A notable financial hub in the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates economy is stimulated through the functional role of its banking sector. Discovering a suitable bank boasts similar results for residents, expats, and businesses.
In addition, all the country's banks are regulated under the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE). 22 local and 30 foreign banks exist in the UAE, whereas 60% of the banking revenue is generated from the five largest banks. This demonstrates that the country’s largest banks dominate the entire banking sector.
Furthermore, among the total of 52 banks, some of the UAE banks provide Islamic services to their customers (both UAE nationals and expatriates). It has been observed that Islamic banks in the UAE account for 19% of the total banking division.
Additionally, the business-oriented atmosphere of the UAE has stimulated extreme competition among financial institutions, banks, and other financial service-providing companies.
The stability of the UAE banking sector has been approved by Moody’s and has sufficient liquidity to meet the requirements. Explore the guide of best banks in Dubai, each evaluated on the basis of digital banking tools and expat-friendly services.
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List of Best Banks in UAE
1. Emirates Islamic Bank
As one of the most successful Islamic financial institutions in the UAE, Emirates Islamic Bank provides Sharia-compliant banking services to retail, corporate, and high-net-worth customers. It was founded in 2004 but has experienced continuous growth to have 68 branches and approximately 100 ATMs in the UAE, and it serves a large population of customers within the Emirates. By 2025, the bank had a total asset management of about $30 billion, which serves as a testimony to its financial stability.
Emirates Islamic is specialised in the full service provision, such as personal banking, business banking, corporate banking, and online banking, which is appealing to the local and expatriate population. The strategic initiatives and the consistent performance of the bank have also enabled it to have a credible client base in a market that is becoming more competitive.
Why Prefer Emirates Islamic Bank
- Wholesome Sharia-compliant banking products.
- Broad network - 68 branches and approximately 100 ATMs.
- Good digital and mobile banking systems.
- Supported by strong assets and customer confidence.
2. Emirates National Bank of Dubai (ENBD)
Positioned as a pillar of the UAE's banking sector, Emirates NBD emerged with the collaboration of Emirates Bank International (EBI) and the National Bank of Dubai (NBD).
The UAE’s second and fourth largest banks have merged to create the Emirates National Bank of Dubai. This commingling proves to be the most giant amalgamation in the GCC.
In addition, ENBD's operations are spread across three continents and over 10 states, with its headquarters in Dubai. Emirates NBD employs approximately 9,500 individuals, with over 1,079 ATMs and SDMs in the UAE and beyond.
The operations of ENBD are also found in various business segments, including wholesale banking, Islamic banking, operations and information technology, international, wealth management, and retail banking.
Moreover, the bank also supports certain key services like Wakala Deposits and Factoring. These are utilized to strengthen companies' liquidity when selling their encountered bills. Lastly, the provision of personal loans has made ENBD stand out among other banks in Dubai.
Why Prefer Emirates NBD
- Boasts digital banking services
- Special banking packages for expats
- UAE’s extensive ATM network
- Top-tier banking services
3. Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB)
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank is known for its top-tier services, customer-centric approach, and advanced banking solutions. Established in the 1850s, ADCB has emerged as one of the best banks in Dubai for expats because of its all-around financial services and products.
In addition, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank operation services manage Islamic banking, commercial banking, and retail banking. Furthermore, the Abu Dhabi Investment Council holds 58% of ADCB’s shares and stands out among the three most credible and largest banks in the United Arab Emirates.
Additionally, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank services encompass Treasury Banking, Property Management, Consumer Banking, Investments, and Wholesale Banking.
Why Prefer Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank
- ADCB services offer banking packages for expats. Some of these packages include preferential loan rates and free international transfer.
- The total assets as of 2022, i.e., AED 446 Billion, have provided a top standing to ADCB.
- The excellent customer service and advanced digital banking plans boost the acclaimed strength of ADCB Bank.
4. Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB)
Established in 1997 with a headquarters stationed in Abu Dhabi, ADIB is one of the top banks in Dubai. The bank prefers Shariah-compliant banking and is a top contender for the best bank in UAE for expats, with an emphasis on young clients.
One of the premier advantages of ADIB is the provision of student ISIC cards, which reward students for the wise management of their financial reserves. The operational segments offered by Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank include Global Wholesale Banking, Global Retail Banking, Treasury, Real Estate, and Private Banking.
In addition, ADIB offers services in 4 countries besides the UAE, encompassing Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and Egypt.
Moreover, profitable trade and cash management solutions are among ADIB's key services. These solutions are directed at the capital requirements for working and are often referred to as financial and business institutions.
Why Prefer ADIB Bank
- Smart banking options with e-accounts, make banking easy.
- Comprehensive Islamic Banking products are offered at ADIB.
- Customized financial solutions for ex-pats.
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5. Bank of Baroda
One of the most established foreign commercial banks that is in operation in the UAE is the Bank of Baroda. It has over 100 years of banking experience and global connectivity to its customers in the Emirates. It has a large presence in the region, having numerous branches and 45 ATMs in the UAE, which primarily serve businesses, expatriate clients, and cross-border trade-related customers.
This UAE network is a part of the bigger network of Bank of Baroda, which has more than 100 branches and more than 100 offices in 24 countries around the world and hence becomes a good option for customers who require solid overseas connections.
Why Prefer Bank of Baroda
- History of international banking.
- Complete banking in various cities of the UAE.
- It is a firm advocate of trade finance and remittances.
- Suitable for the expatriates and international banking requirements.
6. Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB)
With its visionary headquarters in Dubai and a foundation laid in 1975, Dubai Islamic Bank holds a distinctive status in the UAE banking industry.
Also, the bank has a full-fledged basis for Islamic services, characterized by Islamic finance solutions for the nationals of the UAE. The bank operates in consumer banking, treasury, corporate banking, real estate developments, and other business segments.
Typically, Dubai Islamic Bank is an ideal option for those seeking Shariah-compliant banking services. Its customer base includes around 1.7 million clients who are offered services through its 90 branches, which are expanded across the UAE.
Why Prefer DIB Bank
- With its key services, Islamic Susuk Investment and Johara Ladies Savings Account, DIB stands out in the UAE banking sector.
- It is tailored to fulfill business requirements with Shariah-compliant solutions.
- Vital customer service, specifically with easy application procedures for expats, makes DIB an ideal bank in UAE.
7. HSBC Bank Middle East Limited
The HSBC Bank Middle East Limited is among the oldest and most widely represented international banks in the UAE and has been in operation since 1946. It is locally based in Dubai, offering full financial services in the retail, commercial, corporate, and private banking sectors.
Being a member of the international HSBC Group, the bank works with millions of clients around the world and also has a great network of branches located in major cities. As a company with a large presence and experience in the world, HSBC will make a good selection of clients who require international banking services.
Why Prefer HSBC
- Member of an international network comprising more than 40 million customers.
- Extensive presence of branches in the emirates of the UAE.
- Powerful corporate, wealth, and international banking solutions.
- Apposite to mobile clients around the world.
8. Mashreq Bank
Established in 1967, Mashreq Bank is the oldest bank in the UAE, headquartered in Dubai. Furthermore, its affiliation with the Joint Stock Company and HSBC Group has proliferated its branches in the UAE.
The inclusion of mobile appointments has added an additional dimension to customer service, allowing customers to transfer money across 20 countries freely. The provision of an abundance of products is advisable for both UAE nationals and expats.
Mashreq Bank UAE provides operational services in Investment Banking, Islamic Banking, brokerage services, commercial banking, and Asset Management.
An employment source for 4,000 individuals, the bank has 46 local and 21 international branches, with countries mainly including Bahrain, Qatar, Egypt, and Kuwait. The key services of Mashreq Bank include Mashreq Neo, offering discounts, reward credits, and cashback.
Why Prefer Mashreq Bank?
- Its competitive mortgage products and personal loans excel in the list of top banks in UAE.
- Extensive expat banking solutions are a value added to your bank account.
- With UAE’s first digital banking services, Mashreq Bank has been granted an edge.
9. Standard Chartered Bank
Standard Chartered Bank was founded in 1958 and is positioned as one of the UAE’s largest international banks. The bank has a stringent presence in the UAE, with its first branch opened in Sharjah and ATMs seamlessly opening across the country.
Its operational services include both Islamic and conventional banking, and it is renowned among expatriates for its international banking services. The exceptional products include a savings account meticulously tailored for children to offer higher interest rates.
In addition, cashback offers stiffen the benefits of preferring Standard Chartered Bank services. Moreover, the bank also offers cheap insurance policies, perfect for both expats and UAE nationals.
Why Prefer Standard Chartered Bank
- A robust global banking with secure banking services.
- Extensive Wealth Management solutions adding value to your account.
- Catered to provide specialized expat banking services inclusive of flexible terms and competitive rates.
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10. Ajman Bank
Ajman Bank is an Islamic bank based in the UAE, located in the Emirate of Ajman, and was established in 2007. It has extended its reach with branches and ATMs in the country, serving the individuals and the corporate customers with Sharia-compliant retail and business banking services.
The bank is a strategic stakeholder in the local economic development and financial inclusion, especially after it was strongly supported by the Ajman government (with ownership of 25%).
Its product offering comprises personal financing, business accounts, treasury services, and digital banking devices. Ajman Bank has demonstrated consistent growth, as the number of customers depositing and the total assets have increased with the increasing demand for ethical banking within the UAE market.
Why Prefer Ajman Bank
- Financial products that are Sharia-compliant.
- Wide branch and ATM network throughout the UAE.
- It is supported by the Ajman government.
- Dwelling on individualised customer service.
Closing In
Your financial experience greatly depends on the right bank, catering to the needs and requirements of UAE nationals and expats. The above-listed banks offer tremendous benefits and services to meet diverse needs.
In addition, expats in Dubai can take advantage of the best banks in the city, including ADCB and Emirates NBD. The customized services of the top banks in UAE make banking beneficial and convenient for all.
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