1. Eligibility and Requirements 

Opening a non-resident bank account in the UAE is accessible to most individuals worldwide, but there are specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements to meet. Here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility

• Global Access: Almost anyone can apply, except for individuals from sanctioned or high-risk countries (e.g., Iran, Israel, North Korea). Applicants from high-risk countries may face additional scrutiny and documentation requirements.
• Physical Presence: You must visit a UAE bank branch in person to open the account. Remote account opening is not available for non-residents, and you’ll need to stay in the UAE for at least one business day.
• Visa Requirements: A valid entry permit is required to enter the UAE. Depending on your nationality, you may qualify for a visa-free stay of up to 90 days.
  
  

Required Documents 

To open a non-resident bank account, you’ll need to provide the following:

• Identification: Original passport, including the page showing your UAE entry stamp.
• Proof of Address: A recent utility bill (from the last two months) or similar document verifying your residential address.
• Financial History: Bank statements from the last six months to demonstrate your financial background.
• Professional Background: A detailed CV outlining your professional history, which helps banks assess your profile.
• Bank Reference: An original reference letter from a bank where you hold a personal or corporate account.
• Source of Funds: Comprehensive details about the sources of your incoming funds to comply with anti-money laundering regulations.

Minimum Balance 

Many banks require a minimum monthly balance, often around 100,000 AED (approximately $27,000 USD), though this varies based on the bank, your nationality, and financial history. Some banks may also require you to purchase additional banking products as a condition for opening the account.

Additional Notes

• Sanctioned Countries: Citizens of certain countries are ineligible due to international sanctions. Always verify your eligibility with the bank or a financial advisor.
• Business Accounts: If opening a business account, additional documents such as company registration, Articles of Association (AoA), Memorandum of Association (MoA), trade/business license, and details about shareholders and business activities may be required. Some documents may need verification by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  
  

2. The Process of Opening a Non-Resident Bank Account 

The process of opening a non-resident bank account in the UAE is straightforward but requires careful preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Consult a Business Advisor: Start by consulting with a financial or business advisor to select a bank that suits your needs and obtain initial approval. This step helps streamline the process and ensures you meet the bank’s requirements.
2. Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required documents, including your passport, proof of address, bank statements, CV, reference letter, and details about your income sources. For business accounts, include company-related documents.
3. Travel to the UAE: You must visit a UAE bank branch in person. Plan to stay for at least one business day to complete the application process.
4. Submit Your Application: At the bank, submit your documents and complete the necessary paperwork. The bank will issue your account number within one business day, but full account setup, including receiving your debit card and activating all services, may take 3-4 weeks due to verification processes.