A zero balance account in UAE presents a simple and flexible banking option to manage your money without the stress of maintaining a minimum balance. Whether you’re a student, a new expat, or a non-salaried or a salaried individual, this type of account gives you access to convenient banking features — all without any monthly fees or balance penalties.
Best Zero Balance Account in UAE?
1. FAB iSave Account
The FAB iSave Account is a digital savings account designed for easy online access and attractive interest rates. With no monthly fees or minimum balance requirement, it’s ideal for those looking to grow their savings conveniently. It is definitely one of the best zero balance accounts as there are no restrictions on the number of withdrawals you make. Open an FAB iSave account easily through online banking.
| Feature Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Currency | Open an account in AED currency |
| Eligibility | All UAE residents with a minimum salary of AED 5,000 are eligible to open an account |
| Interest Rate | The bank account offers you an attractive interest of 4.50% per annum |
| Cash Withdrawal | One of the standout features is that you can withdraw cash without limit and without incurring an additional charge |
| Banking Channels | You can open a FAB iSave account instantly via internet banking and mobile app banking from anywhere across the globe |
2. RAKstarter Account
Looking for the best zero balance account for your business? Open an account with RAKstarter by RAKBANK — exclusively tailored for small and new businesses. One of the outstanding features of the account is that it supports multiple currencies. With attractive interest rates on all the available currencies, the RAKstarter account is designed for ease and convenience. It is ideal for those looking for easy banking solutions in their initial business journey.
| Feature Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Business Support | A wide variety of business financing products is available when you open an account |
| Currency | Open an account in any of the currencies available — USD, AED, GBP, and EUR |
| Interest Rate | The account offers an attractive interest rate ranging between 0.10% and 0.25% per annum |
| Chequebook Facility | Open an account and receive one chequebook for free every year |
| Additional Fee | The account does not charge a ledger fee |
| Extra Benefits | Get attractive Trade Finance and Foreign Exchange rates |
| Relationship Manager | Get an assigned Dedicated Relationship Manager for efficient account management |
3. Emirates Islamic Current Account
The Emirates Islamic current account offers a Shariah-compliant banking solution with flexibility for everyday transactions. As one of the best zero balance accounts available in multiple currencies, it provides you access to a free debit card, online and mobile banking facilities, and more. Ideal for individuals and businesses, it supports easy fund transfers, bill payments, and cash withdrawals.
| Feature Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Currency | Open a bank account in any of the available currencies — AED, GBP, EUR, CAD, JPY, SAR, QAR, KD, BHD, and OMR |
| Debit Card | Get an internationally recognised debit card for free on account opening |
| Salary Transfer | You don’t have to mandatorily transfer your salary to an Emirates Islamic bank account |
| Checking Facilities | Checking facilities are available for all UAE resident customers |
| Online Banking Facility | Register yourself with internet and mobile app banking and use all the services for free from anywhere across the world |
| Account Opening Balance | Maintain only a minimum account opening balance of AED 3,000 |
4. CBD eSaver Account
Why is the CBD eSaver one of the best zero-balance accounts? The answer lies in your contribution towards the environment — whenever you increase your average balance by AED 25,000, CBD plants a mangrove tree on your behalf. After opening it, you get an e-certificate representing your commitment to a sustainable future.
That’s not all — it is a 100% cardless digital account with an instant account opening process. You can easily access your bank account online, view your account balance, access monthly statements, and fetch all other bank-related information.
| Feature Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Salary Requirement | Open an account with a monthly salary of AED 5,000 or more |
| Interest Rates | Enjoy competitive interest rates of up to 1.25% per annum |
| Number of Transactions | Make up to 3 transactions every month without any impact on the interest rates |
| Supports a Green Environment | Receive quarterly updates on the total number of planted mangrove trees |
| Online Banking Facilities | Easily fetch your bank account details via internet and mobile banking |
5. HSBC E-Saver Account
HSBC E-Saver Account multi-currency account eases your money management by offering competitive fixed interest rates. This interest rate applies to the entire balance and is paid monthly into your account. With no monthly maintenance fee, you can easily manage your account and make transactions whenever you want. Opening an account in another currency? No worries — you can still transfer funds within the UAE through this zero balance account.
| Feature Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Account Opening Fee | The bank does not charge a fee for opening an account |
| Interest Rate | Enjoy competitive interest rates of up to 3% AER (Fixed) |
| Joint Account | You can easily open a joint account |
| Savings | Top up your savings via recurring monthly payments or lump sum deposits |
| Cash Withdrawal Facility | Get easy access to cash through the online banking and telegraphic transfer facility |
| Relationship Manager | Get a Dedicated Relationship Manager for effective account management |
6. ADIB Smartbanking Account
ADIB’s best zero balance account is a Shariah-compliant product. One of its best features is that it can only be opened digitally. This means you can open bank account without being required to visit a bank branch in person. For mobile banking, you can easily get the app on the Google Play Store and the App Store. Irrespective of your employment status, you are eligible to open the ADIB digital bank account.
| Feature Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Profit | Start earning profit from AED 1, with the profit being paid monthly on the average balance |
| Salary Requirement | Open an account with a minimum monthly salary of AED 5,000 |
| Money Transfer | Make 1 domestic and 1 international money transfer through mobile banking for free |
| Number of Account Holders | The account can be managed by a single individual |
| Currency | Open an account in AED currency |
| Salary Transfer | Salary transfer is not mandatory, although you can earn a bonus on transferring your salary |
| Chequebook | Get a chequebook subject to your income eligibility |
| Additional Perks | Earn Smartbonus Get free access to ADIB ATMs for deposits and withdrawals Exclusive draws are conducted monthly and semi-annually Availability of the Member program for existing members Access Money smart community |
7. Emirates NBD Liv. Account
With extensive benefits and digital account features, the Liv. account by Emirates NBD is definitely among the best zero balance accounts. It not only rewards you with competitive interest rates on your fixed deposits but also lets you invest in gold. Request for a Liv. Cashback card on opening an account and earn exceptional cashback on each transaction. Besides, enjoy a wide range of offers and promotions with the debit card.
| Feature Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Digital Banking | This account is the UAE’s 1st digital bank powered by Emirates NBD |
| Money Management | Manage and keep track of your funds with money management features |
| Fixed Deposit Scheme | Accelerate your wealth with the fixed deposit scheme |
| Gold Investment | Invest in gold digitally in fractions starting from as low as AED 10 Buy and sell units through the Liv X app without holding any physical quantities |
| Fund Transfer Fee | No additional fee is charged for transferring funds |
How Does a ccin UAE Work?
A 0 balance account UAE is the same as a regular bank account. The only difference is that you don’t need to maintain a minimum monthly balance. You can open this type of account with a few documents. Once active, you’ll receive a debit card, online banking access, and the ability to transfer money or receive salary payments. Some of them may have basic transaction limits or be linked to your employer. Note that there are usually no maintenance fees unless you use add-on services.
All in all, this type of account is a simple, cost-effective solution.
Online Bank Account Opening with Zero Balance in UAE — Key Advantages
Here are the perks that you get with a UAE bank account without minimum balance requirement —
- No Minimum Balance Required – You don’t need to worry about keeping a specific amount in your account. Whether your balance is AED 50 or AED 5,000, there are no penalties or fees.
- Ideal for Low-Income Earners or Starters – Perfect for students, freelancers, or anyone starting a job in the UAE, they can be opened and used without the pressure of maintaining high funds.
- Easy Salary Transfers – Many employers transfer salaries into zero balance accounts. It’s a convenient and stress-free way to receive your monthly income.
- Basic Banking Services Included – You still get access to essential banking features like a debit card, online banking, ATM withdrawals, and even mobile banking apps.
- No Hidden Charges – Most zero balance accounts have minimal or no monthly fees, which helps you save more.
- Accessible for Expats – Most banks in the UAE offer these accounts to expats, making it easier to manage finances from day one.
0 Balance Account Opening Online UAE — Requirements
Here are the key eligibility and documentation requirements —
Eligibility Criteria
| For Income-Based Applicants | For Non-Income-Based Applicants |
|---|---|
| Your monthly salary must be at least AED 5,000 The account must be entirely for personal use You must be either a salaried individual or a business owner | Applicants who are housewives and hold a housewife visa status The account must be used for personal purposes only In the case of a student, you must have a student ID |
Documents Checklist
- Valid Emirates ID (applicable to both UAE nationals and residents)
- Valid UAE residence visa
- Original passport
Conclusion
If you’re considering a zero-balance account in the UAE, it’s a good option especially if you don’t want the stress of maintaining a fixed monthly minimum. You get almost all standard banking services, often with competitive interest, especially in digital accounts. The “best” one really depends on your specific needs — whether you value interest rate, multi-currency, business vs personal use, digital access, or extra perks (like green banking).
Source:
https://www.paisabazaar.ae/bank-accounts/articles/best-zero-balance-savings-account-in-the-uae
