Closing Your UAE Bank Account Before Leaving: Required Steps

Quick answer

Closing a UAE bank account requires three mandatory clearances before the bank will accept your request: an end-of-service certificate from MOHRE, proof of loan or credit-card clearance, and confirmation that no holds or negative balances remain. Without these, banks refuse closure and may report the account as dormant, damaging your AECB score. The process takes 7-14 working days once all documents reach the bank. In 2026, most banks still require in-branch submission in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

Obtain end-of-service certificate from MOHRE

Download the End of Service Certificate through the MOHRE app or website after your employer cancels your work permit. The document must show your final salary payment and any gratuity paid. Banks accept only the digital certificate bearing a MOHRE stamp and issued within the last 30 days. If you are a free-zone employee, use the free-zone authority portal to generate the certificate; it takes 2-3 days.

Clear all loans and credit facilities

Request a No Liability Letter from every bank or finance company that issued you a personal loan, car loan, or credit card. In 2026 the fee for each No Liability Letter is AED 100-150 per facility. Pay any outstanding balance plus interest accrued to 30 June 2026. Once cleared, the bank sends the letter automatically to your registered email within 3-5 days. Include all letters with your closure request.

Check for holds and negative balances

Log into the bank app or visit a branch to run a full account status report. Look for any hold placed by MOHRE, Dubai Courts, or TRA. Negative balances must be settled in cash or transfer before submission. Most banks run an internal check that<|eos|>

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