Best Zero Balance Account in UAE - 2025

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.

Best Zero Balance Saving Account in UAE?

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
Click here to Open FAB iSave Account

2. RAKstarter Account

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
Click here to Open RAKstarter Account

3. Emirates Islamic Current Account

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

4. CBD eSaver Account

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
Click here to Open CBD eSaver Account

5. HSBC E-Saver Account

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
Click here to Open HSBC E-Saver Account

6. ADIB Smartbanking Account

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
  • Access Money smart community
Click here to Open ADIB Smartbanking Account

7. Emirates NBD Liv. Account

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
Click here to Open Emirates NBD Liv. Account

How Does a Zero Balance Account in UAE Work?

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.

Open bank Account

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's how you can choose and apply —

  1. Click here to view the lead form
  2. Complete the form and submit it
  3. Go through the list of options and compare them
  4. Select an account that suits you the best
  5. Proceed and submit your application

0 Balance Account Opening Online UAE — Requirements

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.

More From Bank Accounts

  • Recent Articles