A zero balance account in UAE presents a simple and flexible banking option to manage your money without the stress of maintaining a minimum balance. Whether you're a student, a new expat, or a non-salaried or a salaried individual, this type of account gives you access to convenient banking features — all without any monthly fees or balance penalties.
When you plan to open a zero balance account in UAE, you will find plenty of options from various banks. This can certainly make it confusing to make a choice, especially when considering the importance of these accounts in helping you manage and grow your money. To help you make a choice, here are some of the top banks that provide this option —
1. FAB iSave Account
The FAB iSave Account is a digital savings account designed for easy online access and attractive interest rates. With no monthly fees or minimum balance requirement, it’s ideal for those looking to grow their savings conveniently. It is definitely one of the best zero balance accounts as there are no restrictions on the number of withdrawals you make. Open an FAB iSave account easily through online banking.
Feature Type
Description
Currency
Open an account in AED currency
Eligibility
All UAE residents with a minimum salary of AED 5,000 are eligible to open an account
Interest Rate
The bank account offers you an attractive interest of 4.50% per annum
Cash Withdrawal
One of the standout features is that you can withdraw cash without limit and without incurring an additional charge
Banking Channels
You can open a FAB iSave account instantly via internet banking and mobile app banking from anywhere across the globe
Looking for the best zero balance account for your business? Open an account with RAKstarter by RAKBANK — exclusively tailored for small and new businesses. One of the outstanding features of the account is that it supports multiple currencies. With attractive interest rates on all the available currencies, the RAKstarter account is designed for ease and convenience. It is ideal for those looking for easy banking solutions in their initial business journey.
Feature Type
Description
Business Support
A wide variety of business financing products is available when you open an account
Currency
Open an account in any of the currencies available — USD, AED, GBP, and EUR
Interest Rate
The account offers an attractive interest rate ranging between 0.10% and 0.25% per annum
Chequebook Facility
Open an account and receive one chequebook for free every year
Additional Fee
The account does not charge a ledger fee
Extra Benefits
Get attractive Trade Finance and Foreign Exchange rates
Relationship Manager
Get an assigned Dedicated Relationship Manager for efficient account management
The Emirates Islamic current account offers a Shariah-compliant banking solution with flexibility for everyday transactions. As one of the best zero balance accounts available in multiple currencies, it provides you access to a free debit card, online and mobile banking facilities, and more. Ideal for individuals and businesses, it supports easy fund transfers, bill payments, and cash withdrawals.
Note that no minimum maintenance balance is required if you transfer your salary to Emirates Islamic Bank.
Feature Type
Features
Currency
Open a bank account in any of the available currencies — AED, GBP, EUR, CAD, JPY, SAR, QAR, KD, BHD, and OMR
Debit Card
Get an internationally recognised debit card for free on account opening
Salary Transfer
You don’t have to mandatorily transfer your salary to an Emirates Islamic bank account
Checking Facilities
Checking facilities are available for all UAE resident customers
Online Banking Facility
Register yourself with internet and mobile app banking and use all the services for free from anywhere across the world
Account Opening Balance
Maintain only a minimum account opening balance of AED 3,000
Why is the CBD eSaver one of the best zero-balance accounts? The answer lies in your contribution towards the environment — whenever you increase your average balance by AED 25,000, CBD plants a mangrove tree on your behalf. After opening it, you get an e-certificate representing your commitment to a sustainable future.
That’s not all — it is a 100% cardless digital account with an instant account opening process. You can easily access your bank account online, view your account balance, access monthly statements, and fetch all other bank-related information.
Feature Type
Description
Salary Requirement
Open an account with a monthly salary of AED 5,000 or more
Interest Rates
Enjoy competitive interest rates of up to 1.25% per annum
Number of Transactions
Make up to 3 transactions every month without any impact on the interest rates
Supports a Green Environment
Receive quarterly updates on the total number of planted mangrove trees
Online Banking Facilities
Easily fetch your bank account details via internet and mobile banking
HSBC E-Saver Account multi-currency account eases your money management by offering competitive fixed interest rates. This interest rate applies to the entire balance and is paid monthly into your account. With no monthly maintenance fee, you can easily manage your account and make transactions whenever you want. Opening an account in another currency? No worries — you can still transfer funds within the UAE through this zero balance account.
Feature Type
Description
Account Opening Fee
The bank does not charge a fee for opening an account
Interest Rate
Enjoy competitive interest rates of up to 3% AER (Fixed)
Joint Account
You can easily open a joint account
Savings
Top up your savings via recurring monthly payments or lump sum deposits
Cash Withdrawal Facility
Get easy access to cash through the online banking and telegraphic transfer facility
Relationship Manager
Get a Dedicated Relationship Manager for effective account management
ADIB’s best zero balance account is a Shariah-compliant product. One of its best features is that it can only be opened digitally. This means you can open bank account without being required to visit a bank branch in person. For mobile banking, you can easily get the app on the Google Play Store and the App Store. Irrespective of your employment status, you are eligible to open the ADIB digital bank account.
Feature Type
Description
Profit
Start earning profit from AED 1, with the profit being paid monthly on the average balance
Salary Requirement
Open an account with a minimum monthly salary of AED 5,000
Money Transfer
Make 1 domestic and 1 international money transfer through mobile banking for free
Number of Account Holders
The account can be managed by a single individual
Currency
Open an account in AED currency
Salary Transfer
Salary transfer is not mandatory, although you can earn a bonus on transferring your salary
Chequebook
Get a chequebook subject to your income eligibility
Additional Perks
Earn Smartbonus
Get free access to ADIB ATMs for deposits and withdrawals
Exclusive draws are conducted monthly and semi-annually
Availability of the Member program for existing members
With extensive benefits and digital account features, the Liv. account by Emirates NBD is definitely among the best zero balance accounts. It not only rewards you with competitive interest rates on your fixed deposits but also lets you invest in gold. Request for a Liv. Cashback card on opening an account and earn exceptional cashback on each transaction. Besides, enjoy a wide range of offers and promotions with the debit card.
Feature Type
Description
Digital Banking
This account is the UAE’s 1st digital bank powered by Emirates NBD
Money Management
Manage and keep track of your funds with money management features
Fixed Deposit Scheme
Accelerate your wealth with the fixed deposit scheme
Gold Investment
Invest in gold digitally in fractions starting from as low as AED 10 Buy and sell units through the Liv X app without holding any physical quantities
Fund Transfer Fee
No additional fee is charged for transferring funds
A 0 balance account UAE is the same as a regular bank account. The only difference is that you don’t need to maintain a minimum monthly balance. You can open this type of account with a few documents. Once active, you’ll receive a debit card, online banking access, and the ability to transfer money or receive salary payments. Some of them may have basic transaction limits or be linked to your employer. Note that there are usually no maintenance fees unless you use add-on services.
All in all, this type of account is a simple, cost-effective solution.
Online Bank Account Opening with Zero Balance in UAE — Key Advantages
Here are the perks that you get with a UAE bank account without minimum balance requirement —
No Minimum Balance Required - You don’t need to worry about keeping a specific amount in your account. Whether your balance is AED 50 or AED 5,000, there are no penalties or fees.
Ideal for Low-Income Earners or Starters - Perfect for students, freelancers, or anyone starting a job in the UAE, they can be opened and used without the pressure of maintaining high funds.
Easy Salary Transfers - Many employers transfer salaries into zero balance accounts. It’s a convenient and stress-free way to receive your monthly income.
Basic Banking Services Included - You still get access to essential banking features like a debit card, online banking, ATM withdrawals, and even mobile banking apps.
No Hidden Charges - Most zero balance accounts have minimal or no monthly fees, which helps you save more.
Accessible for Expats - Most banks in the UAE offer these accounts to expats, making it easier to manage finances from day one.
How to Open a Zero Balance Bank Account in UAE via Paisabazaar.ae?
Choosing a zero balance account in UAE can be confusing. With Paisabazaar.ae, however, comparing the top options and applying for the best one is as easy as it gets!
Here are the key eligibility and documentation requirements —
Eligibility Criteria
For Income-Based Applicants
For Non-Income-Based Applicants
Your monthly salary must be at least AED 5,000
The account must be entirely for personal use
You must be either a salaried individual or a business owner
Applicants who are housewives and hold a housewife visa status
The account must be used for personal purposes only
In the case of a student, you must have a student ID
Documents Checklist
Valid Emirates ID (applicable to both UAE nationals and residents)
Valid UAE residence visa
Original passport
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can open a zero balance account in the UAE?
Salaried individuals, non-salaried individuals, students, freelancers, company employees, and small business owners are eligible to open a zero balance account in the UAE, subject to certain terms and conditions.
Do I need to make a salary transfer to open a zero balance account?
Salary transfer is not mandatory in all banks. Some require it while others don’t. It is advisable to follow up with the respective bank before submitting your application for opening an account.
Which bank is best for a zero balance account in UAE?
There is no such bank account considered the best — the choice depends on your financial preferences. With that said, you can consider some of the top zero balance accounts such as HSBC E-Saver account, CBD ESaver account, and FAB iSave account.
Can expats open a zero balance account?
Yes, expatriates are eligible to open a zero balance account in the UAE. However, just like other applicants, they must ensure fulfilment of certain terms and conditions as per the bank and the type of account.
Are there any hidden charges with zero balance accounts?
Usually, no. Most banks and financial institutions don’t charge any account maintenance fees. However, you must always check for service charges or transaction limits.
Can I get a debit card with a zero balance account?
Yes, most banks provide a debit card for free. However, they may charge other fees, such as a card replacement fee.
Are zero balance accounts eligible for online banking?
Yes, you can access your zero balance account via both internet and mobile banking. A zero balance account works exactly like a current or a savings account in this regard.
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