The process of opening a bank account in the UAE using an international number in 2025 might appear to be a complicated affair, but in reality, it is the simplest it has ever been. Everyone can now enjoy the access of the UAE banking system without any hassle, even if they don’t get a local SIM card, no matter if they are expatriates, freelancers, remote workers, or business owners.
It is through personal experience that I, Asmar Azam Khan, representing HoorInfoPro, am giving out my story and the step-by-step procedure for opening an account without any hitches, avoiding the waiting time, and enjoying the benefits of the modern digital banking tools.
Why You Might Need to Use an International Number
Many newcomers or remote professionals in the UAE may not have a local SIM card immediately. There are several reasons for this:
- Waiting for your Emirates ID or residence visa
- Preference for keeping your home country number active
- Being a digital nomad managing multiple international accounts
The good news is that top UAE banks have modernized their KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures. They now allow international numbers to be used for registration, verification, and even for receiving OTPs (one-time passwords).
When I first opened my UAE bank account, I was still using my Pakistani mobile number. While there were some extra verification steps, the process went smoothly once I had the required documents and knew the procedure.
Types of Bank Accounts in the UAE
Before starting the application, it’s essential to understand which type of account fits your needs.
| Type of Account | Eligibility | Minimum Balance | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Savings Account | Residents & Non-residents | AED 0 – 3,000 | Individuals saving or earning interest |
| Current Account | UAE Residents (with visa) | AED 3,000 – 5,000 | Daily transactions & salary deposits |
| Business Account | Business owners/freelancers | AED 10,000+ | SMEs, startups, freelancers |
| Non-Resident Account | Non-residents | AED 0 – 5,000 | Foreign investors or remote workers |
Each account has its specific features, and choosing the right one simplifies the onboarding process.
Step-by-Step Guide: Opening a UAE Bank Account Using an International Number
Step 1: Choose the Right Bank
Not all banks accept international numbers for registration, so selecting the right bank is critical. Based on my research and experience, the most flexible banks in 2025 include:
- Mashreq Neo—fully supports international numbers through the app
- Emirates NBD—supports international numbers with proper KYC
- ADCB (Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank)—allows registration via app or branch
- RAKBANK – partial support; may require in-person verification
- Liv by Emirates NBD—app-based, supports international clients
- WIO Bank—designed for freelancers and non-residents
When I opened my first account, I chose Mashreq Neo because it allowed me to register directly using my international number, with instant verification via WhatsApp.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Each bank may have slightly different requirements, but here’s the universal checklist to prepare:
- Passport (Original + Copy)
- Residence Visa (if available)
- Emirates ID (optional at the start)
- Proof of Address (utility bill, tenancy contract, or bank statement)
- International Mobile Number (active for OTP verification)
- Proof of Income/Employment Letter (for salary accounts)
When I went to the branch, my banker used my passport and entry stamp as temporary ID because my Emirates ID was still being processed.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Online Application
Most UAE banks now have online portals or mobile apps:
- Download the bank’s app (e.g., Mashreq Neo or Liv)
- Start your application and enter personal details
- Input your international number, including the country code
- Receive OTP via SMS or WhatsApp to verify your number
In-Person Application
If you visit a branch, the banker can manually register your international number. You will still receive verification codes for account activation.
Pro Tip: Ensure roaming is enabled on your international number; otherwise, OTP messages may fail.
Step 4: Verification and KYC
The KYC (Know Your Customer) process verifies your identity and address. Depending on the bank, you may also need:
- Bank statement from your home country
- Proof of foreign address
- Additional income verification
In my case, Mashreq Neo scheduled a video verification call, during which I presented my passport and answered questions such as
- Purpose of opening the account
- Current residence
- Monthly income range
The verification lasted less than 10 minutes, and I received email confirmation the next day.
Step 5: Deposit the Minimum Balance
Some banks require a minimum deposit to activate the account:
| Bank | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|
| Emirates NBD | AED 3,000 |
| Mashreq Neo | AED 0 – basic account |
| WIO Bank | AED 0 – freelancers/startups |
I transferred AED 1,000 from my Pakistani account to Mashreq Neo via Wise (formerly TransferWise). Funds arrived within 24 hours, and my account became fully operational.
Step 6: Access Your Account
Once verified, you can use your mobile app or online dashboard to:
- View account balance and transactions
- Make international transfers
- Pay bills and mobile top-ups
- Request debit/credit cards
I vividly remember receiving my first UAE debit card while still using my international number—a satisfying milestone in digital banking.
Tips from Personal Experience (Asmar Azam Khan)
- Use a trusted SIM with roaming enabled; I used Jazz Pakistan successfully
- Keep soft copies of all documents on your phone for uploads
- Double-check the international dialing code to avoid delays
- Avoid VOIP numbers (Google Voice, Skype); they are not accepted
- Use WhatsApp for customer support, which many banks actively offer
Patience is key. UAE banks are strict with security, but once you pass verification, the process is smooth and fast.
Top UAE Banks That Accept International Numbers in 2025
| Bank Name | Account Type | International Number Support | Mobile App Opening Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mashreq Neo | Savings, Salary | ✅ Fully Supported | ✅ Yes |
| Emirates NBD | Savings, Current | ✅ Supported with KYC | ✅ Yes |
| ADCB | Savings, Current | ✅ Supported | ✅ Yes |
| WIO Bank | Business, Freelancer | ✅ Supported | ✅ Yes |
| RAKBANK | Savings | ⚠️ Partial Support | ✅ Yes |
| Liv by Emirates NBD | Savings | ✅ Supported | ✅ Yes |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using inactive or roaming-disabled SIMs
- Submitting unclear passport copies
- Entering the wrong country code
- Skipping verification calls
- Using unregistered email addresses
Even a minor typo in your email or number can delay verification by days, as I personally experienced.
Can You Open a UAE Bank Account Without Visiting the UAE?
Yes—certain banks like WIO Bank and Mashreq Neo allow fully online account opening for non-residents using video verification. You will need:
- Valid passport
- Foreign bank statement
- Home address for verification
This feature is ideal for remote workers, freelancers, and foreign investors who need a UAE account without physically being in the country.
Conclusion
In 2025, opening a bank account in the UAE with an international number is no more a challenge. The process has become purely technology-driven, secure, and globally accessible through banks like Mashreq Neo, WIO Bank, and Liv by Emirates NBD.
Based on my own experience, once your documents are in order and if you carefully follow the steps, your account can be active in just a few days. This is a huge convenience for expats, freelancers, and business owners who can enjoy easy access to UAE banking services without having to get a local number at the very beginning.
Regardless of whether your account is personal savings or business, if you follow these steps you would surely have a smooth and hassle-free experience.
FAQs
- Can I open a UAE bank account before getting a UAE number?
Yes, many banks allow online KYC and OTP verification using an international number. - Which banks support international mobile numbers?
Mashreq Neo, WIO Bank, Liv by Emirates NBD, and ADCB are the most flexible. - Do I need a UAE residence visa to open a bank account?
For non-resident or savings accounts, it’s not mandatory. For salary or current accounts, yes. - How long does it take to open a UAE bank account?
Typically 1–3 business days after successful verification. - Can I use my account for business transactions?
Yes, provided you declare your purpose and submit necessary business documents.
Written by: Asmar Azam Khan
Website: HoorInfoPro
1 thought on “How to Open a UAE Bank Account Using an International Number (Step-by-Step 2025)”