Emirates NBD, a leading bank in the Middle East, offers a streamlined process for individuals and businesses keen to open a bank account. Whether you’re a salaried employee, a self-employed professional, or a corporate entity, Emirates NBD’s inclusive banking policies ensure a seamless onboarding experience. With a digital-first strategy, including a mobile app and UAE PASS integration, Emirates NBD provides easy access to a broad range of innovative financial solutions.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to open an Emirates NBD account, specifically the Emirates NBD zero balance account, including the documentation required, and the diverse products and services that Emirates NBD offers to suit different financial profiles. We’ll also explore specialised offerings like Islamic banking, Priority Banking, Private Banking, and more.
Emirates NBD Zero-Balance Account
What is a Zero Balance Account?
A zero balance account is a type of bank account that doesn’t require you to maintain a minimum balance. This means you can open and operate the account without worrying about falling below a certain threshold or incurring related fees. For individuals or families looking for flexibility, a zero balance account can be an ideal solution.
Emirates NBD Zero Balance Account: The Family Savings Account
Emirates NBD’s Family Savings Account is designed to help families manage and grow their savings together, without the stress of maintaining a minimum balance. This account offers a convenient structure whereby each member of your immediate family can benefit from the same savings plan, yet still maintain some independence with individual sub-accounts.
Key Features
1. Zero Minimum Balance Requirement
The account offers a zero minimum balance, giving you the flexibility to deposit or withdraw funds as needed to suit your family’s financial requirements.
2. Individual Savings for Each Family Member
Every eligible family member can have their own linked savings account under the Family Savings Account structure. This ensures clarity of funds and an easy way to track each person’s individual savings goals.
3. Free Debit Card
Each account holder can receive a free debit card, making it simple for every family member to access their savings when they need to.
4. Interest Earnings
As it is a savings account, you may earn interest on the balance (up to 2.75% interest on pooled balances). Interest rates may vary.
5. Digital & Branch Banking
Manage your Family Savings Account via Emirates NBD’s Online and Mobile Banking platforms for effortless, round-the-clock access. Alternatively, you can also visit any Emirates NBD branch for in-person assistance or queries.
6. Additional Benefits
You can also benefit from Emirates NBD’s broader ecosystem of services, such as financial planning tools and multi-currency options.
Why Open an Emirates NBD Account?
1. Comprehensive Product Suite
Emirates NBD caters to various financial needs with Current Accounts, Savings Accounts, Deposit Accounts, XAU Currency Gold Accounts, and Mudarabah Savings Accounts. This extensive product range means you can find an account type that aligns precisely with your lifestyle and savings goals.
2. Innovative Digital Banking
The bank features advanced digital solutions, including a mobile app for near-instant account opening, electronic statements, and Smart Pass for secure, one-tap transaction authorisations. Integration with UAE PASS offers a fully digital identity verification, making the process faster and more reliable.
3. Global Reach
With over 200 branches and 900 ATMs/CDMs across the UAE and abroad, you’ll have ready access to your finances wherever you go. Emirates NBD ATMs also facilitate cash withdrawals for both customers and non-customers, with applicable fees and limits. International transactions are also streamlined, with 60-second transfers to select countries with DirectRemit, making Emirates NBD a smart choice for global banking.
4. Attractive Perks and Promotions
Emirates NBD runs a range of promotions, including:
- Chance to win luxury items like Mercedes Maybach S-650 cars and Omega Speedmaster watches, by maintaining certain account balances.
- Exciting rewards on debit and credit card purchases, like up to USD 1,090 (AED 4,000) savings on debit card deals and the chance to earn up to USD 13,615 (AED 50,000) with Beyond deals. Credit card users can enjoy different perks, such as cashback and rewards on loans, with rewards reaching up to USD 1,361 (AED 5,000).
5. Priority and Private Banking
High-net-worth individuals can take advantage of Priority Banking or Private Banking, which offers bespoke solutions, investment advisory, and trust and estate planning. Exclusive lounges, dedicated banking specialists, and personalised services create a premium banking experience.
6. Islamic Banking
For those seeking Shari’ah-compliant products, Emirates NBD provides a comprehensive range of Islamic banking services, ensuring that your finances are managed in accordance with Islamic principles.
Eligibility Criteria for Opening an Account
Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to open an Emirates NBD account.
Income Requirement:
- Zero-Balance Account: No minimum income is required to open a zero-balance account, such as the Family Savings Account.
- Salary Transfer Accounts: A minimum salary of around USD 1,361 (AED 5,000) is required for salary transfer accounts.
- Non-Salary Transfer Accounts: Maintain a minimum monthly average balance of USD 817 (AED 3,000), unless you opt for a zero-balance account.
Resident vs Non-Resident:
- UAE Residents: Provide a valid Emirates ID and meet basic documentation needs.
- Non-Residents: You can open an account by supplying additional documents like a utility bill, bank statements, or reference letter from a banker in your home country. Some accounts may require a higher minimum balance for non-residents.
Instant Digital Setup: To open an account instantly using the Emirates NBD Mobile App, you will need an active UAE mobile number, Emirates ID, passport, and proof of income that meets the minimum salary requirement of USD 1,631 (AED 5,000).
Explaining the AED 3,000 vs AED 5,000 Requirements
AED 5,000 (USD 1,361) Salary Requirement
If you’re opening a Salary Transfer Account, Emirates NBD typically requires a monthly salary of at least AED 5,000. Once you’re regularly depositing this salary, the minimum balance requirement is waived for that account.
AED 3,000 (USD 817) Minimum Monthly Balance
If you do not plan to transfer your salary or you want a non-salary transfer account, you must maintain a monthly average balance of AED 3,000. Falling below this balance could lead to fees or restrictions unless you open a zero-balance account where no minimum balance applies.
Required Documentation
Documents vary based on whether you’re opening an individual, joint, or company account:
For Individual Accounts
- Original Emirates ID and a copy
- Copy of your original passport
- Copy of your Labour Card (if applicable)
- Employee ID (if applicable)
- Recent salary letter or salary certificate (for salary transfer accounts)
Joint applicants must provide all relevant documents for each account holder.
For Company Accounts
- Passport and Emirates ID copies for all signatories, owners, or directors
- Trade Licence
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Board Resolution
- Any additional documents requested by Emirates NBD, such as proof of address
Note: Emirates NBD enforces Know Your Customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering regulations, so further documentation may be required to verify identity and financial status.
Check Your UAE Bank Account Qualification for Free Today!
How to Open an Emirates NBD Account
Whether you’re a salaried employee, self-employed, or a company representative, this process is straightforward and can be done in about 3–5 minutes if you meet the criteria for instant digital onboarding.
1. Choose Your Account Type
Determine which account suits your needs best—Family Savings Account, Standard Current Account, Savings Account, Deposit Account, the XAU Currency Gold Account, or a Mudarabah Savings Account. Each comes with unique features to align with your financial goals, including the option to open an Emirates NBD current account for everyday banking or a savings account if you want to earn interest.
2. Check Eligibility
- Age & Salary: Ensure you are at least 18 years old and satisfy the minimum salary requirement (USD 1,631 / AED 5,000) for salary-based accounts.
- Documents: Keep your Emirates ID, passport, and any proof of income (e.g., salary slips or a letter from your employer) ready.
- Mobile Number: You must have an active UAE mobile number in your name for SMS alerts and verification.
3. Use the Emirates NBD Mobile App (for Eligible Applicants)
- Download the App: Install the Emirates NBD Mobile App from the App Store or Google Play.
- Scan Your Emirates ID: The in-app scanner typically verifies your identity in about 1 minute.
- Passport & Proof of Income: Upload digital copies or photographs of your passport and salary documents if you’re opening a salary-transfer account.
- Facial Verification (Selfie): Some applicants may need to take a quick selfie to match biometric data with their Emirates ID for added security.
- UAE PASS Integration: If you have UAE PASS, you can speed up the verification process.
- Immediate Eligibility Check: Once the app processes your details, it checks your minimum salary and other criteria. If approved, you’ll get your account number on the spot.
4. Visit a Branch (If Necessary)
If you’re self-employed, non-resident, or prefer in-person assistance, you can visit any Emirates NBD branch. A bank representative will verify your documents and inform you of any additional paperwork required.
5. Maintain Required Balances
- Salary Transfer Accounts: Generally there is no minimum balance (zero balance) if you consistently transfer your salary.
- Non-Salary Transfer Accounts: Maintain USD 817 (AED 3,000) monthly average to avoid fees (unless you have a zero-balance account).
6. Await Confirmation & Delivery
After submission, you’ll receive a welcome SMS and email with your account details. A courier will deliver your Welcome Pack—including a debit card and chequebook—within 1–2 working days.
7. Account Activation
Salary-based accounts can be activated almost instantly after final checks, while other accounts may require slightly more time due to additional verification.
Customer Support
Emirates NBD provides:
- 24/7 phone banking
- In-app live chat
- Branch support
Emirates NBD Savings Account
If you’re looking to grow your balance over time, Emirates NBD’s Savings Account offers several advantages:
- Interest Rate: 0.20% per annum.
- Currencies Available: AED, USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, SGD, JOD, KWD, SAR, QAR, OMR, and BHD.
- Minimum Balance Requirement: AED 5,000.
- Free Debit Card: Provided upon account opening.
- Teller Transactions: Up to 10 free transactions per month, depending on your banking package.
- Account Statements: Half-yearly e-statements.
Emirates NBD Key Banking Services and Features
Personal Banking Solutions
- Wealth Management: Emirates NBD provides access to over 11,000 stocks and Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) in both global and local markets, including the USA, Europe, DFM, ADX, and Nasdaq Dubai. You can create watchlists and execute trades in real-time, enabling diverse investment and portfolio growth.
- Money Transfers: Enjoy quick international remittances via SWIFT and 60-second transfers to select corridors.
- Bill Payments: Effortless utility and telecom bill payments through the app, with options for automated debits.
- Loans and Instalment Plans: Flexible financing solutions, including loans on cards, cash advances, or balance conversions.
- Security Features: Smart Pass for one-tap transaction approvals, daily transaction limits, and real-time alerts to enhance account security.
- ATM Access: Emirates NBD ATMs allow withdrawals for both customers and non-customers (fees may apply).
Corporate and Investment Banking
The bank’s Corporate and Investment Banking division delivers a broad spectrum of services to businesses:
- Cash flow management and working capital solutions
- Trade finance facilities and corporate advisory
- Investment banking for mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring
For companies and entrepreneurs, opening an Emirates NBD business account can help establish robust financial management, facilitate payroll, and secure corporate financing options.
Priority and Private Banking
For clients maintaining higher balances—generally around AED 200,000 (USD 55,000)—Emirates NBD extends Priority Banking or Private Banking services:
- Bespoke solutions with dedicated wealth management support
- Exclusive privileges: Priority lounges, premium customer care, and tailored rewards
- Personalised advice on investments, estate planning, and trust services
Islamic Banking
Emirates NBD’s Islamic segment offers Shari’ah-compliant banking through:
- Islamic Current and Savings Accounts
- Murabaha and Mudarabah-based products
- Islamic finance for personal, auto, and home needs
Digital Banking Innovations
Emirates NBD strives to stay at the forefront of digital innovation with dedicated initiatives:
- Future Lab: Partners with industry leaders to explore emerging technologies and develop innovative solutions for the bank’s ecosystem.
- ENBD X App: A next-generation banking app offering over 150 real-time services, seamless interface updates, and expanded functionality for both retail and corporate customers.
- Emirates NBD API Souq: Enables FinTechs, developers, and corporate clients to create new financial applications, showcasing the bank’s commitment to open banking and collaborative innovation.
- Chat Banking via WhatsApp: Allows you to connect with Emirates NBD through a familiar channel, receiving updates and assistance in a secure, chat-based format.
- Awards for Digitalisation and Innovation: Recognised globally for its pioneering role in digital banking, Emirates NBD has received numerous accolades highlighting its cutting-edge approach to customer-centric solutions.
Emirates NBD Security and Customer Experience
- Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering Compliance:
Emirates NBD adheres to strict KYC and AML regulations, which means they require proof of identity to prevent fraud. Keeping your personal details current with the bank is essential. Occasionally, additional documents may be requested, and the bank will inform you if that is necessary. - 24-Hour Holding Period:
For any newly added beneficiary, ensuring extra protection against unauthorised transfers. - Smart Pass:
Secure digital authorisation that replaces SMS OTPs, with real-time alerts for online banking activities. - Post-Approval Follow-Up:
Once your documents pass final verification, your account remains active unless flagged for additional checks, which the bank will clarify. - Round-the-Clock Support:
Multiple support channels (phone, in-app chat, branch visits) are available to address queries promptly.
How to Activate An Emirates NBD Credit Card
Activating your Emirates NBD credit card is a key step in starting to use it for transactions and managing your finances. The process is straightforward and can be completed through various channels.
New Customers
If you’re a new Emirates NBD cardholder, activation must be initiated by contacting the bank directly. This security measure ensures the card is in the right hands before its first use. Emirates NBD provides 24/7 contact numbers for convenient phone activation.
Existing Customers
As an existing customer, you can activate your new credit card through online or mobile banking—often the fastest and most secure method.
Tip: Upon receiving your new credit card, sign the back immediately for added security. Merchants may check your signature against receipts for verification.
Supplementary Cardholders
If you have supplementary cardholders, be sure to provide Emirates NBD with their mobile numbers so they receive SMS alerts for transactions. These alerts won’t show the remaining balance, but they enhance security. Once updated, the supplementary cardholder will also receive authorisation codes via SMS.
Smart Pass for Credit Cards
Emirates NBD offers Smart Pass, a digital security feature that replaces traditional SMS-based authorisation codes (OTPs). Before enabling Smart Pass, it’s crucial to have the latest version of the Emirates NBD mobile app installed:
- Android Users: Your device must run Android 8 or higher.
- iOS Users: Your device must run iOS 10.3 or higher.
Regularly check the Google Play Store or Apple App Store for any pending updates. If your app or device software isn’t up to date, you may encounter errors or be unable to activate Smart Pass.
How to Enable Smart Pass
- Launch the Emirates NBD Mobile App: If you’ve migrated to the new ENBD X app, you might see a banner prompting you to activate Smart Pass after logging in.
- Review Terms & Conditions: Read and accept them to proceed.
- Verify Your Details: An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter this OTP in the app to confirm your identity and email.
- Set a Smart Pass PIN: Create and confirm your new PIN. Once done, Smart Pass activates immediately.
- Secure Transactions: With Smart Pass enabled, you can authorise credit card purchases using biometrics (Touch ID or Face ID) or your Smart Pass PIN, eliminating the need for SMS-based codes.
Note: Smart Pass can only be active on one device per user. If you want to activate Smart Pass on a new device, you must deactivate it on the old one first. Should you reset your mobile device to factory settings, you can continue using Smart Pass by re-verifying once you reinstall the app. If you attempt a transaction without Smart Pass active, the system will prompt you to enable it—ensuring that all transactions are securely authorised.
By enabling Smart Pass, you’ll enjoy a seamless and secure credit card experience, with faster transaction approvals and robust protection against unauthorised usage.
Ready to Download the Emirates NBD Mobile App?
Opening an Emirates NBD account is a user-friendly process, whether you opt for the digital route or a face-to-face branch visit. From everyday banking to sophisticated wealth management, Emirates NBD brings an all-encompassing suite of services under one roof. With robust security, enticing promotions, and a global network of branches, you’ll have the backing of a trusted financial partner for your journey ahead.
Don’t forget that Emirates NBD also offers Zero Balance Account options, such as the Family Savings Account, which are suited to individuals who want to enjoy banking without the hassle of maintaining a minimum balance, while still benefiting from features like free debit cards, digital tools, and seamless access to funds.
Download the Emirates NBD Mobile App or visit your nearest branch today to begin your account opening process.
FAQ’s
Can I Open an Emirates NBD Zero-Balance Account?
Yes, Emirates NBD offers Emirates NBD zero account balance opening online with no requirement to maintain a monthly average balance, along with a free debit card and optional supplementary cards for family members.
How Can I Open an Emirates NBD Account Instantly Using the Mobile App?
To open an Emirates NBD account digitally, download the Emirates NBD Mobile App and scan your Emirates ID. The system will complete facial verification and instantly process your eligibility. If approved, you’ll receive your account number on the spot. If you’ve selected an Emirates NBD zero balance account, you won’t need to maintain a monthly minimum balance. Just ensure you have a valid UAE mobile number, Emirates ID, and any requested proofs of identification ready. Once your details are verified, you can enjoy a fully operational bank account without the usual balance requirements.
What is the Minimum Salary for an Emirates NBD Account?
For the Family Savings Account, there is no minimum salary or minimum balance required. However, for other account types. the bank stipulates a minimum salary threshold of USD 1,361 (AED 5,000) for account opening. This ensures that potential account holders have a reliable source of income, which is a standard practice for financial stability. Verification of income is necessary during the account set-up process.
What is the Minimum Balance for an Emirates NBD Savings Account?
Emirates NBD offers a zero balance account, called the Family Savings Account. For other savings accounts, a minimum balance of USD 1,361 (AED 5,000) is required.
How Do I Perform an NBD Bank Balance Enquiry?
You can make an NBD bank balance enquiry through the Emirates NBD Mobile App or NBD online internet banking. Log in with your credentials, and your account dashboard will display your current balance. Alternatively, you can check balances at any Emirates NBD ATM or call the 24/7 customer care number.
What is NBD Online, and Can I Use It for Everyday Transactions?
NBD online is Emirates NBD’s internet banking platform. It allows you to manage accounts, conduct money transfers, pay bills, and make NBD bank balance enquiry checks. Once registered, you can access NBD online from any web browser using your secure login details.
Can I Open an Emirates NBD Business Account if I Run a Small Company?
Absolutely. Emirates NBD business account options cater to SMEs, large corporations, and start-ups. Provide your trade licence, Memorandum of Association, passport, and Emirates ID copies for all signatories. The account helps manage payroll, cash flow, and provides financing options tailored to business needs.
How Do I Open an Emirates NBD Current Account if I Am Not a Salaried Employee?
If you’re self-employed or a freelancer, you can open an Emirates NBD current account by visiting a branch in person. You may need additional documents, such as a copy of your trade licence or proof of self-employment. Emirates NBD will verify your identity and financial details before completing the process.
Does Emirates NBD Have an Invite Code Feature for Referrals?
Yes. Existing customers can use the “invite code” feature on the Emirates NBD Mobile App to refer friends or family, helping them sign up more quickly. From time to time, there may be special promotions or rewards associated with successful referrals, so it’s worth checking the app for any current offers.
