Emirates NBD is the second largest bank in the UAE, not the largest. Its own investor relations page ranks it 2nd in the UAE and 3rd in the GCC.
Total assets were AED 1,322 billion at the end of June 2026. Deposits were AED 892 billion and gross loans AED 771 billion.
It was formed in 2007 when Emirates Bank International merged with National Bank of Dubai. It serves over 9 million active customers across 13 countries and employs more than 48,000 people.
The bank covers the full spectrum: personal current and savings accounts, home loans, auto finance, credit cards, business banking, wealth management, and investment services. Its digital banking platform, Emirates NBD Online and the ENBD X mobile app, ranks among the most capable in the country. For salaried employees, especially those whose companies transfer salaries through Emirates NBD, opening an account here is often the path of least resistance, and frequently a genuinely good choice.
That said, Emirates NBD is not the cheapest option on the market. Minimum balance and minimum salary requirements can catch customers off guard, and some fee structures, particularly on international transfers outside a handful of free corridors and credit card cash advances, are higher than what fee-free challenger accounts or specialist remittance apps charge. If you are a cost-sensitive customer or a small business owner looking for lean banking, you may find better value elsewhere.
Overall Rating: 4.2 / 5
Best For
- Salaried UAE residents whose employers process payroll through Emirates NBD
- Customers who need wide branch and ATM access across all seven emirates
- Families looking for a full-service bank covering home loans, savings, and education accounts
- Frequent international travellers who want multi-currency cards and airport lounge access
- Business owners needing comprehensive SME banking with trade finance capability
- High-net-worth clients interested in Emirates NBD Private Banking
Not Ideal For
- Customers with low average monthly balances who want to avoid maintenance fees
- Freelancers and sole proprietors who need flexible, low-cost business accounts
- Those who send money to destinations outside the 6 free DirectRemit corridors and want the lowest possible transfer fee
- Customers in Northern Emirates who want frequent branch proximity beyond major hubs
- Anyone seeking a fully Islamic banking experience, as Islamic products sit under a separate subsidiary, Emirates Islamic
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
| Bank Type | Full-service retail, corporate, and private banking |
| Founded | 2007 (merger of EBI and NBD) |
| Ownership | Government of Dubai holds 41%, per Emirates NBD investor relations |
| Total assets | AED 1,322 billion at 30 June 2026 |
| Total deposits | AED 892 billion at 30 June 2026 |
| Gross loans | AED 771 billion at 30 June 2026 |
| Market value | AED 191 billion as at 23 July 2026 |
| Capital ratio | 15.6% |
| Rank | 2nd largest bank in the UAE, 3rd largest in the GCC, per its own investor relations page |
| Routing code | 302620122 |
| Head office | Baniyas Road, Deira, P.O. Box 777, Dubai |
| Digital bank | Liv |
| Branch and ATM network | Over 200 branches and 900+ ATMs/CDMs, UAE and overseas combined |
| Regulator | Central Bank of the UAE |
| Customer Care | 600 54 0000, 24/7 |
| Online Banking | Emirates NBD Online Banking |
| Mobile App | ENBD X (iOS and Android) |
| SWIFT/BIC Code | EBILAEAD (EBILAEADBTA for the Dubai branch) |
| IBAN length | 23 characters, starting AE |
| Credit ratings | Set by the agencies themselves. We could not confirm a current rating from a primary source for this update, so check Moody’s, Fitch or S&P direct |
Before you assume DirectRemit is free: since September 1, 2025, only 6 corridors stay free (India, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Egypt to Emirates NBD Egypt accounts, and the UK). Most other countries now cost AED 26.25 per transfer unless you hold Priority, Private, or Personal Banking Beyond status. Source: Emirates NBD’s own DirectRemit page.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Widest branch and ATM network of any UAE bank, spread across all seven emirates plus an international footprint.
- Strong physical banking presence for cash deposits, document submissions, safe deposit boxes, and in-person customer support.
- Highly rated mobile banking app with a user-friendly and reliable interface.
- Real-time account balance and transaction monitoring through the mobile app.
- Convenient features including fund transfers, bill payments, credit card management, FX conversion, and Cardless Cash withdrawals.
- Salary transfer accounts provide attractive benefits and banking privileges.
- Preferential personal loan rates for customers who receive their salary through Emirates NBD.
- Easier credit card approvals and higher credit limits for salary account holders.
- Free DirectRemit transfers to India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and the UK, with no cap mentioned for eligibility beyond the published per-transfer limits.
- One of the most extensive credit card portfolios in the UAE.
- Wide range of cards including cashback, travel rewards, air miles, and lifestyle-focused options.
- Premium card benefits such as airport lounge access and exclusive travel perks.
- Suitable credit card options available for both entry-level customers and high-income earners.
- Home to premium offerings such as the Emirates Skywards Infinite Card for frequent travelers and high spenders.
Cons
- Minimum balance and minimum salary requirements on standard current accounts can be restrictive for some customers.
- Customers who maintain balances below the required minimum (typically AED 3,000 on entry-level accounts) may incur monthly account maintenance fees.
- These recurring charges can gradually reduce savings, particularly for low-income individuals or those experiencing temporary unemployment.
- DirectRemit now charges AED 26.25 per transfer to most countries outside the 6 free corridors, since the September 2025 fee change.
- Regular overseas money transfers to non-exempt countries can become costly compared to alternatives such as exchange houses and digital remittance services.
- Customers sending funds abroad frequently to non-exempt countries may find better value with lower-cost transfer providers.
- Phone-based customer service can involve long wait times during peak hours.
- While digital self-service tools and chatbot support are available, complex issues often require assistance from a human representative.
- Reaching a customer service agent quickly is not always guaranteed, especially during busy periods.
Emirates NBD banking services at a glance
The bank serves several customer segments, so the available products depend on whether you are an individual, UAE national, business owner, corporate customer or high-net-worth client.
| Banking area | Main services |
| Personal banking | Current and savings accounts, deposits |
| Cards | Credit, debit, prepaid and commercial cards |
| Financing | Personal, auto and home loans, overdrafts |
| Digital banking | ENBD X mobile app and online banking |
| Transfers | Local and international transfers, DirectRemit |
| Investment | Shares, ETFs, sukuk and wealth services |
| Business banking | SME, commercial and corporate banking |
| Islamic banking | Emirates Islamic products and services |
Emirates NBD also provides foreign-currency services, insurance solutions and investment facilities through its wider banking ecosystem.
Current and savings accounts for UAE customers
For everyday banking, customers can choose between current and savings accounts depending on how they intend to use their money.
Current accounts
A current account is generally designed for regular transactions such as salary credits, payments, transfers and cheque-based banking. Emirates NBD offers current-account options with features such as debit cards and cheque-book facilities, subject to the relevant account terms.
Account requirements can differ according to the banking package and customer profile. Some packages are linked to salary-transfer requirements or minimum relationship balances, so customers should check the applicable terms before applying.
Savings accounts
Savings accounts are intended for customers who want to keep money accessible while potentially earning interest, depending on the selected account and applicable conditions. Some savings products are available in UAE dirhams as well as major foreign currencies.
The right account depends on factors such as salary, average balance, transaction requirements and whether you need a cheque book or foreign-currency facilities.
Banking packages and minimum salary requirements
Emirates NBD does not use one set of requirements for every customer. It sorts personal customers into named packages, each tied to a minimum monthly salary credit or balance.
The bank’s own published package details, checked directly on its website, show two of the main personal tiers below.
| Package | Minimum salary (current account) | Minimum savings balance | Notable benefit |
| Plus Maximizer | AED 5,000 to AED 14,999 | AED 5,000 | 8 free teller transactions per month |
| Beyond | AED 15,000 to AED 49,999 | AED 100,000 | Free unlimited international remittances |
Above Beyond sit Priority Banking, Personal Banking Beyond and Private Banking, which the bank confirms are exempt from standard DirectRemit fees. Customers below AED 5,000 in salary typically fall under entry-level accounts with lower thresholds and a standard non-maintenance fee if the balance drops too low.
This means you should not assume that one advertised minimum balance applies to every Emirates NBD account. Check the specific account or package on the bank’s own accounts page before opening it, especially if you do not plan to transfer your salary.
How to open an Emirates NBD account
Emirates NBD lets both residents and non-residents apply digitally through the ENBD X app. The documents needed differ by residency status.
For UAE residents, per the bank’s own account-opening guidance:
- Download the ENBD X app and start a new account application.
- Verify your identity with your Emirates ID.
- Provide a valid passport and proof of address, such as a utility bill or tenancy contract.
- For a salary account, submit a salary transfer letter or recent payslips.
- Complete the face scan and digital signature to finish onboarding.
Non-residents need a valid passport with the relevant visa page, proof of address, a reference letter from their home country’s bank, and recent bank statements. Approval and account type still depend on the bank’s own eligibility checks.
Emirates NBD credit and debit cards
Cards are another major part of the bank’s personal-banking offering. Customers can choose from different credit-card categories depending on their spending habits and preferred benefits.
Available card solutions include:
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Prepaid cards
- Salary Prepay Card
- Commercial cards
- Supplementary cards
Credit-card benefits can include rewards, cashback, instalment plans, balance transfers and other lifestyle-related offers. Annual fees, interest rates and eligibility vary by card, so check the specific card’s page on Emirates NBD’s site and its Key Facts Statement before applying.
Supplementary credit cards
Existing cardholders can apply for supplementary cards for eligible dependents and, under the bank’s published terms, friends. Emirates NBD states that up to five supplementary credit cards can be issued, with eligibility extending to certain children aged over 12 and below 18.
There are currently no fees or charges for Emirates NBD supplementary credit cards according to the bank’s support information, although customers should still review the applicable terms.
Personal, auto and home loans
Customers looking for financing can access several borrowing options through Emirates NBD.
Personal loans
Personal finance can be used for various personal expenses, subject to eligibility, income, existing liabilities and the bank’s approval criteria. Emirates NBD also provides tools on its website for estimating monthly loan payments.
Rates are not universal. They can vary according to the loan amount, repayment period, customer profile and prevailing bank policy, so an advertised calculator rate should not be treated as a guaranteed offer.
Auto loans
Auto finance is available for customers purchasing new or used vehicles, with financing terms depending on the applicant and vehicle.
Before taking an auto loan, compare the total repayment amount rather than focusing only on the monthly instalment. A longer tenure can reduce the monthly payment while increasing the overall financing cost.
Home loans
Emirates NBD also provides home-financing options for eligible customers buying property in the UAE. The bank’s published loan calculator currently allows users to estimate financing over terms of up to 25 years, while actual rates and approval remain subject to bank policy.
Digital banking through ENBD X
Digital banking is a major part of the Emirates NBD customer experience. The bank’s ENBD X app and online banking services allow customers to handle many everyday banking tasks without visiting a branch.
Customers can use digital channels for activities such as:
- Checking account balances and transactions
- Managing cards
- Making transfers and payments
- Paying bills
- Managing beneficiaries
- Handling selected account requests
- Accessing banking services remotely
The bank says its digital platforms provide 24/7 access and support digital account opening through the ENBD X app using Emirates ID verification and a face scan.
For customers who prefer managing their finances from a phone, this can reduce the need for branch visits.
DirectRemit: international transfer fees by country
Emirates NBD supports both domestic and international transfers. Its digital banking services include local bank transfers, transfers between Emirates NBD and Emirates Islamic accounts, utility payments and international transfer facilities to more than 40 countries.
DirectRemit is Emirates NBD’s dedicated international remittance service, and it is not free to every destination. Since September 1, 2025, the bank charges a flat fee on most corridors, with a short list of exceptions. The figures below come directly from Emirates NBD’s own DirectRemit page.
| Destination | Currency | Per-transfer limit | Fee |
| India | INR | 1,000,000 | Zero |
| Pakistan | PKR | 1,000,000 | Zero |
| Philippines | PHP | 50,000 | Zero |
| Sri Lanka | LKR | 999,999 | Zero |
| United Kingdom | GBP | 25,000 | Zero |
| Egypt (to Emirates NBD Egypt accounts only) | EGP | 250,000 | Zero |
| Europe (Eurozone) | EUR | 15,000 | AED 26.25 (inclusive of tax) |
| Hong Kong | HKD | 15,000 | AED 26.25 (inclusive of tax) |
| Singapore | SGD | 15,000 | AED 26.25 (inclusive of tax) |
| Australia | AUD | 15,000 | AED 26.25 (inclusive of tax) |
Priority Banking, Private Banking and Personal Banking Beyond customers are exempt from these DirectRemit fees regardless of destination, per the bank’s published terms. Other corridors not listed above may carry different fees, so check the current DirectRemit country list before sending.
For international transactions, also check the exchange rate and recipient-bank charges, since a flat fee does not capture the full cost of a transfer.
ATM access and cash withdrawals
Emirates NBD debit-card customers can generally withdraw cash from Emirates NBD ATMs without a fee, with the exact treatment depending on the applicable banking package and transaction type. The bank also states that debit-card withdrawals at Emirates Islamic ATMs do not incur a fee.
Credit card cash withdrawals work differently. A cash advance fee applies, and finance charges can start from the transaction date rather than from your statement date.
We could not confirm the current cash advance rate from an Emirates NBD primary source for this update. Check the Key Facts Statement for your card before using it at an ATM.
This makes a debit card the more appropriate option for ordinary cash withdrawals when possible.
SWIFT code, IBAN and routing details
Emirates NBD’s main SWIFT/BIC code is EBILAEAD. The bank publishes it on its own transfers support page, and a SWIFT registry lists it as active for Emirates NBD Bank PJSC, Head Office, Baniyas Road, Dubai.
The routing code is 302620122. That is the number a payroll department asks for, and it is not interchangeable with the SWIFT code.
The 11-character variant EBILAEADBTA is used by some correspondent banks for the Dubai branch.
All UAE bank IBANs, including Emirates NBD’s, follow a fixed 23-character structure set by the Central Bank of the UAE: the country code “AE”, 2 check digits, a 3-digit bank identifier, and a 16-digit account number. Your own IBAN is specific to your account and appears on your statement or inside the ENBD X app; it is not the same for every customer.
For incoming international transfers, always confirm the exact IBAN and SWIFT code shown for your own account, since sending to the wrong branch code can delay a payment.
Emirates NBD fees and charges
Emirates NBD publishes one Schedule of Charges for personal banking. The figures below are from the version dated July 2026.
Several rows are identical across every personal package. Those are the ones worth remembering, and they come from the schedule dated July 2026.
| Account fee | What you pay |
| Opening the account | Free on every package |
| Maintenance fee when you miss the prescribed monthly average balance | AED 26.25 a month |
| Maintenance fee when your salary is credited as prescribed | Free on the salary packages |
| Closing the account within 6 months | AED 105.00 |
| Dormant account charge | Free |
| Teller transactions: cash in, cash out, internal transfer, cheque deposit | Between 6 and 10 free a month by package, then AED 10.50 each |
| Bulk cash deposit and withdrawal at the counter | Free |
| Returned cheque | AED 105.00 |
| Cancelling a demand draft or manager’s cheque | Free |
| Account statement by email | Free |
| Account statement printed and couriered | AED 26.25 |
| Copy of an old cheque, under 1 year | AED 10.50 per copy |
| Copy of an old cheque, over 1 year | AED 21.00 per copy |
| Breaking a fixed deposit early | You earn the applicable rate, less 1% |
What it costs to move money
Use the app. The same international transfer costs AED 26.25 online and AED 73.50 at a branch.
| Transfer | Fee |
| Local transfer through Online Banking | Free |
| Local transfer at a branch | AED 5.25 |
| International transfer through Online Banking | AED 26.25 |
| International transfer at a branch | AED 73.50 |
| Recall or cancellation of a transfer | Up to AED 26.25 |
| Copy of the SWIFT message | AED 15.75 |
AED fixed deposit rates
The 12 month term pays the most, at 2.85% a year. Locking money up for longer pays less, not more.
| Tenure | AED rate, % a year |
| Call deposit | 0.00% |
| 7 to 29 days | 0.05% |
| 1 month | 2.15% |
| 2 months | 2.15% |
| 3 months | 2.40% |
| 6 months | 2.50% |
| 12 months | 2.85% |
| 24 months | 2.50% |
| 36 months | 2.50% |
| 48 months | 2.50% |
| 60 months | 2.50% |
Closing the account
Closing costs AED 105.00 inside the first 6 months. After 6 months the schedule lists no closure charge.
Leaving an account idle is not penalised. The dormant account charge is Free on every personal package.
If a complaint goes nowhere, you are not stuck with the bank. Complain to Emirates NBD first, wait 30 calendar days from the day they received it, then escalate to Sanadak, the independent ombudsman unit created under the Central Bank of the UAE.
For example, published personal banking package information shows a AED 26.25 monthly non-maintenance fee for certain customers who do not meet the applicable balance requirement, while specific exemptions can apply, including qualifying salary-transfer customers.
Because charges can change and differ between products, customers should consult Emirates NBD’s current Schedule of Charges and Key Facts Statements before making a financial decision.
Business and corporate banking
Emirates NBD is not limited to personal customers. Its business and corporate divisions provide banking services for SMEs, larger companies and institutional clients.
Business and corporate services include areas such as:
- Business accounts
- Cash management
- Trade finance
- Corporate cards
- Working-capital solutions
- Digital business banking
- Foreign exchange
- Corporate payments
- Supply-chain finance
- API banking
For corporate customers, Emirates NBD provides digital platforms such as businessONLINE and solutions covering trade, supply-chain and transaction banking.
This makes the bank relevant not only for individual salary-account customers but also for businesses operating in Dubai and other UAE markets.
Wealth management and investment services
Customers with broader investment requirements can access wealth and investment-related services through Emirates NBD.
Its digital investment offering, ENBD X Wealth, provides access to local and international investment opportunities, including stocks and ETFs. The bank also highlights local equities and retail sukuk among its investment services.
These services are different from ordinary savings accounts and may involve investment risk, product-specific charges and suitability considerations.
Islamic banking through Emirates Islamic
Customers who prefer Sharia-compliant banking can also consider Emirates Islamic, which is part of the Emirates NBD Group. Emirates Islamic reported a quarterly profit of AED 1 billion in Q1 2026, per Emirates NBD’s own results release, underscoring its scale within the group.
Its offering includes Islamic current and savings accounts, cards, financing and other Sharia-compliant financial products. Customers should compare the specific profit structure, fees and eligibility criteria of an Islamic product rather than assuming that conventional and Islamic products have identical terms.
What should you check before opening an Emirates NBD account?
Before applying, look beyond the headline account features. A few practical checks can prevent unexpected charges later.
Check the salary requirement
Some account packages are connected to minimum salary-transfer amounts, ranging from around AED 5,000 to AED 15,000 or more depending on the tier. If your salary does not meet the relevant threshold, another account may be more appropriate.
Understand the minimum balance
If your account has a minimum monthly average balance requirement, calculate whether you can realistically maintain it. Otherwise, a monthly non-maintenance charge may apply.
Compare the total cost of cards and loans
For credit cards and financing, look at annual fees, interest or profit rates, processing charges and early-settlement conditions rather than comparing only promotional benefits.
Check your DirectRemit destination before sending
If you regularly send money outside the UAE, check whether your destination is one of the 6 free DirectRemit corridors or one of the AED 26.25 corridors, and compare that against the exchange rate offered.
Is Emirates NBD suitable for customers in Dubai?
Emirates NBD can be a practical option for customers who want several financial services under one banking relationship. Its range extends from everyday salary accounts and debit cards to loans, investments, international transfers and business banking.
The better choice depends on your actual requirements. A salaried employee may care most about minimum balance rules and digital banking, while a business owner may place greater importance on cash management and trade finance. Someone borrowing for a property will need to compare financing costs and eligibility instead.
For any product, check the current Key Facts Statement, Schedule of Charges and eligibility criteria before applying. Emirates NBD’s official product information should take priority over older third-party reviews because banking fees, rates and product conditions can change, as the September 2025 DirectRemit fee change shows.
Frequently asked questions
Is Emirates NBD a bank in the UAE?
Yes. Emirates NBD Bank P.J.S.C. is a UAE-licensed banking institution, with its registered address in Dubai and licensing by the Central Bank of the UAE.
Can I open an Emirates NBD account online?
Yes. Emirates NBD currently promotes digital account opening through the ENBD X app, using Emirates ID verification and facial verification as part of the onboarding process.
What documents do I need to open an account?
UAE residents need an Emirates ID, a valid passport, proof of address, and a salary letter or payslips for a salary account. Non-residents need a passport with visa page, proof of address, a bank reference letter, and recent bank statements.
Is Emirates NBD’s DirectRemit service free?
No, not to every country. It is free to India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, the UK, and to Emirates NBD Egypt accounts. Most other destinations cost AED 26.25 per transfer since September 2025, unless you hold Priority, Private or Personal Banking Beyond status.
What is Emirates NBD’s SWIFT code?
The main SWIFT/BIC code is EBILAEAD. The extended code for the Dubai branch is EBILAEADBTA. Always confirm the exact code shown on your own account before sending funds.
What is Emirates NBD’s customer care number?
The bank’s call center number is 600 54 0000, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, per Emirates NBD’s own customer care page.
Does Emirates NBD offer personal loans?
Yes. Personal loans are among its main retail-financing products, alongside auto loans, home loans and overdraft facilities.
Are Emirates NBD ATMs free to use?
Debit-card withdrawals from Emirates NBD ATMs are generally free, subject to the applicable package and conditions. Credit-card cash advances have separate fees and finance charges.
What is the Emirates NBD mobile banking app?
The bank’s main mobile-banking platform is ENBD X. It provides access to account management, transfers, payments, card controls and other digital banking services.
Final thoughts
Emirates NBD offers a broad banking ecosystem for individuals, families, professionals and businesses in Dubai and across the UAE. Its combination of everyday accounts, cards, financing, digital banking, international transfers, investments and corporate services means customers can access many financial needs through one banking group.
The most important step is choosing the product that matches your circumstances. Before opening an account or borrowing money, check the current minimum balance, salary requirement, applicable fees, financing rate and other terms in the bank’s latest official documents.
Is Emirates NBD the biggest bank in the UAE?
No. Emirates NBD’s own investor relations page ranks it 2nd largest in the UAE and 3rd largest in the GCC.
What is the Emirates NBD routing code?
302620122. Give this to your employer for a salary transfer, along with your IBAN and the bank address on Baniyas Road, Deira.
What does Emirates NBD charge to close an account?
AED 105.00 within the first 6 months. The July 2026 schedule lists no closure charge after that, and the dormant account charge is free.
What is the Emirates NBD fixed deposit rate?
2.85% a year on a 12 month AED deposit, the highest on the published AED list. Terms from 24 to 60 months pay 2.50%.
What happens if Emirates NBD does not resolve my complaint?
Complain to the bank first and note the date they received it. After 30 calendar days without a satisfactory answer you can escalate to Sanadak, the independent ombudsman unit created under the Central Bank of the UAE.
Official sources
Everything above is compiled from primary sources. Check these directly before you act, because fees and product terms change often and without notice.
- Official website: Emirates NBD for current products, eligibility rules and the published schedule of fees.
- Branches and ATMs: Emirates NBD’s branch and ATM locator, which states over 200 branches and 900+ ATMs and CDMs across the UAE and overseas.
- DirectRemit fees: Emirates NBD’s DirectRemit page for the current country list, limits and fees.
- IBAN format: Central Bank of the UAE’s IBAN standard.
- SWIFT/BIC lookup: Wise SWIFT code registry.
- Regulator: Central Bank of the UAE, which licenses and supervises every bank operating in the UAE and handles escalated consumer complaints.
- Credit ratings: any rating quoted above is published by the rating agency itself, such as Fitch Ratings. Ratings are reviewed periodically and can change.
- Our method: how we research each bank and what our ratings mean is set out in our editorial policy and ratings methodology.
Other major UAE banks
Still comparing? See the full list of all 62 banks licensed in the UAE, or read how we assess each one in our ratings methodology.