FAB First Abu Dhabi Bank Review for Expats 2026
FAB First Abu Dhabi Bank review for expats in 2026: account types, fees, mobile app, and how to open an account from inside the UAE.
Opening an Account with FAB
First Abu Dhabi Bank requires a valid Emirates ID and passport for most expats. You can open a standard savings account in a branch or through the FAB mobile app in under 15 minutes if your salary is credited locally. Minimum balance starts at AED 3,000 for the Everyday Account; no monthly fee applies if you maintain this balance.
Account Types and Monthly Fees
The Priority Banking tier needs AED 350,000 in deposits or AED 40,000 monthly salary credit. It removes most fees and gives dedicated relationship managers. The standard current account charges AED 25 per month if the balance falls below AED 3,000. Both accounts include free local transfers and up to five free international transfers per year.
Mobile App and Digital Services
The 2026 FAB app lets you open accounts, apply for credit cards, and book appointments without visiting a branch. Biometric login, instant peer-to-peer transfers via mobile number, and real-time spending alerts are included. Push notifications for salary credits and bill payments arrive within seconds of the transaction posting.
Credit Cards and Rewards
Expats with six months of salary history can apply for the FAB Visa Signature card. It earns 2% cashback on groceries and fuel, capped at AED 300 per month. Annual fee is AED 700, waived the first year. Lounge access at Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports is limited to four visits yearly.
Customer Service and Branch Access
Phone support answers in English, Arabic, Hindi, and Urdu within two minutes during business hours. Most branches operate 8 am to 3 pm Sunday to Thursday. You can book video calls with relationship managers directly inside the app for urgent queries outside branch hours.
Pros and Cons for Expats
- Quick account opening for salary transfers
- Competitive cashback on everyday spend
- Lower international transfer fees than most UAE banks
- Branch queues can be long on salary days
- Some features require Priority Banking status
Ask Tovi for more
Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything. Ask Tovi free →
Got more UAE questions?
Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →
Frequently asked questions
What documents do expats need to open a FAB account?▾
Valid Emirates ID, passport, and proof of address. Salary certificate speeds approval for higher-tier accounts.
Does FAB charge for international transfers?▾
Up to five free transfers per year for standard accounts. Additional transfers cost AED 75 each.
Can I open a FAB account without a UAE salary?▾
Yes, but you need a minimum deposit of AED 10,000 and may face higher fees until salary credit starts.
Still have questions about banking?
Ask Tovi — your free AI assistant for UAE life. Instant answers in 10+ languages, 24/7.
Ask Tovi about banking →