16 | Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank P.J.S.C. | بنك أبوظبي التجاري ش.م.ع | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.040.1985.01 |
| 17 | Commercial Bank International P.J.S.C. | البنك التجاري الدولي ش.م.ع | Dubai — دبي | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.041.1991.02 |
| 18 | Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank P.J.S.C. | مصرف أبوظبي الإسلامي ش.م.ع | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | Islamic Retail | 01.01.02.042.1997.01 |
| 19 | Al Hilal Bank P.J.S.C. | مصرف الهلال ش.م.ع | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | Islamic Retail | 01.01.02.045.2007.01 |
| 20 | Ajman Bank P.J.S.C. | مصرف عجمان ش.م.ع | Ajman — عجمان | Islamic Retail | 01.01.02.048.2008.04 |
| 21 | Al Maryah Community Bank L.L.C. — Mbank | بنك المارية المحلي ذ.م.م | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | Conventional Specialised | 01.01.07.062.2021.01 |
| 22 | Wio Bank P.J.S.C. | ويو بنك ش.م.ع | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.063.2022.01 |
| 23 | Zand Bank P.J.S.C. | زاند بنك ش.م.ع | Dubai — دبي | Conventional Retail | 01.01.01.064.2022.02 |
| 24 | Ruya Community Islamic Bank L.L.C. | مصرف رويا المحلي الإسلامي ذ.م.م | Ajman — عجمان | Islamic Specialised | 01.01.08.067.2024.04 |
| 25 | Reem Community Bank P.S.C. | بنك ريم المحلي ش.م.خ | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | Conventional Specialised | 01.01.07.068.2026.01 |
Major UAE Banks Explained
Emirates NBD — بنك الإمارات دبي الوطني
Full legal name: Emirates NBD Bank P.J.S.C.
Arabic name: بنك الإمارات دبي الوطني ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Dubai — دبي
Current bank formed: 2007
Banking heritage: 1963
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.003.1963.02
SWIFT/BIC: EBILAEAD
Stock exchange: Dubai Financial Market
Major shareholder: Investment Corporation of Dubai
Official website: emiratesnbd.com
Emirates NBD is one of the UAE’s largest banking groups.
The current bank was created in 2007 through the merger of National Bank of Dubai and Emirates Bank International. Its banking history extends back to 1963 through National Bank of Dubai.
Emirates NBD provides:
- Personal banking
- Priority banking
- Private banking
- Business banking
- Corporate banking
- Wealth management
- Institutional banking
- International banking
Emirates NBD also owns Emirates Islamic.
First Abu Dhabi Bank — بنك أبوظبي الأول
Common name: FAB
Arabic name: بنك أبوظبي الأول ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
Current bank formed: 2017
Banking heritage: 1968
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.008.1968.01
SWIFT/BIC: NBADAEAA
Stock exchange: Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange
Major shareholder: Mubadala Investment Company
Official website: bankfab.com
FAB was formed through the merger of National Bank of Abu Dhabi and First Gulf Bank.
The combined institution began operating under the FAB identity in 2017.
FAB serves:
- Individuals
- SMEs
- Large corporations
- Government entities
- Financial institutions
- Institutional investors
- Private banking clients
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank — بنك أبوظبي التجاري
Common name: ADCB
Arabic name: بنك أبوظبي التجاري ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
Established: 1985
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.040.1985.01
SWIFT/BIC: ADCBAEAA
Stock exchange: Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange
Major shareholder: Mubadala Investment Company
Official website: adcb.com
ADCB is one of Abu Dhabi’s largest banking groups.
In 2019, ADCB combined with Union National Bank and acquired Al Hilal Bank.
Al Hilal remains a separately licensed Islamic bank within ADCB Group.
Mashreq — بنك المشرق
Full legal name: Mashreq Bank P.S.C.
Arabic name: بنك المشرق ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Dubai — دبي
Established: 1967
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.005.1967.02
SWIFT/BIC: BOMLAEAD
Stock exchange: Dubai Financial Market
Official website: mashreq.com
Mashreq is one of the UAE’s oldest locally incorporated commercial banks.
Its services include:
- Personal banking
- Business banking
- Corporate banking
- Private banking
- Wealth management
- Digital banking
- Cards
- Loans
- International transfers
Dubai Islamic Bank — بنك دبي الإسلامي
Common name: DIB
Arabic name: بنك دبي الإسلامي ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Dubai — دبي
Established: 1975
CBUAE classification: National Islamic Retail Bank
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.02.025.1975.02
SWIFT/BIC: DUIBAEAD
Stock exchange: Dubai Financial Market
Official website: dib.ae
Dubai Islamic Bank is one of the world’s best-known Islamic banking institutions.
It provides Shariah-compliant:
- Current and savings accounts
- Cards
- Personal finance
- Home finance
- Auto finance
- Business banking
- Corporate banking
- Investment services
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank — مصرف أبوظبي الإسلامي
Common name: ADIB
Arabic name: مصرف أبوظبي الإسلامي ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
Established: 1997
Operations began: 1998
CBUAE classification: National Islamic Retail Bank
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.02.042.1997.01
SWIFT/BIC: ABDIAEAD
Stock exchange: Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange
Official website: adib.ae
ADIB is one of the largest fully Islamic banking groups in the UAE.
Its services cover personal, business, corporate, private, and wealth banking.
RAKBANK — بنك رأس الخيمة الوطني
Full legal name: National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah P.J.S.C.
Arabic name: بنك رأس الخيمة الوطني ش.م.ع
Brand: RAKBANK
Headquarters: Ras Al Khaimah — رأس الخيمة
Established: 1976
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.032.1976.06
SWIFT/BIC: NRAKAEAK
Stock exchange: Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange
Major shareholder: Government of Ras Al Khaimah
Official website: rakbank.ae
RAKBANK has a strong presence in:
- Personal banking
- SME banking
- Business banking
- Cards
- Loans
- Mortgages
- Wholesale banking
Commercial Bank of Dubai — بنك دبي التجاري
Common name: CBD
Arabic name: بنك دبي التجاري ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Dubai — دبي
Established: 1969
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.010.1969.02
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: CBDUAEAD
Official website: cbd.ae
CBD serves personal, business, corporate, and institutional customers.
Bank of Sharjah — بنك الشارقة
Arabic name: بنك الشارقة ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Sharjah — الشارقة
Established: 1973
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.015.1973.03
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: SHARAEAS
Official website: bankofsharjah.com
Bank of Sharjah is one of the principal banks headquartered in the Emirate of Sharjah.
Sharjah Islamic Bank — مصرف الشارقة الإسلامي
Common name: SIB
Arabic name: مصرف الشارقة الإسلامي ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Sharjah — الشارقة
Established: 1975
Converted to Islamic banking: 2002
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.02.026.1975.03
CBUAE classification: National Islamic Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: NBSHAEAS
Official website: sib.ae
SIB originally operated as a conventional bank before converting completely to Islamic banking.
United Arab Bank — البنك العربي المتحد
Common name: UAB
Arabic name: البنك العربي المتحد ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Sharjah — الشارقة
Established: 1975
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.027.1975.03
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: UARBAEAA
Official website: uab.ae
UAB provides retail, SME, corporate, treasury, and trade-finance services.
Invest Bank — بنك الاستثمار
Full legal name: InvestBank P.J.S.C.
Arabic name: بنك الاستثمار
Headquarters: Sharjah — الشارقة
Established: 1975
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.028.1975.03
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: IBTFAEAS
Official website: investbank.ae
Invest Bank is a national bank with substantial Sharjah government-related ownership.
Al Masraf — المصرف العربي للاستثمار والتجارة الخارجية
Full legal name: Arab Bank for Investment & Foreign Trade
Arabic name: المصرف العربي للاستثمار والتجارة الخارجية
Brand: Al Masraf
Headquarters: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
Established: 1976
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.030.1976.01
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: ABINAEAA
Official website: almasraf.ae
Al Masraf has an unusual ownership structure involving UAE, Libyan, and Algerian institutional shareholders.
Emirates Islamic — مصرف الإمارات الإسلامي
Full legal name: Emirates Islamic Bank P.J.S.C.
Arabic name: مصرف الإمارات الإسلامي ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Dubai — دبي
Islamic operations launched: 2004
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.02.031.1976.02
CBUAE classification: National Islamic Retail Bank
Parent: Emirates NBD Group
SWIFT/BIC: MEBLAEAD
Official website: emiratesislamic.ae
Emirates Islamic operates as the fully Islamic banking entity within Emirates NBD Group.
Emirates Investment Bank — بنك الإمارات للاستثمار
Arabic name: بنك الإمارات للاستثمار ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Dubai — دبي
Established: 1976
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.05.033.1976.02
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Investment Bank
SWIFT/BIC: AEINAEAD
Official website: eibank.com
Emirates Investment Bank is not a normal mass-market retail bank.
Its activities focus more heavily on:
- Private banking
- Wealth management
- Investment management
- Investment services
National Bank of Umm Al Qaiwain — بنك أم القيوين الوطني
Common name: NBQ
Arabic name: بنك أم القيوين الوطني ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Umm Al Quwain — أم القيوين
Established: 1982
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.037.1982.05
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: UMMQAEAD
Official website: nbq.ae
NBQ is the main national bank headquartered in Umm Al Quwain.
National Bank of Fujairah — بنك الفجيرة الوطني
Common name: NBF
Arabic name: بنك الفجيرة الوطني ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Fujairah — الفجيرة
Incorporated: 1982
Operations began: 1984
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.039.1984.07
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: NBFUAEAF
Official website: nbf.ae
NBF has traditionally had a strong commercial and corporate banking business while also serving individual customers.
Commercial Bank International — البنك التجاري الدولي
Common name: CBI
Arabic name: البنك التجاري الدولي ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Dubai — دبي
Established: 1991
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.041.1991.02
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: CLBIAEAD
Official website: cbiuae.com
CBI is a UAE-incorporated bank with Qatar National Bank Group as a strategic shareholder.
Al Hilal Bank — مصرف الهلال
Arabic name: مصرف الهلال ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
Established: 2007
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.02.045.2007.01
CBUAE classification: National Islamic Retail Bank
Owner: Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank
Parent: ADCB Group
SWIFT/BIC: HLALAEAA
Official website: alhilalbank.ae
Al Hilal is wholly owned by ADCB but remains a separately licensed Islamic bank.
Ajman Bank — مصرف عجمان
Arabic name: مصرف عجمان ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Ajman — عجمان
Incorporated: 2007
Operations began: 2009
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.02.048.2008.04
CBUAE classification: National Islamic Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: AJMNAEAJ
Official website: ajmanbank.ae
Ajman Bank provides Shariah-compliant personal, business, and corporate banking.
Al Maryah Community Bank — بنك المارية المحلي
Brand: Mbank
Arabic name: بنك المارية المحلي ذ.م.م
Headquarters: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
Established: 2021
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.07.062.2021.01
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Specialised Bank
SWIFT/BIC: E097AEXX
Official website: mbank.ae
Mbank is a digital/community bank operating under a specialised banking licence.
Wio Bank — ويو بنك
Arabic name: ويو بنك ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
Established: 2022
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.063.2022.01
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: WIOBAEAD
Official website: wio.io
Wio is a digital-first retail bank serving individuals and businesses.
Its original strategic shareholders included ADQ, Alpha Dhabi, e&, and First Abu Dhabi Bank.
Zand Bank — زاند بنك
Arabic name: زاند بنك ش.م.ع
Headquarters: Dubai — دبي
Licensed: 2022
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.01.064.2022.02
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: ZANDAEAA
Official website: zand.ae
Zand is a UAE-incorporated bank with a technology-focused banking model.
Ruya Community Islamic Bank — مصرف رويا المحلي الإسلامي
Brand: ruya
Arabic name: مصرف رويا المحلي الإسلامي ذ.م.م
Headquarters: Ajman — عجمان
Licensed: 2024
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.08.067.2024.04
CBUAE classification: National Islamic Specialised Bank
SWIFT/BIC: E132AEXX
Customer service: 800 RUYA / 800 7892
Official website: ruyabank.ae
Ruya is a digital-first community bank offering Shariah-compliant banking services.
Reem Community Bank — بنك ريم المحلي
Brand: Reem Bank
Arabic name: بنك ريم المحلي ش.م.خ
Headquarters: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
Licensed: 2026
CBUAE identification number: 01.01.07.068.2026.01
CBUAE classification: National Conventional Specialised Bank
Official website: reembank.ae
Reem Community Bank is one of the newest banks to enter the UAE banking register.
Its registered office is in Abu Dhabi and its banking proposition is digitally focused.
Foreign Retail Banks in the UAE
There are 26 foreign retail banks.
These banks are headquartered outside the UAE but hold UAE banking licences.
Complete List of Foreign Retail Banks
| # | English Name | Arabic Name | Origin | UAE Head Office | CBUAE Identification Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | HSBC Bank Middle East Limited | بنك إتش إس بي سي الشرق الأوسط المحدود | United Kingdom / HSBC Group | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.001.1946.02 |
| 27 | Standard Chartered Bank | بنك ستاندرد تشارترد | United Kingdom | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.002.1958.02 |
| 28 | Citibank N.A. | سيتي بنك إن. أيه. | United States | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.004.1964.02 |
| 29 | Habib Bank Ltd. | حبيب بنك المحدود | Pakistan | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.006.1967.02 |
| 30 | United Bank Ltd. | يونايتد بنك ليمتد | Pakistan | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.007.1967.02 |
| 31 | Bank Saderat Iran | بنك صادرات إيران | Iran | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.009.1968.02 |
| 32 | Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait | البنك الأهلي الكويتي | Kuwait | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.011.1969.02 |
| 33 | Bank Melli Iran | بنك ملي إيران | Iran | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.012.1969.02 |
| 34 | Arab African International Bank | البنك العربي الأفريقي الدولي | Egypt | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.013.1970.02 |
| 35 | Banque Misr | بنك مصر | Egypt | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.014.1972.02 |
| 36 | Arab Bank PLC | البنك العربي | Jordan | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.01.016.1973.01 |
| 37 | BNP Paribas | بي إن بي باريبا | France | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.01.017.1973.01 |
| 38 | Al Khaliji (France) S.A. | الخليجي (فرنسا) إس. إيه. | France / Qatar-linked group | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.018.1973.02 |
| 39 | Rafidain Bank | مصرف الرافدين | Iraq | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.01.020.1974.01 |
| 40 | Bank of Baroda | بنك بارودا | India | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.021.1974.02 |
| 41 | Janata Bank PLC | جناتا بنك | Bangladesh | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.01.022.1974.01 |
| 42 | Habib Bank A.G. Zurich | حبيب بنك أي جي زيوريخ | Switzerland | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.023.1974.02 |
| 43 | Banque Banorient France | بنك بانورينت فرنسا | France | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.024.1974.02 |
| 44 | Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank | كريدي أجريكول بنك التمويل والاستثمار | France | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.029.1975.02 |
| 45 | El Nilein Bank | بنك النيلين | Sudan | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.02.034.1976.01 |
| 46 | National Bank of Oman S.A.O.G. | البنك الوطني العماني ش.م.ع.ع | Oman | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.01.035.1976.01 |
| 47 | National Bank of Bahrain | بنك البحرين الوطني | Bahrain | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.01.038.1982.01 |
| 48 | Doha Bank | بنك الدوحة | Qatar | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.046.2007.02 |
| 49 | The Saudi National Bank | البنك الأهلي السعودي | Saudi Arabia | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.047.2007.02 |
| 50 | National Bank of Kuwait | بنك الكويت الوطني | Kuwait | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.01.049.2008.02 |
| 51 | BOK International Bank | بي أو كي إنترناشيونال بنك | Sudan / Bank of Khartoum Group | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.02.061.2017.01 |
Major Foreign Retail Banks
HSBC Bank Middle East — بنك إتش إس بي سي الشرق الأوسط
Origin: United Kingdom / HSBC Group
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
UAE banking presence: Since 1946
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.001.1946.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: BBMEAEAD
Official website: hsbc.ae
HSBC has one of the longest histories of any international banking institution operating in the UAE.
Standard Chartered Bank — بنك ستاندرد تشارترد
Origin: United Kingdom
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
UAE regulatory history: Since 1958
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.002.1958.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: SCBLAEAD
Official website: sc.com/ae
Standard Chartered serves personal, business, corporate, and institutional clients in the UAE.
Citibank — سيتي بنك
Legal name: Citibank N.A.
Origin: United States
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
UAE presence: Since 1964
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.004.1964.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: CITIAEAD
Parent: Citigroup
Citi operates in the UAE as part of the global Citigroup network.
Habib Bank Limited — حبيب بنك المحدود
Common name: HBL
Origin: Pakistan
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
UAE presence: Since 1967
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.006.1967.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: HABBAEAD
HBL is one of Pakistan’s largest banking institutions and has operated in the UAE for decades.
United Bank Limited — يونايتد بنك ليمتد
Common name: UBL
Origin: Pakistan
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
UAE presence: Since 1967
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.007.1967.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: UNILAEAD
UBL is another major Pakistani bank with a long-standing UAE presence.
Arab African International Bank — البنك العربي الأفريقي الدولي
Common name: AAIB
Origin: Egypt
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
UAE presence: Since 1970
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.013.1970.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: ARAIAEAD
AAIB is primarily owned by the Central Bank of Egypt and Kuwait Investment Authority.
Banque Misr — بنك مصر
Origin: Egypt
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
UAE regulatory history: Since 1972
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.014.1972.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: BCAIAEAA
Banque Misr is one of Egypt’s largest state-owned banking institutions.
Arab Bank — البنك العربي
Origin: Jordan
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
UAE presence: Since 1973
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.016.1973.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: ARABAEAD
Arab Bank is one of the region’s largest Jordan-headquartered banking groups.
Rafidain Bank — مصرف الرافدين
Origin: Iraq
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
Established: 1941
UAE presence: Since 1974
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.020.1974.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
Ownership: Government of Iraq
SWIFT/BIC: RAFBAEAD
Rafidain is an Iraqi state-owned banking institution.
Bank of Baroda — بنك بارودا
Origin: India
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
Established: 1908
UAE presence: Since 1974
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.021.1974.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: BARBAEAD
Official website: bankofbarodauae.ae
Bank of Baroda is one of India’s major public-sector banks.
Janata Bank — جناتا بنك
Origin: Bangladesh
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
UAE presence: Since 1974
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.022.1974.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: JANBAEAA
Janata Bank is a state-owned Bangladeshi commercial bank.
Habib Bank AG Zurich — حبيب بنك أي جي زيوريخ
Origin: Switzerland
Headquarters: Zurich
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.023.1974.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: HBZUAEAD
Habib Bank AG Zurich is a separate institution from Pakistan’s Habib Bank Limited.
El Nilein Bank — بنك النيلين
Origin: Sudan
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.02.034.1976.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Islamic Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: NILBAEAA
El Nilein is one of the foreign banks classified as fully Islamic in the UAE.
National Bank of Oman — البنك الوطني العماني
Origin: Oman
Headquarters: Muscat
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.035.1976.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: NBOMAEAD
National Bank of Bahrain — بنك البحرين الوطني
Origin: Bahrain
Headquarters: Manama
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.038.1982.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: NBOBAEAA
Doha Bank — بنك الدوحة
Origin: Qatar
Headquarters: Doha
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.046.2007.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: DOHBAEAD
The Saudi National Bank — البنك الأهلي السعودي
Common name: SNB
Origin: Saudi Arabia
Headquarters: Riyadh
Current bank formed: 2021
UAE regulatory lineage: Since 2007
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.047.2007.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
The current Saudi National Bank was formed through the merger of National Commercial Bank and Samba Financial Group.
Customers making transfers should confirm the current UAE SWIFT/BIC directly with the bank because legacy identifiers may still appear in banking directories.
National Bank of Kuwait — بنك الكويت الوطني
Common name: NBK
Origin: Kuwait
Headquarters: Kuwait City
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.01.049.2008.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: NBOKAEAD
BOK International Bank — بي أو كي إنترناشيونال بنك
Origin: Sudan / Bank of Khartoum Group
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
UAE established: 2017
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.02.061.2017.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Islamic Retail Bank
SWIFT/BIC: BOKMAEAD
BOK International is a fully Islamic foreign bank under the UAE banking register.
Foreign Wholesale Banks in the UAE
There are 12 foreign wholesale banks.
They primarily serve large businesses and institutions rather than ordinary personal banking customers.
Complete List of Foreign Wholesale Banks
| # | English Name | Arabic Name | Origin | UAE Head Office | CBUAE Identification Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52 | Industrial & Commercial Bank of China | اندستريال أند كوميرشال بنك أوف تشاينا | China | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.03.050.2009.01 |
| 53 | Deutsche Bank AG | دويتشه بنك أي جي | Germany | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.03.051.2009.01 |
| 54 | KEB Hana Bank | كي إي بي هانا بنك | South Korea | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.03.053.2012.01 |
| 55 | Barclays Bank PLC | بنك باركليز | United Kingdom | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.03.054.2014.02 |
| 56 | Bank of China Limited | بنك أوف تشاينا ليمتد | China | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.03.055.2014.01 |
| 57 | Gulf International Bank B.S.C. | بنك الخليج الدولي ش.م.ب | Bahrain | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.03.056.2014.01 |
| 58 | MCB Bank Limited | إم سي بي بنك ليمتد | Pakistan | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.03.057.2015.02 |
| 59 | Intesa Sanpaolo S.P.A. | إنتيزا سان باولو | Italy | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي | 01.02.03.058.2016.01 |
| 60 | Agricultural Bank of China Ltd. | أغريكالتشرال بنك أوف تشاينا ليمتد | China | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.03.059.2016.02 |
| 61 | Bank Alfalah Limited | بنك الفلاح المحدود | Pakistan | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.03.060.2017.02 |
| 62 | International Development Bank for Investment & Finance | مصرف التنمية الدولي للاستثمار والتمويل | Iraq | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.03.066.2022.02 |
| 63 | Iraqi Islamic Bank for Investment & Development | المصرف العراقي الإسلامي للاستثمار والتنمية | Iraq | Dubai — دبي | 01.02.03.069.2026.02 |
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China — اندستريال أند كوميرشال بنك أوف تشاينا
Common name: ICBC
Origin: China
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.050.2009.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
Main Abu Dhabi SWIFT/BIC: ICBKAEAA
ICBC is one of the world’s largest banking institutions by total assets.
Deutsche Bank — دويتشه بنك
Origin: Germany
Global headquarters: Frankfurt
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.051.2009.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
SWIFT/BIC: DEUTAEAA
Its UAE operations primarily serve corporate and institutional clients.
KEB Hana Bank — كي إي بي هانا بنك
Origin: South Korea
Global headquarters: Seoul
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.053.2012.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
Parent: Hana Financial Group
SWIFT/BIC: KOEXAEAD
Barclays Bank — بنك باركليز
Origin: United Kingdom
Global headquarters: London
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.054.2014.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
SWIFT/BIC: BARCAEAD
Barclays’ UAE banking activities are focused on corporate, institutional, and investment-banking clients.
Bank of China — بنك أوف تشاينا
Origin: China
Global headquarters: Beijing
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.055.2014.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
Main Abu Dhabi SWIFT/BIC: BKCHAEAA
The bank can use different SWIFT codes for different branches, so international-transfer details should always be checked before sending money.
Gulf International Bank — بنك الخليج الدولي
Common name: GIB
Origin: Bahrain
Global headquarters: Manama
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.056.2014.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
SWIFT/BIC: GULFAEAA
GIB has substantial GCC sovereign and government-related ownership.
MCB Bank — إم سي بي بنك
Origin: Pakistan
Global headquarters: Lahore
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.057.2015.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
SWIFT/BIC: MUCBAEAD
Intesa Sanpaolo — إنتيزا سان باولو
Origin: Italy
Global headquarters: Turin
UAE head office: Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.058.2016.01
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
SWIFT/BIC: BCITAEAD
Agricultural Bank of China — أغريكالتشرال بنك أوف تشاينا
Origin: China
Global headquarters: Beijing
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.059.2016.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
SWIFT/BIC: ABOCAEAA
Bank Alfalah — بنك الفلاح
Origin: Pakistan
Global headquarters: Karachi
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.060.2017.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
SWIFT/BIC: ALFHAEAD
International Development Bank for Investment & Finance — مصرف التنمية الدولي للاستثمار والتمويل
Origin: Iraq
Global headquarters: Baghdad
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.066.2022.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
SWIFT/BIC: IDBQAEAD
This institution should not be confused with the multinational Islamic Development Bank, commonly abbreviated as IsDB.
Iraqi Islamic Bank for Investment & Development — المصرف العراقي الإسلامي للاستثمار والتنمية
Origin: Iraq
Global headquarters: Baghdad
Established: 1992
Operations began: 1993
UAE head office: Dubai — دبي
UAE licence: 2026
CBUAE identification number: 01.02.03.069.2026.02
CBUAE classification: Foreign Conventional Wholesale Bank
The classification is unusual.
Despite the institution having Islamic Bank in its name, its UAE licence is recorded as Conventional Wholesale.
Because the UAE operation is very new, UAE-specific operational details such as a local SWIFT/BIC should be confirmed directly with the bank.
Fully Islamic Banks in the UAE
The UAE register includes nine banks classified as fully Islamic institutions.
UAE National Islamic Banks
| English Name | Arabic Name | Licence |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai Islamic Bank | بنك دبي الإسلامي | Islamic Retail |
| Sharjah Islamic Bank | مصرف الشارقة الإسلامي | Islamic Retail |
| Emirates Islamic | مصرف الإمارات الإسلامي | Islamic Retail |
| Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank | مصرف أبوظبي الإسلامي | Islamic Retail |
| Al Hilal Bank | مصرف الهلال | Islamic Retail |
| Ajman Bank | مصرف عجمان | Islamic Retail |
| Ruya Community Islamic Bank | مصرف رويا المحلي الإسلامي | Islamic Specialised |
Foreign Islamic Banks
| English Name | Arabic Name | Licence |
|---|---|---|
| El Nilein Bank | بنك النيلين | Islamic Retail |
| BOK International Bank | بي أو كي إنترناشيونال بنك | Islamic Retail |
Some conventional banks also provide Shariah-compliant products through dedicated Islamic banking windows.
These may include Islamic accounts, cards, deposits, and financing even though the institution itself remains classified as a conventional bank.
Read our guide to Islamic banks in the UAE for more information.
Digital and Community Banks in the UAE
Digital banking has expanded quickly in the UAE.
Several newer banks have entered the market since 2021.
| Bank | Arabic Name | Licensed | CBUAE Category | Head Office |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mbank | بنك المارية المحلي | 2021 | Conventional Specialised | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي |
| Wio Bank | ويو بنك | 2022 | Conventional Retail | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي |
| Zand Bank | زاند بنك | 2022 | Conventional Retail | Dubai — دبي |
| Ruya | مصرف رويا المحلي الإسلامي | 2024 | Islamic Specialised | Ajman — عجمان |
| Reem Bank | بنك ريم المحلي | 2026 | Conventional Specialised | Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي |
Wio and Zand hold retail banking licences.
Mbank, Ruya, and Reem operate under specialised banking licences.
That distinction is important because not every digital banking institution has the same regulatory category or permitted activities.
Banks by Emirate
Banks Headquartered in Abu Dhabi — أبوظبي
UAE national banks headquartered in Abu Dhabi include:
- First Abu Dhabi Bank — بنك أبوظبي الأول
- Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank — بنك أبوظبي التجاري
- Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank — مصرف أبوظبي الإسلامي
- Al Hilal Bank — مصرف الهلال
- Al Masraf — المصرف العربي للاستثمار والتجارة الخارجية
- Mbank — بنك المارية المحلي
- Wio Bank — ويو بنك
- Reem Bank — بنك ريم المحلي
Foreign banks with their UAE head office in Abu Dhabi include:
- Arab Bank
- BNP Paribas
- Rafidain Bank
- Janata Bank
- El Nilein Bank
- National Bank of Oman
- National Bank of Bahrain
- ICBC
- Deutsche Bank
- KEB Hana Bank
- Bank of China
- Gulf International Bank
- Intesa Sanpaolo
- BOK International Bank
Banks Headquartered in Dubai — دبي
UAE national banks headquartered in Dubai include:
- Emirates NBD — بنك الإمارات دبي الوطني
- Mashreq — بنك المشرق
- Commercial Bank of Dubai — بنك دبي التجاري
- Dubai Islamic Bank — بنك دبي الإسلامي
- Emirates Islamic — مصرف الإمارات الإسلامي
- Emirates Investment Bank — بنك الإمارات للاستثمار
- Zand Bank — زاند بنك
Dubai is also the UAE head-office location for many foreign banks, including:
- HSBC
- Standard Chartered
- Citi
- HBL
- UBL
- Bank Saderat Iran
- Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait
- Bank Melli Iran
- Arab African International Bank
- Banque Misr
- Bank of Baroda
- Habib Bank AG Zurich
- National Bank of Kuwait
- Doha Bank
- Barclays
- Agricultural Bank of China
- Bank Alfalah
Banks Headquartered in Sharjah — الشارقة
National banks headquartered in Sharjah include:
- Bank of Sharjah — بنك الشارقة
- Sharjah Islamic Bank — مصرف الشارقة الإسلامي
- United Arab Bank — البنك العربي المتحد
- Invest Bank — بنك الاستثمار
Banks Headquartered in Ajman — عجمان
Ajman is home to:
- Ajman Bank — مصرف عجمان
- Ruya Community Islamic Bank — مصرف رويا المحلي الإسلامي
Both institutions provide Islamic banking, although Ruya operates under a specialised licence.
Banks Headquartered in Ras Al Khaimah — رأس الخيمة
RAKBANK is headquartered in Ras Al Khaimah.
Its legal name is:
National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah P.J.S.C.
Arabic:
بنك رأس الخيمة الوطني ش.م.ع
Banks Headquartered in Fujairah — الفجيرة
National Bank of Fujairah is headquartered in Fujairah.
Arabic:
بنك الفجيرة الوطني ش.م.ع
Banks Headquartered in Umm Al Quwain — أم القيوين
National Bank of Umm Al Qaiwain is headquartered in Umm Al Quwain.
Arabic:
بنك أم القيوين الوطني ش.م.ع
Government-Owned and Government-Linked UAE Banks
Government and sovereign entities have substantial ownership positions in several UAE banks.
| Bank | Major Government-Linked Shareholder |
|---|---|
| First Abu Dhabi Bank | Mubadala Investment Company |
| Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank | Mubadala Investment Company |
| Emirates NBD | Investment Corporation of Dubai |
| Dubai Islamic Bank | Investment Corporation of Dubai |
| RAKBANK | Government of Ras Al Khaimah |
| National Bank of Fujairah | Government of Fujairah |
| Bank of Sharjah | Sharjah government-linked ownership |
| Invest Bank | Government of Sharjah |
| Ajman Bank | Government of Ajman |
| National Bank of Umm Al Qaiwain | Government of Umm Al Quwain |
Government-linked ownership does not necessarily mean a bank is wholly government-owned.
Many of these institutions are publicly listed and also have private, institutional, and international shareholders.
Important UAE Banking Group Relationships
Several separately branded UAE banks belong to larger banking groups.
Emirates NBD and Emirates Islamic
Emirates NBD — بنك الإمارات دبي الوطني
owns:
Emirates Islamic — مصرف الإمارات الإسلامي
The two institutions maintain separate brands and banking models.
Emirates NBD is primarily conventional, while Emirates Islamic is fully Islamic.
ADCB and Al Hilal Bank
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank — بنك أبوظبي التجاري
owns:
Al Hilal Bank — مصرف الهلال
Al Hilal remains a separately licensed Islamic banking institution.
FAB and Wio
First Abu Dhabi Bank has been one of the strategic shareholders behind Wio Bank.
Wio remains a separately licensed bank.
UAE IBAN Numbers
An IBAN is an International Bank Account Number used to identify individual bank accounts.
UAE IBANs:
- Begin with AE
- Contain 23 characters
- Include a three-digit bank identifier
- Include the customer’s underlying account number
A UAE IBAN may look like:
AE07 0331 2345 6789 0123 456
An IBAN identifies a specific account.
It should not be confused with:
- A CBUAE identification number
- A SWIFT/BIC
- A debit-card number
- A normal account number
Read our guide to UAE IBAN numbers for more information.
SWIFT/BIC Codes in the UAE
A SWIFT code, also called a BIC, identifies a bank or banking office for international financial messaging and transfers.
Examples include:
- Emirates NBD —
EBILAEAD - FAB —
NBADAEAA - ADCB —
ADCBAEAA - Dubai Islamic Bank —
DUIBAEAD - ADIB —
ABDIAEAD - Mashreq —
BOMLAEAD
SWIFT codes can differ between branches or departments.
Always confirm the required code directly with the receiving bank before making an international transfer.
See the complete UAE bank SWIFT code guide for more information.
Bank Account Requirements in the UAE
Exact requirements vary between banks and products, but UAE residents are commonly asked for some combination of:
- Emirates ID
- Passport
- UAE residence visa or residency information
- UAE mobile number
- Residential address
- Employment information
- Salary details
- Source-of-funds information
Businesses may also need:
- Trade licence
- Memorandum of Association
- Incorporation documents
- Ultimate beneficial owner information
- Shareholder identification
- Business-address documents
- Expected account activity
- Source of funds and business-income information
Read our guide to opening a bank account in the UAE for a more detailed explanation.
UAE PASS and Digital Bank Accounts
Many UAE financial institutions increasingly use UAE PASS and digital identity verification during online onboarding.
Depending on the bank, customers may be able to:
- Start the application through the bank’s app.
- Verify their identity using Emirates ID or UAE PASS.
- Complete facial or biometric verification.
- Provide employment and tax-residency information.
- Accept account terms digitally.
- Receive a virtual or physical debit card.
The exact process differs by bank and account type.
Emirates ID and Banking
For UAE residents, the Emirates ID is one of the most important identity documents used by banks.
Banks may require customers to keep their Emirates ID information updated.
An expired ID or outdated KYC information can result in restrictions until the customer updates their records.
Islamic Banking in the UAE
The UAE has a major Islamic finance sector.
Fully Islamic banks structure their services according to Shariah principles.
Common Islamic finance structures include:
- Murabaha
- Ijarah
- Mudarabah
- Wakalah
- Musharakah
Islamic banks may use the term profit rate rather than conventional interest terminology, depending on the product and structure.
A conventional bank can also provide Islamic products through an Islamic banking window without being classified as a fully Islamic institution.
How to Choose a Bank in the UAE
The right bank depends on your income, residency status, financial needs, and how you prefer to manage your money.
1. Check Account Eligibility
Review:
- Minimum salary
- Minimum balance
- UAE residency requirement
- Age requirement
- Employer requirements
- Required identification
- Initial deposit
2. Compare Minimum-Balance Requirements
Some UAE bank accounts require a minimum monthly balance.
If the account falls below the required amount, the bank may charge a monthly fee.
Salary-transfer accounts and selected digital accounts may have different requirements.
3. Compare Fees
Check charges for:
- Account maintenance
- Minimum-balance shortfalls
- ATM withdrawals
- International transfers
- Cash deposits
- Cheque books
- Account closure
- Replacement cards
- Foreign-currency transactions
4. Review Debit and Credit Cards
Compare:
- Annual fees
- Cashback
- Reward points
- Airport lounge access
- Foreign transaction fees
- ATM limits
- Purchase limits
- Instalment options
5. Check Mobile Banking
Useful app features can include:
- Balance checking
- Local transfers
- International transfers
- Bill payments
- Card freezing
- Spending controls
- Virtual cards
- Digital statements
- Biometric login
- UAE PASS onboarding
Digital-focused institutions such as Wio, Zand, Mbank, and Ruya may appeal to customers who prefer managing their banking primarily through an app.
6. Consider the Branch and ATM Network
If you regularly deal with cash or cheques, consider:
- Branch locations
- ATM availability
- Cash-deposit machines
- Cheque-deposit facilities
- Branch hours
7. Compare International Transfers
For international payments, compare:
- Transfer fee
- Exchange-rate margin
- SWIFT charge
- Correspondent-bank fees
- Transfer time
- Supported currencies
- Transfer limits
8. Choose Between Islamic and Conventional Banking
Customers who specifically want Shariah-compliant banking should distinguish between:
- A fully Islamic bank
- A conventional bank offering an Islamic window
9. Check Customer Support
Useful support options include:
- UAE toll-free or local phone support
- International phone support
- In-app chat
- Branch support
- Dedicated relationship managers
- Arabic-language support
- English-language support
Banking Complaints in the UAE
Customers should normally raise a complaint with their bank first and allow the institution to process it through its internal complaints procedure.
If a qualifying complaint cannot be resolved satisfactorily, consumers may be able to escalate the matter to Sanadak.
Sanadak is the UAE’s independent financial ombudsman mechanism for eligible complaints involving licensed financial institutions and insurance companies.
This provides UAE consumers with an independent channel for financial complaint resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many licensed banks are there in the UAE?
There are 63 banks in the UAE banking register as of July 2026.
These consist of:
- 25 UAE national banks
- 38 foreign banks
What is the Arabic term for the Central Bank of the UAE?
The Central Bank of the UAE is:
مصرف الإمارات العربية المتحدة المركزي
What is a CBUAE identification number?
It is the unique identification number assigned to a licensed institution in the Central Bank register.
For example, FAB’s identification number is:
01.01.01.008.1968.01
It is not a SWIFT code or account number.
How many UAE national banks are there?
There are 25 national banks.
How many foreign banks operate in the UAE?
There are 38 foreign banks.
They consist of:
- 26 foreign retail banks
- 12 foreign wholesale banks
Are all 63 banks available for personal banking?
No.
Some institutions are wholesale, specialised, or investment banks.
Wholesale banks primarily serve companies, governments, financial institutions, and institutional investors.
Which are the major UAE banks?
Major UAE banking groups include:
- First Abu Dhabi Bank — بنك أبوظبي الأول
- Emirates NBD — بنك الإمارات دبي الوطني
- Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank — بنك أبوظبي التجاري
- Dubai Islamic Bank — بنك دبي الإسلامي
- Mashreq — بنك المشرق
- Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank — مصرف أبوظبي الإسلامي
Which UAE banks are fully Islamic?
Fully Islamic UAE national banks include:
- Dubai Islamic Bank — بنك دبي الإسلامي
- Sharjah Islamic Bank — مصرف الشارقة الإسلامي
- Emirates Islamic — مصرف الإمارات الإسلامي
- Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank — مصرف أبوظبي الإسلامي
- Al Hilal Bank — مصرف الهلال
- Ajman Bank — مصرف عجمان
- Ruya Community Islamic Bank — مصرف رويا المحلي الإسلامي
Is Emirates Islamic the same as Emirates NBD?
No.
Emirates Islamic is a separate Islamic banking entity owned by Emirates NBD Group.
Is Al Hilal Bank part of ADCB?
Yes.
Al Hilal Bank is wholly owned by Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank.
Are Wio and Zand licensed banks?
Yes.
Both Wio and Zand are classified as national conventional retail banks.
Is Mbank a licensed bank?
Yes.
Mbank is the brand of Al Maryah Community Bank.
Its regulatory category is Conventional Specialised Bank.
Is Ruya a licensed Islamic bank?
Yes.
Ruya Community Islamic Bank is classified as a National Islamic Specialised Bank.
Is Reem Bank licensed in the UAE?
Yes.
Reem Community Bank entered the register in 2026 as a National Conventional Specialised Bank.
Its CBUAE identification number is:
01.01.07.068.2026.01
What is the difference between a CBUAE number and SWIFT code?
A CBUAE identification number identifies the licensed financial institution in the UAE regulatory register.
A SWIFT/BIC identifies a bank or banking office for international financial messaging.
They serve completely different purposes.
How long is a UAE IBAN?
A UAE IBAN contains 23 characters and begins with AE.
What documents are usually needed to open a UAE bank account?
Residents may commonly need:
- Emirates ID
- Passport
- UAE residency details
- UAE mobile number
- Address
- Employment and salary information
Requirements differ by bank and account.
Can non-residents open bank accounts in the UAE?
Some UAE banks provide accounts for non-residents, but eligibility and available products are usually more limited than for UAE residents.
Banks may also request additional documentation and information regarding the source of funds.
Complete List of All 63 Banks in English and Arabic
- HSBC Bank Middle East Limited — بنك إتش إس بي سي الشرق الأوسط المحدود
- Standard Chartered Bank — بنك ستاندرد تشارترد
- Emirates NBD Bank P.J.S.C. — بنك الإمارات دبي الوطني ش.م.ع
- Citibank N.A. — سيتي بنك إن. أيه.
- Mashreq Bank P.S.C. — بنك المشرق ش.م.ع
- Habib Bank Limited — حبيب بنك المحدود
- United Bank Limited — يونايتد بنك ليمتد
- First Abu Dhabi Bank P.J.S.C. — بنك أبوظبي الأول ش.م.ع
- Bank Saderat Iran — بنك صادرات إيران
- Commercial Bank of Dubai P.J.S.C. — بنك دبي التجاري ش.م.ع
- Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait — البنك الأهلي الكويتي
- Bank Melli Iran — بنك ملي إيران
- Arab African International Bank — البنك العربي الأفريقي الدولي
- Banque Misr — بنك مصر
- Bank of Sharjah P.J.S.C. — بنك الشارقة ش.م.ع
- Arab Bank PLC — البنك العربي
- BNP Paribas — بي إن بي باريبا
- Al Khaliji (France) S.A. — الخليجي (فرنسا) إس. إيه.
- Rafidain Bank — مصرف الرافدين
- Bank of Baroda — بنك بارودا
- Janata Bank PLC — جناتا بنك
- Habib Bank A.G. Zurich — حبيب بنك أي جي زيوريخ
- Banque Banorient France — بنك بانورينت فرنسا
- Dubai Islamic Bank P.J.S.C. — بنك دبي الإسلامي ش.م.ع
- Sharjah Islamic Bank P.J.S.C. — مصرف الشارقة الإسلامي ش.م.ع
- United Arab Bank P.J.S.C. — البنك العربي المتحد ش.م.ع
- InvestBank P.J.S.C. — بنك الاستثمار
- Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank — كريدي أجريكول بنك التمويل والاستثمار
- Arab Bank for Investment & Foreign Trade — المصرف العربي للاستثمار والتجارة الخارجية
- Emirates Islamic Bank P.J.S.C. — مصرف الإمارات الإسلامي ش.م.ع
- National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah P.J.S.C. — بنك رأس الخيمة الوطني ش.م.ع
- Emirates Investment Bank P.J.S.C. — بنك الإمارات للاستثمار ش.م.ع
- El Nilein Bank — بنك النيلين
- National Bank of Oman S.A.O.G. — البنك الوطني العماني
- National Bank of Umm Al Qaiwain PSC — بنك أم القيوين الوطني
- National Bank of Bahrain — بنك البحرين الوطني
- National Bank of Fujairah PSC — بنك الفجيرة الوطني
- Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank P.J.S.C. — بنك أبوظبي التجاري ش.م.ع
- Commercial Bank International P.J.S.C. — البنك التجاري الدولي ش.م.ع
- Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank P.J.S.C. — مصرف أبوظبي الإسلامي ش.م.ع
- Al Hilal Bank P.J.S.C. — مصرف الهلال ش.م.ع
- Doha Bank — بنك الدوحة
- The Saudi National Bank — البنك الأهلي السعودي
- Ajman Bank P.J.S.C. — مصرف عجمان ش.م.ع
- National Bank of Kuwait — بنك الكويت الوطني
- Industrial & Commercial Bank of China — اندستريال أند كوميرشال بنك أوف تشاينا
- Deutsche Bank AG — دويتشه بنك أي جي
- KEB Hana Bank — كي إي بي هانا بنك
- Barclays Bank PLC — بنك باركليز
- Bank of China Limited — بنك أوف تشاينا ليمتد
- Gulf International Bank B.S.C. — بنك الخليج الدولي ش.م.ب
- MCB Bank Limited — إم سي بي بنك ليمتد
- Intesa Sanpaolo S.P.A. — إنتيزا سان باولو
- Agricultural Bank of China Ltd. — أغريكالتشرال بنك أوف تشاينا ليمتد
- Bank Alfalah Limited — بنك الفلاح المحدود
- BOK International Bank — بي أو كي إنترناشيونال بنك
- Al Maryah Community Bank L.L.C. — بنك المارية المحلي ذ.م.م
- Wio Bank P.J.S.C. — ويو بنك ش.م.ع
- Zand Bank P.J.S.C. — زاند بنك ش.م.ع
- International Development Bank for Investment & Finance — مصرف التنمية الدولي للاستثمار والتمويل
- Ruya Community Islamic Bank L.L.C. — مصرف رويا المحلي الإسلامي ذ.م.م
- Reem Community Bank P.S.C. — بنك ريم المحلي ش.م.خ
- Iraqi Islamic Bank for Investment & Development — المصرف العراقي الإسلامي للاستثمار والتنمية
Final Takeaway
The UAE banking system includes far more than the large consumer banks most residents encounter.
Its 63 licensed institutions include national retail banks, foreign retail banks, Islamic banks, digital banks, specialised banks, an investment bank, and international wholesale banks.
For everyday personal banking, residents will generally focus on retail institutions offering accounts, debit cards, credit cards, financing, mortgages, transfers, branches, ATMs, and mobile banking.
For UAE residents, it is also useful to distinguish between several different banking identifiers:
- CBUAE identification number — identifies the licensed institution in the UAE regulatory register
- SWIFT/BIC — identifies a bank or banking office for international transfers
- IBAN — identifies an individual bank account
- Account number — identifies the customer’s account within the bank
- Emirates ID — identifies the UAE resident and is commonly used for bank KYC
- UAE PASS — may be used for digital identity verification and onboarding