A Complete Guide to Zero Balance Bank Accounts in UAE (2025)
Zero balance accounts are especially beneficial for those who want to avoid minimum balance requirements. Some bank accounts in the UAE impose penalties for maintaining a balance below 3,000 AED while zero balance accounts offer a solution to this problem. Here we will tell you the names of the top 5 zero balance accounts in 2025 and how to open your account in them. You can open these zero balance accounts with no paperwork, no branch visits.
What Exactly Is a Zero Balance Account?
When I first moved to Dubai in 2022, I initially thought that zero balance accounts were just regular, low-interest bank accounts, which was actually a misconception. But I later realized that I was wrong because zero balance accounts can actually be very beneficial.
Here’s the deal:
- No minimum balance: Let your account reach AED 0 without fees (unlike traditional accounts that charge up to AED 25/month).
- Full banking features: Debit cards, mobile apps, even interest/profit sharing.
- Salary-friendly: Many banks offer 150-2,000 AED cash bonuses for salary transfers.
Some banks label these as “smart” or “digital” accounts (e.g., ADCB Hike). Don’t let yourself get confused here they are still at zero balance!
Top 5 Zero Balance Accounts in 2025
I have personally opened accounts with all these banks to test their claims. Which I have shared with you below. If you also want to open your 0-balance account in these banks, then click on the apply button and open your bank account online.
1) FAB iSave Account
- Interest Rate: iSave Account Get up to 5.25% on new deposits
- Features: Unlimited withdrawals, instant online setup, open your account with zero paperwork.
- Eligibility: Only UAE residents can benefit from this account (no salary required).
- Best for: A great choice for high-interest seekers and digital nomads.
How to Apply:
- Download the FAB Mobile app.
- Upload your Emirates ID and visa.
- Receive your virtual card instantly.
FAB iSave Account Interest rate 2025
| Band Balance | Interest rate range (per year) |
|---|---|
| < AED 500,000 | Up to 2.465% |
| AED 500,000 to < AED 5,000,000 | 2.465% to 3.251% |
| ≥ AED 5,000,000 | 3.251% and less |
My Experience:
- Why I Love It: Last month, I earned AED 87 in interest on a AED 20,000 deposit—thanks to their 5.25% rate on new funds.
- Best For: Savers who want high returns without lock-in periods.
- Drawback: No physical branches for support.
2) ADIB Smart Banking Account
- Profit Sharing: Earn Bonus on Every Dirham Saved + Referral
- Features: Free International Transfers (1/Month), Smart Deals App Discounts (1,500+ Offers).
- Eligibility: Salary ≥ 5,000 AED or Dependent Status (Student/Housewife).
- Best for: Families and Salary Earners.
My Experiance:
- Why It Stands Out: Halal profit-sharing (I earned AED 120 last quarter) + free international transfers to countries like India/Pakistan.
- Best For: Ethical banking enthusiasts and frequent remitters.
- Watch Out: Requires a 5,000 AED salary for the salary account version.
3) Emirates NBD Liv. Account
- Interest Rate: Up to 1.5% p.a. + 50% off dining/leisure.
- Features: Fully digital onboarding, budgeting tools, free Visa debit card.
- Eligibility: Age 18+, valid Emirates ID.
- Best For: Tech-savvy millennials and students.
4) ADCB Hayyak Account
- Flexibility: Open with just an Emirates ID, no salary proof needed.
- Features: Multi-currency support (AED/USD/GBP), 24/7 mobile banking.
- Eligibility: Residents and non-residents.
- Best For: Expats and freelancers.
5) RAKBANK Fast Saver
- Interest Rate: Up to 0.5% p.a. + free utility bill payments
- Features: AED/USD options, 1 free withdrawal/month.
- Eligibility: UAE residents.
- Best For: Budget-conscious users.
How to Open a Zero Balance Account Online
Follow these steps to open your account in under 10 minutes:
- Choose Your Bank: Compare features using the table below.
- Visit the Bank’s Website/App: e.g., Liv. App for Emirates NBD or FAB Mobile.
- Upload Documents: Emirates ID, passport, residence visa, and salary certificate (if required).
- Submit Application: Track status via SMS/email.
- Activate Your Card: Delivered to your doorstep within 3–5 days.
Pro Tip: Non-residents can opt for ADCB Hayyak or HSBC eSaver, which accept international applicants.
Comparison of Best Zero Balance Accounts in UAE
We have explained in detail about 5 zero balance requirements bank accounts here, including the name of the bank, interest rate, minimum salary, and key features.
| Bank | Interest Rate | Minimum Salary | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| FAB iSave | 5.25% | None | Highest interest for new funds |
| ADIB Smart | Profit-based | 5,000 AED | Free int’l transfers + referrals |
| Emirates NBD | 1.5% | None | Lifestyle discounts & app tools |
| ADCB Hayyak | Tiered rates | None | Multi-currency support |
| RAKBANK | 0.5% | None | Free utility payments |
Hidden Fees & Traps to Avoid
Most banks advertise “zero balance,” but some sneak in charges. Here’s what to watch:
- Excess Transaction Fees: Emirates NBD Liv. allows 5 free transfers/month—after that, AED 5/transaction.
- Card Replacement Costs: RAKBANK charges AED 50 if you lose your debit card.
- Currency Conversion Margins: ADIB adds a 1.5% markup on USD-to-AED transactions.
My Advice: Always check the bank’s Schedule of Charges (usually buried in the footer of their website).
FAQs
Yes! FAB iSave, ADCB Hayyak, and RAKBANK do not require proof of salary.
Most banks allow 3–5 free transactions/month (e.g., CBD ESaver).
Yes—check FAB iSave (5.25%) or ADIB Smart Banking (profit-sharing).
Banks may convert your account to a regular savings type or charge fees.
Absolutely! ADCB Hayyak and Liv. accept students—just submit your Emirates ID and visa.
Most banks label it “inactive” and charge AED 25/month (ENBD does this). Avoid this by setting a small auto-transfer.
Conclusion
If you are a freelancer/expat, then you can opt for ADCB Hike (multi-currency + no salary proof) account. If you are a salaried person, then you should opt for ADIB Smart Banking (profit sharing + remittance benefits).
Remember: I struggled with AED 3,000 balance fees as a new expat now I help others avoid these traps. Rates/features checked with UAE Central Bank guidelines as of January 2025. Banks don’t pay me these are 100% unbiased recommendations.
