If you’re moving to the UAE for your studies, you’re about to embark on an exciting step in your life. But navigating finances can feel overwhelming, especially with everything else you have going on. Knowing how to open a student bank account is one of the most important early tasks, especially for international students. A local bank account will make everyday life easier, whether you’re paying tuition, managing your rent, or receiving money from home.
At Remitly, our goal is to make every aspect of personal finance easier. In this guide, we’ll go over the key benefits of a student bank account in the UAE, the documents required, and the step-by-step process for opening one.
Why you need a student bank account
Having a local bank account for students in the UAE will make your life much easier. When you understand how to open a student bank account, you can enjoy smoother day-to-day money management. Quite simply, it makes everything faster, cheaper, and simpler.
Convenience
You can pay your university fees, accommodation charges, and daily expenses without worrying about international transaction fees or fluctuating exchange rates.
Safety
A student bank account also provides safety. You won’t need to carry large amounts of cash, and many banks’ mobile apps allow you to easily freeze your card should it go missing or get stolen.
Accessibility
With a local bank account, you won’t need to rely on foreign cards that may have extra fees and security checks, so you can access your money easily whenever you need it. The peace of mind this easy access gives you is so valuable—especially when you’re adjusting to a different country and financial system.
Many banks also offer mobile apps that let you set limits or get instant transaction alerts, which gives you even more control over your money.
Budgeting
A student bank account can also help you budget. You can monitor your spending through online banking tools, see monthly summaries, and plan for essentials like textbooks, groceries, and transportation. It’s one of the smartest steps you can take to simplify your life and finances.
What do you need to open a bank account?
The first step in opening a student bank account is gathering the documents the banks will require. The exact documents will vary depending on the bank and type of account you choose, but we’ve provided some general guidance to get you started.
1. Passport and UAE residence visa
Your passport is required to identify you. Your UAE residence visa needs to be stamped or printed inside the passport to prove that you’re legally in the country.
2. Emirates ID
This is your primary form of identification in the UAE. Some banks may allow you to start the application process before you get the physical card, but you’re likely to need it to complete the process.
3. University enrolment letter
Student bank accounts are only offered to people who are currently students. You can prove this with an official letter from your university.
4. Proof of address
A tenancy contract or utility bill is usually required. If you live in University housing, a residence confirmation letter may also work.
5. Passport-size photographs
Many banks ask for one or two recent photographs, which are used for your account records and debit card profile.
6. Sponsor’s documents (if applicable)
If a parent or guardian is sponsoring your studies, or you’re below the age of 18, you may need additional documents from them, including:
- Their passport
- Their UAE residence visa
- Their Emirates ID
How to open a student bank account: a four-step guide
Opening a student bank account in the UAE isn’t difficult. The process is quite straightforward as long as you know what to expect and have your documents in order.
1. Choose the right bank
Many UAE banks offer special student accounts that make it easier for you to manage your money without high fees or complicated requirements.
Here are some benefits to look out for:
- No minimum balance requirements. This is great for students managing tight budgets.
- Low or zero monthly fees to avoid unnecessary costs.
- Strong digital banking services. Look for mobile apps that let you check your balance, transfer money, and freeze or unfreeze your card instantly.
- Convenient ATM networks.
Some of the most popular UAE banks for students are:
- Emirates NBD. Dedicated student accounts and widely accessible ATMs.
- Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB). Known for excellent digital banking tools and apps.
- Mashreq. Flexible and convenient personal banking services that appeal to many students.
It’s also worth checking to see if the bank has partnerships with your university, as you may receive additional perks.
2. Gather your documents
Once you’ve chosen your bank, it’s time to get your application together. Before you start your application, it’s a good idea to make photocopies or digital scans of all the documents we mentioned above. This helps to speed up the application process. Many banks allow you to open an account online or through an app, and these digital copies of your information allow you to do that without visiting a branch.
3. Apply online or in person
Depending on the bank you choose, you may be able to open the account through the bank’s website, via a mobile app, or by visiting a branch in person.
Visiting a branch might be the easiest option for new students, especially if you have questions or need guidance. A representative will review your documents with you, answer any questions you have about account features, and help you fill out the application form.
The process could take between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on how busy the branch is. If any documents are missing or incomplete, the bank staff can inform you on the spot. That’s helpful if you’re unfamiliar with local banking practices.
Many UAE banks now have fully digital applications, which allow you to open an account from a phone or laptop. This is convenient if you have a busy schedule.
When applying online, you’ll be asked to:
- Upload scanned copies of your documents.
- Fill in your personal details
- Complete digital identity verification (this may involve taking a selfie or scanning your Emirates ID)
Once everything is submitted, the bank will review your application and contact you if they need any additional information. Digital applications are usually processed within a few business days, although some banks may approve them the same day.
Whichever method you choose, you should review the account details carefully. Make sure you know the fees you’ll be charged, your withdrawal limits, and the mobile app features. When you open an account, you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions, so make sure you understand them.
4. Receive your debit card
Once your application is approved, the bank will send you a welcome kit. This may include your debit card, a sealed envelope containing your PIN, and instructions to activate your account and set up mobile banking.
Some banks will give the debit card to you at the branch, while others will post it to you.
Activating your account usually takes a few minutes. Different banks have different procedures, but here are the most common ways to do it:
- At an ATM
- Through the bank’s mobile app or online banking site
- Via telephone
Once your card is activated, it’s ready to use straight away for payments, ATM withdrawals, and transfers. Take a few minutes to explore the digital banking app, so that you know how it works, and set your security settings to make your account safe.
Opening a bank account for students in the UAE is an important step in money management while studying abroad. Follow this four-step guide, and you’ll get through the process smoothly and confidently. You’ll have one less thing to worry about as you settle into student life.
Top banks in the UAE for students
Several UAE banks offer products that work well as a bank account for students. Let’s take a look at three of the most student-friendly options, with easy digital banking and low fees while you study.
Emirates NBD Youth Package
Although this account isn’t specifically a student account, it is designed for people aged 18 to 25, which makes it accessible to most university students. One of the best things about it is that there is no minimum balance required, which is a great feature to have if you’re on a tight budget. The debit card provided with the account also doubles as an RTA Nol transit card, and the account allows you to make free local and international transfers through online and mobile banking.
With low entry barriers, lifestyle perks such as discounts on cinema tickets, and the ability to earn interest, this is a great option not just for students, but for any young person in the UAE.
ADCB Hayyak Account
Hayyak is not branded specifically as a bank account for students, but it’s a popular choice thanks to its ease of use. You can open this account through the app, without needing to visit a branch at all.
ADCB offers both regular and shari’ah-compliant bank accounts, though many have a standard minimum balance rule, usually around 5,000 AED (around £1,000). Make sure to check the documents for any accounts before you commit so that you’re aware of any fees you might face.
Mashreq Neo
Mashreq offers a fully digital banking platform that’s great if you prefer to do everything through your phone. You can open a Neo account in just a couple of minutes by scanning your Emirates ID, taking a selfie, and entering a few basic details.
Mashreq offers some pretty significant perks that make it popular with students. For example, you can get cashback when transferring your salary into the account, and more cashback when you pay for everyday purchases with your digital wallet or send money abroad. They also have a referral bonus that lets you earn cash when your friends sign up for an account.
You need a minimum monthly income of 5,000 AED to access this account, but the ease of use and perks may make it worth it if you have a job that qualifies. They also offer interest-generating savings accounts to boost your funds.
| Bank and product | Minimum balance policy | Debit card and access | Stand-out student perks |
| Emirates NBD – Youth Package | No minimum balance or salary required |
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| ADCB – via Hayyak app | Standard ADCB current/savings minimums apply (often around 5,000 AED; check product terms) |
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| Mashreq Neo – Current Account | Minimum income of 5,000 AED per month |
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Finding the best bank account for students in the UAE
Opening a student bank account in the UAE is a straightforward process. The key is to make sure you have the right documents ready. For some accounts, like Mashreq Neo, all you need is an Emirates ID, while others require a passport, proof of address, and photos.
Whichever account you choose, you’ll find it much more convenient to have an account based here in the UAE. A local account helps you avoid costly fees and exchange rates and gives you easy access to your money.
Take a look at what the various banks offer to find the best bank account for students. Once you have your finances sorted, you’ll be one step closer to building your new life as a student in the UAE.
FAQs
Can an international student open a bank account in the UAE?
Yes. You’ll need a valid UAE residence visa and an Emirates ID card to open a student bank account in the UAE.
Is there a minimum balance for a student bank account?
Some bank accounts require a minimum balance, usually around 5,000 AED. However, some student accounts, like the Emirates NBD Youth Package, have no minimum balance requirement. Check the terms and conditions carefully before you commit to an account.
How long does it take to open the account?
The time it takes to open a student bank account varies from one bank to another, and it depends on how complete your documents are. In general, most banks will get an account up and running in anything from a few days to a couple of weeks. Some banks may even be able to open an account in a single day.
Can I open a bank account before I get my Emirates ID?
Probably not. Most banks require a valid Emirates ID to complete your account opening process. You may be able to start the process before you receive your ID card, but you’ll need it to complete your application.