For many in the UAE, especially expats, a salary account isn’t just where your paycheck lands. It’s your financial starting point. With expatriates making up nearly 89% of the UAE’s population and a banking sector managing over AED 4.25 trillion in assets, salary accounts play a vital role in daily life—ensuring timely payments and unlocking access to credit cards, loans, and essential financial services.
Under the UAE’s Wage Protection System (WPS), most employers deposit salaries directly into designated bank accounts. These are usually zero-balance accounts, meaning there’s no minimum deposit required. They often come with free debit cards, broad ATM access, and quick account setup.
If you’ve just moved to the UAE or simply want a better deal from your bank, we’ve compiled 12 top salary accounts and what each one offers.
Understanding Salary Accounts
Eligibility Criteria for Opening a Salary Account in the UAE
Minimum Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old to open a salary account.
UAE Residency: A valid UAE residence visa is mandatory. Both UAE nationals and expatriates with legal residency are eligible to open a salary account.
Employment: The applicant should be a salaried employee with a regular income.
Salary Transfer: A salary transfer to the account is typically required.
To open a salary account, the following documents are generally needed:
Emirates ID: A valid Emirates Identification Card.
Passport: A copy of the applicant’s passport.
Residence Visa: Proof of UAE residency.
Salary Proofs: Such as a salary transfer letter, salary certificate, or recent pay slips.
Top 12 Salary Accounts Offered by Major Banks in the UAE
Mashreq Happiness Account
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Min. Salary: AED 10,000
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Eligibility: UAE residents (18+)
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Account Type: Current (Shariah-compliant option available)
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Zero Balance: No fall-below fees with salary transfer
Perks & Benefits
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Joining Bonus: Up to AED 2,000 (based on salary tier and how you apply)
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Unlimited Intl. Transfers: Via Mashreq’s digital banking
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Free Debit Card & Cheque Book
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Salaam Rewards: Earn points by making transactions and remittances
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QuickRemit: Fast transfers to 35+ countries
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Referral Bonus: Up to AED 6,000 for referring others
Things to Note
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Salary must be transferred from a UAE-registered employer
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Bonus can be clawed back if salary isn’t transferred for 2 consecutive months
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Below AED 10,000 salary, AED 25 monthly fee applies
Best For: High-earning professionals looking for strong rewards, no balance fees, and global transfer access.
Emirates Islamic Current Account
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Min. Salary: AED 5,000
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Min. Balance: AED 3,000 (waived with salary transfer)
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Account Type: Shariah-compliant current account
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Currencies Supported: AED, USD, GBP, EUR, and more
Perks & Benefits
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Global Debit Card: Use internationally for purchases and withdrawals
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Free Cheque Book: Personalized with 10 leaves for AED accounts
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Multi-Currency Account Setup: Ideal for users dealing in foreign currencies
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Mobile & Online Banking: Track spending and manage your account with ease
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SMS Alerts: Real-time transaction notifications
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Joint Account Option: Flexibility for shared finances
Things to Note
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AED 25 fee applies if you don’t maintain the AED 3,000 minimum and skip salary transfer
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Free ATM withdrawals capped at 6 per month; AED 10 per transaction thereafter
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Debit card and cheque book not issued for non-AED currency accounts
Best For: Those seeking a flexible, Shariah-compliant account with multi-currency options, reliable mobile access, and straightforward joint account features.
ADIB Ghina Salary Account
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Min. Salary: AED 8,000
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Account Type: Shariah-compliant salary account
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Profit Distribution: Declared quarterly on the 1st of January, April, July, and October
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Currency: AED, USD, or GBP
Perks & Benefits
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Visa Debit Card Included: Spend and withdraw worldwide
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Free Cheque Book: First issue is free; small fee for additional ones
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Monthly Profits: Earn expected returns when maintaining AED 5,000+
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Full Digital Access: Manage funds via mobile, online, SMS, or phone
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24/7 Control: Banking convenience across all platforms
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Prize Draws: Maintain AED 20,000 to enter for cash, miles, or a Nissan Patrol
Things to Note
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Maintain AED 3,000 daily to avoid monthly fall-below fees
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Prize eligibility requires consistent balance of AED 20,000 or more
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Early account closure (within 12 months) may incur fees per ADIB’s policy
Best For: Customers seeking ethical banking with monthly profit returns and high-value prize draws—ideal for consistent savers earning AED 8,000 or more.
RAKBANK RAKmore Salary Transfer Account
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Min. Salary: AED 5,000
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Account Type: Current account
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Balance Requirement: None (zero-balance account with salary transfer)
Perks & Benefits
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Free Debit Card: Round-the-clock access via Mastercard ATMs worldwide
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Monthly Cheque Book: One free issue per month
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Unlimited Local Transfers: Send money within the UAE at no extra cost
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1 Free International Transfer/Month: Via Digital Banking (excluding RAKMoneyTransfer)
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Free-for-Life Credit Card: Based on eligibility
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Segmented ATM Access:
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RAKElite: 3 free non-RAKBANK ATM withdrawals/month
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RAKSelect: 2 free
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Standard: 1 free
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Things to Note
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AED 100 fee if the account is closed within 12 months
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AED 2 fee applies after the allotted free ATM withdrawals
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International ATM usage incurs AED 20 per transaction
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International remittances may involve correspondent bank fees
- All the service charges are inclusive of 5% VAT.
Best For: Individuals earning AED 5,000+ who want a zero-balance salary account with strong local transfer perks, and added benefits for higher salary tiers.
ADCB Salary Account
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Min. Salary: AED 5,000
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Account Type: Current account
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Currencies Supported: AED + major global currencies
Perks & Benefits
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Free AED Cheque Book: One issued upon account opening
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E-Statements: Stay updated with zero-cost digital statements
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Digital Access: Full control through ADCB mobile and internet banking
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Multi-Currency Option: Open accounts in foreign currencies as needed
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TouchPoints Rewards: AED 8,000 salary earns TouchPoints (Salary Transfer Bonus)
Added Benefits
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Salary Transfer Bonus: Up to 6,500 TouchPoints for UAE Nationals and 5,500 for Expatriates, redeemable for lifestyle rewards
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Relationship Manager: For customers earning AED 20,000+
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Privilege Banking Access: Premium services and exclusive offers
Things to Note
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Meet any one of the following to avoid AED 25 fall-below fee:
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Maintain a total relationship balance of AED 3,000
OR -
Salary transfer of AED 5,000 or more per month
OR -
Hold any other product with ADCB (Credit Card, Loan, Overdraft, Brokerage, Bancassurance, or Investment)
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To unlock salary rewards: AED 8,000+ salary + AED 2,500 card spend within 3 months
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Non-ADCB ATM usage may incur charges based on account tier
Best For: Professionals earning AED 5,000+ who value loyalty rewards, digital convenience, and prefer a bank that offers tiered service as their income grows.
Emirates NBD Salary Account
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Min. Salary: AED 5,000
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Account Type: Current account
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Currencies Available: AED, USD, GBP, EUR
Perks & Benefits
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Zero Balance Required: No fall-below fees with salary transfer
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Free Debit Card & Cheque Book: Issued at account opening
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Robust Digital Banking: Mobile and online access with MePay for instant transfers
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600+ ATMs & 90+ Branches: One of the largest networks in the UAE
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Contactless & Cardless Access: Withdraw cash or make purchases without your card
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DirectRemit Transfers: Send money abroad in under 60 seconds
Added Benefits
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Cash Incentives: Earn up to AED 15,000 plus a chance to win from prize draws worth AED 5 million
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Smart Security: Protected by advanced chip technology and fraud safeguards
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Utility Bill Payments: Settle bills easily within the app
Things to Note
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Salary must be transferred to waive balance fees
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AED 3,000 average balance required if no salary transfer (AED 26.25 fall-below fee)
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AED 105 fee if account is closed within 6 months
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Extra cheque books cost AED 10.50 each
Best For: Salary earners looking for maximum convenience, cashback rewards, and fast global remittance with strong digital and in-person banking options.
Standard Chartered Salary Account
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Min. Salary: AED 5,000
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Account Type: Current account
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Currencies Supported: AED, USD, GBP, EUR
Perks & Benefits
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Free Global Debit Card: Use at ATMs and POS worldwide
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No Balance Requirement: No fall-below fee if salary is transferred monthly
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Free Cheque Book: Issued at account setup
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Digital Banking: Full control via app and online portal
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Bill Payments Made Easy: Pay DEWA, Etisalat, Du, and more
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0% Balance Transfers: Consolidate credit card dues interest-free
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Islamic Option Available: Choose Shariah-compliant banking with Saadiq
Added Benefits
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Reward Credit Cards: Access cashback and loyalty programs
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Cash Convenience: 24/7 global ATM usage
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Additional Services: Set up automatic payments or deposit cash at machines
Things to Note
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AED 5,000 salary transfer is required to maintain zero-balance status
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Only UAE residents aged 21+ are eligible
Best For: Expats and residents who want a no-fuss, globally accessible account with digital ease, optional Islamic banking, and rewards on credit usage.
Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD) Salary Account
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Min. Salary: AED 5,000
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Account Type: Current account
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Currency: AED
Perks & Benefits
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Free Debit Card: Chip & PIN enabled with global access and contactless payments
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Complimentary Cheque Book: First one free upon account opening
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Digital Banking Access: Use CBD’s mobile app and online portal for 24/7 account management
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Built-in Budgeting Tools: Monitor spending and track savings within the app
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Overdraft Facility: Emergency personal overdraft available when needed
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24/7 Customer Support: Round-the-clock assistance via CBD’s call center
Added Benefits
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CBD Reward Points: Earn on every dirham spent and redeem for deals and discounts
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Lounge Access: Complimentary entry to 10+ airport lounges in the UAE, KSA, Jordan, Kuwait, and Egypt for Platinum Debit Card holders
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International Transfers: Send money abroad through the app at competitive rates
Things to Note
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AED 5,000 minimum salary transfer required to waive the AED 26.25 balance fee
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Maintain average balance or salary credit to avoid penalties
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AED 105 fee applies if account is closed within six months
Best For: Salary earners looking for digital banking tools, lounge perks, and reward points—with a practical overdraft option for financial flexibility.
Liv. by Emirates NBD Account
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Min. Salary: AED 10,000
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Account Type: Digital current account
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Currency: AED
Perks & Benefits
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Zero Balance Requirement: No fall-below fees with AED 10,000+ salary transfer
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100% Digital: Open and manage your account through the Liv. app—no branch visits needed
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Free Visa Debit Card: Issued at signup with global access
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Built-in Budgeting Tools: Track expenses, save smarter, and set financial goals
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Lifestyle Discounts: App-only deals on dining, travel, shopping, and entertainment
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24/7 App Chat Support: Round-the-clock help via in-app chat
Added Benefits
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Interest on Balances: Earn up to 1.5% profit annually
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Monthly Prize Draws: Keep AED 1,000+ in your account to enter the Livionaire draws (win up to AED 1M)
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Wallet Integration: Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay
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Global Transfers: Send money abroad at competitive rates through the app
Things to Note
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AED 5,000 monthly salary transfer needed to avoid balance fees
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Without salary, maintain AED 3,000 or pay AED 25 fall-below fee
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No cheque book available for this account
Best For: Digital-first users who want a modern, app-based banking experience with rewards, smart financial tools, and full control on the go.
HSBC Advance Account
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Min. Salary: AED 10,000
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Account Type: Current account
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Currencies Supported: AED, USD, GBP, EUR
Perks & Benefits
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Multi-Currency Account: Hold and manage funds in four major currencies
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Free International Debit Card: Global access with no added fees
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Digital Banking: Full control via HSBC mobile and internet banking
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Overdraft Facility: Fee-free up to 1x salary or AED 50,000 (whichever is lower); first AED 2,000 is interest-free
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Global Transfers: Send money abroad with ease and competitive rates
Added Benefits
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Cashback Offer: AED 1,500 cashback when you open an Advance account via the HSBC UAE app (until 31 Dec 2025)
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Travel Discounts: 10% off British Airways flights using your HSBC Advance Debit Card
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ENTERTAINER App Access: Enjoy 2-for-1 deals on dining, leisure, and more
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Global Recognition: Advance status acknowledged across HSBC’s international network
Things to Note
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AED 10,000 salary must be credited monthly to maintain eligibility
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AED 100,000 in deposits/investments required to avoid service fees
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Salary must be clearly marked as “Salary” in transaction description
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Applicants must be 18+ and not already banking with HSBC UAE
Best For: High-earning professionals seeking a globally recognized banking experience with multi-currency access, overdraft options, and lifestyle perks at home and abroad.
FAB One Account
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Min. Salary: AED 10,000
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Account Type: Current account
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Currency: AED only
Perks & Benefits
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No Balance Charges: No fall-below fee, even without maintaining a minimum
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Platinum Mastercard Debit Card: Free with international access and perks
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Lounge Access: Enjoy up to 4 complimentary visits a year at select Middle East airports
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Digital Banking: Full access via FAB mobile and internet platforms
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Retail Discounts: Get exclusive offers with select UAE brands
Added Benefits
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FAB Rewards:
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40 points per AED 100 spent (local or international)
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6 points per AED 1,000 in average balance (min. AED 10,000; cap at 80,000/month)
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Online Purchase Security: One-time password (OTP) for every transaction
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Purchase Protection: Coverage for up to 90 days on eligible card purchases
Things to Note
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AED 10,000 salary is mandatory to open the account
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Only 4 free ATM withdrawals/month across the UAE; extra usage may incur fees
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Available only to UAE residents
Best For: High-earning individuals who want zero balance hassle, a strong rewards program, airport privileges, and lifestyle perks in a single digital-friendly account.
ADIB Current Account
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Min. Salary: AED 5,000
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Min. Balance: AED 3,000 (to avoid fall-below fee)
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Account Type: Shariah-compliant current account
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Currencies Supported: AED, USD, GBP, EUR
Perks & Benefits
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Visa Debit Card: Free with global access
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Free Initial Cheque Book: Issued at opening; fee applies for additional books
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Unlimited Teller Access: Use any of 60+ ADIB branches across the UAE
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Full Digital Access: Online, mobile, phone, and SMS banking
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24/7 Banking: Manage your account any time
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Standing Instructions: Set up recurring bill or transfer payments with ease
Added Benefits
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No Monthly Fees: When minimum balance is maintained
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Overdraft Option: Instant facility for those transferring AED 8,000+
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E-Statements: Free monthly statements straight to your inbox
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Ethical Banking: Fully compliant with Islamic finance principles
Things to Note
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AED 25 fee applies if balance drops below AED 3,000
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Overdraft feature requires a higher salary transfer (AED 8,000)
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Additional cheque books cost AED 25 each
Best For: Those earning AED 5,000+ seeking a Shariah-compliant, branch-accessible account with flexible banking options and overdraft support.
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Top 12 Salary Accounts Comparison Table
To help you choose the right salary account, below is a quick comparison of the top options based on salary requirements, key features, and who they’re best suited for:
Bank & Account | Key Benefits | Best For |
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Mashreq Happiness Account | Guaranteed joining bonus, Salaam points, free transfers | High earners seeking rewards |
Emirates Islamic Current Account | No minimum balance charges (with salary transfer), free debit card, multi-currency access | Islamic banking with prize perks |
ADIB Ghina Salary Account | Chance to win AED 1 million, profit on balance | Shariah-compliant savings with prize draws |
RAKBANK RAKmore Salary Transfer | Free transfers, credit card offers, tiered perks | Balanced digital and traditional users |
ADCB Salary Account | TouchPoints rewards, partner offers | Loyalty rewards and ADCB users |
Emirates NBD Salary Account | Cash rewards, wide ATM access, DirectRemit | Wide access and promotional offers |
Standard Chartered Salary Account | Global access, credit card offers | International professionals |
ADIB Current Account | Overdraft option, teller access | Shariah-compliant basic account |
FAB One Account | Rewards, lounge access, lifestyle perks | Reward-focused users |
HSBC Advance Account | Basic banking, global access | Simple accounts with no salary threshold |
Liv. by Emirates NBD Account | Fully digital, rewards, no minimum balance | Mobile-first users |
CBD Salary Account | Cashback on salary, simple account features | Basic account with cashback incentives |
What Is the Best Salary Account in UAE?
There’s no single “best” salary account for everyone. The right choice depends on your personal income, banking habits, and what you actually want from your bank.
Some people prioritize rewards and bonuses. Others care more about zero balance flexibility or low remittance fees. So, instead of chasing the most popular bank, start by asking: What matters most to me?
Here are a few factors that influence what’s best for you:
Your salary level:
If you’re earning AED 3,000–5,000, go for accounts with no minimum balance requirement, like Emirates NBD or ADIB.
Earning AED 10,000 or more? You can access premium accounts with more perks, like Mashreq Happiness.
Your daily needs:
Do you mostly use mobile apps for banking? Look at banks like ADCB or RAKBANK with strong digital platforms.
Need free local transfers or cheque books? Check those features before you choose.
International needs:
For frequent overseas transactions, banks like Standard Chartered and Emirates NBD offer better international access and transfer options.
Faith-based preferences:
Want a Sharia-compliant option? Go with ADIB or Emirates Islamic, they offer full Islamic banking features.
Bonus seekers:
Some banks offer joining rewards or prize draws—Emirates Islamic’s Kunooz account gives you a chance to win a Tesla or even AED 1 million.
In the end, the “best” account is the one that helps you manage your money without surprises, no hidden fees, no rigid conditions, and ideally, some benefits you’ll actually use.
How to Open a Salary Account in the UAE
Begin by researching banks that offer salary accounts aligning with your financial needs. Consider factors such as:
Minimum Salary Requirement: Banks typically require a minimum monthly salary ranging from AED 3,000 to AED 10,000.
Zero Balance Facility: Some banks waive the minimum balance requirement if your salary is regularly credited to the account.
Additional Benefits: Look for perks like free debit cards, online banking, reward programs, and international remittance facilities.
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Recruitment and Staffing Solutions: Assisting companies in sourcing, screening, and hiring qualified candidates to meet their workforce needs.
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Employee Onboarding and Orientation: Develop structured onboarding programs to integrate new hires smoothly into the organization.
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Performance Management Systems: Implementing systems to evaluate employee performance, set goals, and provide feedback.
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Training and Development Programs: Designing and delivering training sessions to enhance employee skills and competencies.
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Payroll and Benefits Administration: Managing payroll processing and administering employee benefits in compliance with UAE regulations.
Prepare the necessary documentation to facilitate a smooth account opening process:
Emirates ID: Original and a copy.
Passport: Valid passport with UAE residence visa page.
Proof of Residency: Tenancy contract or recent utility bill.
Salary Proof: Salary certificate, employment contract, or recent pay slips.
You can apply for a salary account through various channels:
Online Application: Many banks offer online portals or mobile apps for account opening.
In-Person Visit: Visit a local branch with your documents for assistance.
Through Employer: Some employers have tie-ups with banks and can facilitate the account opening process.
After submitting your application:
Verification: The bank will verify your documents and may contact you for any additional information.
Account Activation: Once verified, your account will be activated, and you’ll receive your account details.
Coordinate with your employer to ensure your salary is credited to your new account:
Provide Account Details: Share your new account number and bank details with your HR or payroll department.
Confirm Transfer: Verify that your salary is being deposited into the new account as scheduled.
Common Fees, Penalties, and Account Maintenance Rules
While salary accounts in the UAE offer convenience and perks, hidden charges can eat into your savings if you’re not careful. Here’s a breakdown of common banking fees and how to avoid them.
Quick Tips to Avoid Unnecessary Banking Fees
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Set up salary transfer alerts to ensure timely credits.
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Use in-network ATMs and mobile apps for transfers and bill payments.
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Schedule regular check-ins on your balance and transaction history.
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Read the fine print—especially on bonuses, overdrafts, and promotions.
FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I open more than one salary account in the UAE?
Yes, you can open multiple bank accounts, but you can only have your salary credited to one account unless your employer agrees to split it. Most employers work with a designated bank, especially under the Wage Protection System (WPS), so check with your HR team first.
What happens if I change jobs—do I need a new salary account?
Not necessarily. You can continue using the same salary account with your new employer, but you’ll need to provide them with your bank details and possibly update your salary transfer letter. Some banks may reclassify your account type based on the new salary amount.
Can freelancers or self-employed individuals open a salary account?
Generally, no. Salary accounts are designed for salaried employees with a consistent monthly income from a registered employer. However, freelancers and self-employed individuals can open personal or current accounts instead, often with stricter documentation requirements.
Is there a penalty for not transferring my salary regularly?
Yes. Many salary accounts offer zero-balance features only if a salary is credited monthly. If that condition isn’t met, banks may impose a minimum balance fee (typically AED 25–100/month) unless otherwise agreed.
Are salary accounts eligible for loans and credit cards?
Yes, and in fact, having your salary credited to a bank often improves your eligibility for personal loans, overdrafts, or credit cards. Banks view salary inflow as proof of income and stability, which reduces their lending risk.
Can I use my salary account as a savings account?
Technically yes, but it’s not ideal. Salary accounts are built for day-to-day use. If you’re trying to save money consistently, consider opening a separate savings account that earns interest or rewards.
What if my employer is late with salary payments—will my account be affected?
Your account won’t be penalized, but you may lose zero-balance privileges if the salary isn’t credited on time. Repeated delays can lead to fall-below fees or make you ineligible for certain account benefits. It’s best to inform your bank if such delays are expected.