A UAE bank account is not automatic once you hold a licence. Banks run their own onboarding, and the file you present decides how long it takes. This is the checklist we use with clients.
Company documents
- Trade licence and certificate of incorporation
- Memorandum and articles of association
- Share certificates and board resolution to open the account
- Office lease or flexi desk agreement
Shareholders and signatories
- Passport, visa page and Emirates ID for each shareholder and signatory
- Proof of address, dated within three months
- CV or professional profile of the signatory
- Personal bank statements, usually six months
Business evidence
A short business plan, sample invoices or contracts, supplier and customer details and an explanation of where the initial capital comes from. This is where most files are weak, and where our preparation makes the difference.
Why applications are declined
Three reasons account for most declines: an activity the bank considers high risk, an unclear source of funds, and inconsistency between the business plan and the licence. All three are fixable before submission.
