16.01.2026
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Why are Russian entrepreneurs and programmers actively opening bank accounts in the UAE? The banking system of the United Arab Emirates offers stability, the absence of sanctions, and modern tools. The government actively attracts international business, creating favourable conditions for non-residents of the country.
Who will benefit from this practical guide? This article will be useful for entrepreneurs running an international business, programmers with international clients, real estate investors, and wealthy individuals seeking alternatives to traditional banking.
UAE credit institutions use a differentiated approach towards residents and non-residents. Local banks are more lenient in serving clients with Emirates ID, but non-residents can also open a bank account if the necessary conditions are met.
The personal presence of the applicant at the branch is necessary. Remote account opening is unavailable for citizens of Russia. The applicant must be 21 years of age or older. Credit institutions conduct mandatory due diligence checks through international information systems.
Credit history in the country of origin influences the bank’s decision. Derogatory marks in the credit bureau reports may become an obstacle. Banks also request certificates stating the absence of debts and legal proceedings.
Contributions depend on the client's status and the type of service. For residents,the requirements for basic accounts are low, while non-residents face stricter conditions when opening an account.
Premium services require significant deposits. Private Banking is available for individuals with high net worth. Corporate accounts for companies require a substantial initial deposit.
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Credit institutions analyse the sources of origin of funds. Documentary proof of the legality of income is required. Transfers from Russian accounts undergo a funds verification process.
Emirates ID significantly simplifies the process of creating an account in the UAE; residents gain access to a full spectrum of services. The document also confirms the legality of the residence status in the country.
Non-residents need to provide a tourist or business visa. The visa validity period must exceed 30 days at the moment of submitting the documents. Some banks approve multi-visas and long-term visas of other Persian Gulf countries.
A housing tenancy contract or confirmation of address is mandatory for all categories. Banks require utility bills or letters from the landlord. Hotels are not suitable as a permanent address of residence.
Citizens of Russia undergo an enhanced verification procedure. Credit institutions request information about activities and sources of income. The document review process may take 4–8 weeks.
Sanctions restrictions influence the policy of international credit institutions. Some banks are restricting transactions with Russian individuals. Large banks strictly adhere to compliance procedures.
It is recommended to choose local UAE banks instead of foreign ones. Emirates NBD, ADCB, and Mashreq Bank are lenient towards applicants from Russia. These banks adhere to local laws rather than sanctions restrictions. Companies receive better information on services and corporate banking when working with local banks.
The process of creating an account in the UAE requires thorough preparation of documents and planning of the visit. Success depends on how well you’ll be prepared and the choice of a suitable bank for either a corporate or personal account.
The basic package includes a foreign passport with a valid UAE visa. An income certificate from the place of work or from the tax authority is also required; statements for the last 6 months confirm account activity.
| Applicant Category | Main Documents | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Private individual (resident) | Passport, Emirates ID, income certificate | Tenancy contract, utility bills |
| Private individual (non-resident) | Passport with visa, income certificate, statements | Proof of address, reference letters |
| Legal entity | Constituent documents, directors’ passports | Business plan, tax certificates |
Documents require an apostille or consular legalisation. Translations into English must be notarised. Certificates are valid for 3 months from the date of issue.
Reference letters from banks in the country of origin increase the chances of approval. The documents must contain information about the client's reputation and the nature of operations. International audit companies can provide certificates for opening corporate accounts.
The choice depends on the account's intended use and capabilities. Emirates NBD is suitable for large business and wealthy clients. ADCB offers solutions for medium-sized enterprises.
A preliminary consultation with a manager saves time. Employees explain the conditions and procedures of a specific bank. A preliminary assessment of documents and chances for account approval is also possible.
The submission of the application occurs only during a personal visit. Banks do not work with documents through representatives or courier services. An appointment for a meeting is made in advance through official channels. The opening procedure for private individuals and companies has its own specifics.
The interview with the manager can last from 30 minutes to 2 hours. The bank employee studies the documents and asks questions about the purpose of the account. You will need to explain your sources of income and planned operations.
The KYC (Know Your Customer) procedure includes a check of identity and trustworthiness. Banks use international information systems for screening their clients and check for any connections to sanctions lists or terrorist groups.
For corporate accounts, the questions will concern business activity and business partners. Banks are interested in the geography of transactions and the currencies used; the planned transfer amounts and frequency influence the final decision. Opening corporate accounts requires additional due diligence.
After approval of the application, the client makes an initial deposit. The funds must come from the applicant's personal account in another bank. Keep in mind that transfers from third parties are not eligible for the initial deposit.
Cards are issued within 7–14 working days. Debit cards are available immediately after account setup. Credit cards require review and confirmation of income. The opening of accounts for individuals and companies concludes with the activation of all banking products.
The choice of credit institution determines the convenience and accessibility of services. Each bank works with specific client segments and types of transactions.
Emirates NBD holds leading positions in corporate banking. The organisation serves large businesses and wealthy private individuals. The deposit fee for non-residents is significant.
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The bank offers complex solutions for businesses. Multi-currency accounts and trade finance are available. Private Banking serves individuals with high net worth.
The bank has branches in all major cities of the UAE. Account managers speak various languages, including Russian. The organisation maintains correspondent relations with Russian banks. Opening corporate accounts for large companies is a priority.
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank offers balanced conditions for different client categories. The deposit for non-residents is moderate. The bank is friendly to small and medium-sized businesses.
An extensive branch network ensures the availability of services. The organisation actively develops digital technologies and mobile banking. Transfer fees are competitive.
ADCB cooperates with payment systems. The organisation's cards work worldwide without restrictions. Currency exchange transactions are available at favourable rates. The bank simplifies account opening for small and medium-sized businesses.
Mashreq Bank works with digital businesses and retailers. The organisation understands the needs of digital business and freelancers. Contribution requirements for non-residents are affordable.
Simplified procedures for freelance visa holders. The bank quickly processes applications from IT employees. All popular payment systems and cryptocurrency exchanges are supported.
The online platform integrates with business applications. APIs are available for automated transactions. Fees for digital service transfers are reduced to stimulate the economy. Opening bank accounts for tech companies has been simplified.
RAK Bank attracts startups and young entrepreneurs. The bank offers preferential conditions for innovative projects, low deposits, and flexible documentation requirements.
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Commercial Bank of Dubai provides trade finance services to importers and exporters. Programmes for business structures of free economic zones are available.
Islamic banks (Dubai Islamic Bank and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank) offer Sharia-compliant financing. Businesses receive information on specialised solutions and fund management in accordance with religious principles. Account opening procedures for Islamic companies are adapted to Sharia requirements.
Resident status significantly simplifies service and expands available financial instruments. There exist several ways to obtain long-term UAE visas.
Registering a business in a free economic zone gives the right to an investor visa. Investment requirements vary depending on the zone. The visa is issued for 2-3 years and can be extended.
Popular Free Zones include DIFC, ADGM, and Dubai Multi Commodities Centre. Each zone specialises in specific types of activities. Digital companies usually choose Dubai Internet City or Abu Dhabi Global Market.
The registration process takes 2–4 weeks. A business plan and proof of investment are required. The entity must demonstrate actual commercial activity to renew its license.
The investor visa extends to the spouse and children under 18 years old. Parental support is available upon meeting financial requirements. The visa allows multiple entries and exits. Opening a company office in a Free Zone simplifies access to banking services.
Purchasing real estate of a certain value qualifies you for an investor visa. The visa is issued for 5–10 years depending on the investment sum. The property must be located in specially approved locations.
Dubai offers a wide range of investment opportunities. Popular locations include Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Business Bay. Abu Dhabi develops projects on Saadiyat Island and in the Capital Centre.
Investments in commercial real estate also qualify for obtaining the visa. Office buildings, shopping centres, and warehouse complexes are included in the programme. Renting out real estate to third parties is permitted and encouraged.
Banks willingly finance the purchase of real estate by residents. Mortgage loans are available at attractive interest rates; the down payment is a percentage of the property's value. Taking out a mortgage to purchase real estate simplifies the investment process.
Employment in a local organisation entitles you to a work visa. The employer acts as the sponsoring party and guarantees compliance with labour legislation. The visa is tied to a specific employer and place of work.
The freelance visa was introduced to attract remote employees. The visa is issued for 1 year with the possibility of renewal; your income must meet the established requirements. The specialization must be included in an approved list.
Popular freelance visa areas include programming, design, marketing, and consulting. Applicants need to confirm their qualifications with diplomas and a portfolio of works. They must also have at least three years of work experience.
Advantages of a freelance visa include:
Many IT companies and consulting firms use freelance visas to attract talent. Opening accounts for freelancers with such visas follows a simplified procedure.
The actual cost of opening an account exceeds the official bank fees. These costs include expert services, documentation legalisation, and accompanying expenses.
Professional help in opening an account has a determined cost. Experts will help you choose a suitable bank and prepare documentation. Accompaniment and translation services are included in the price.
Legal services are required for documentation legalisation. The cost of an apostille varies per document. Notarial translations into English have established prices per page.
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Premium expert companies offer comprehensive services. Packages include visa processing, housing search, and bank account opening. The cost of this service is significant.
Initial payments vary widely. Funds are locked into the account balance and do not earn interest. Reducing the balance below the established limit entails penalties.
Monthly account maintenance has an established cost. Premium packages include services and benefits. Fees for international transfers are charged per transaction.
Card issuance is free for basic products. Premium cards require an annual payment. Card service abroad includes commissions for cash withdrawal and currency conversion.
Air tickets and accommodation in the UAE constitute a significant share of expenses. Accommodation in a hotel has set rates per night.
Several visits may be required to complete the procedure. Sometimes banks request additional documentation or clarifications. Plan for at least 2–3 trips for a guaranteed result.
Saving money is possible by independently preparing documentation and choosing budget banks. The costs will be significantly lower in a favourable scenario.
Remote account opening is unavailable for citizens of Russia. All banks require a mandatory personal visit for identification and an interview. Representatives or proxies cannot submit documentation on behalf of the client.
The standard application processing time is 2–4 weeks for residents and 4–8 weeks for non-residents. Citizens of Russia face verification checks, which may prolong the waiting time. Cards are received within 7–14 business days after approval.
Local banks Emirates NBD, ADCB, and Mashreq Bank are accommodating to clients from Russia compared to their global peers. These banks comply with local laws and are less susceptible to sanctions restrictions between countries.
Residency significantly simplifies the procedure of creating an account but is not a mandatory condition. Non-residents can open an account with a valid UAE tourist or business visa. However, fees for non-residents are significantly higher.
All documents issued outside the UAE require an apostille or consular legalisation. Income certificates, statements, and educational documents must be translated into English and notarised. The validity of these certificates cannot exceed three months.
Sanctions restrictions complicate the procedure of opening an account and may prolong the application review time. Banks conduct verification checks of clients from Russia through global information systems. It is recommended to choose local UAE banks, which are less subject to restrictions between countries.
UAE banks consider applications from organisations registered in other jurisdictions, including offshore zones. Corporate account requirements include documentation of beneficial owners, a business plan, and proof of actual commercial activity. Fees for offshore companies are increased.
All major UAE banks provide full access to digital platforms, regardless of the client's residency status. The mobile application and internet banking are activated after receiving the card. Functionality includes transfers, payments, and real-time account management.
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