Essential tips for opening a corporate bank account in the UAE

A reliable banking system is often one of the primary considerations of investors and entrepreneurs before entering a venture in a foreign land.

Fortunately, the UAE is known for having a stable national currency and efficient banking system. The governing authority of UAE’s financial institutions, Central Bank, is tasked to ensure that banks possess a high level of efficiency, confidentiality, and security for all types of end-consumers like business entities.

Newly established businesses go through the process of opening a corporate bank account, which usually comes after a successful company formation. This task is crucial as it involves the company’s finances and overall credibility of the business.

If you are already on the verge of opening your corporate bank account, here are some tips to help you in the process:

• Make sure to prepare a comprehensive CV that matches your business activity

Your CV is one of the essential proofs that you are equipped with the right industry knowledge of your chosen business activity. An updated LinkedIn profile where banks can verify and check your professional history is very helpful to prove your credentials. Always make sure you establish the correlation between your professional background and the nature of your business.

• Prepare a copy of all your corporate documents and supporting papers

Once you have received all your incorporation papers, prepare a copy of everything to present to the bank and bring along original copies if necessary. These documents will go through an internal verification before your corporate bank account is approved. Take note that some banks may or may not require more of the basic requirements listed  below:

• Corporate account application form
• Trade License
• Certificate of Incorporation/Registration
• Share Certificate
• Memorandum and Articles of Association
• Board Resolution authorising a Company Officer to open the account
• Passport copies with residence visas of shareholders and authorised signatories
• Comprehensive CVs
• Business Plan
• Choose a local bank that meets your requirement

Most banks require all corporate accounts to maintain a minimum balance. Thankfully though, UAE banks offer several account options that meet the requirements of various types of businesses. Minimum balance ranges typically from AED 20,000 to AED 500,000 depending on which bank you choose to open your account.

• Build the credibility of your business to ensure its approval

Most banks will need adequate proofs that your business is running legitimately and legally in the UAE. To build your business credibility, you may also want to bring supporting documents such as utility bill for address verification, proof of an office facility or space, invoices issued to your suppliers or customers, and copies of contracts and agreements among other things.

• Build a relationship with your banker

Compliance is a must when it comes to banks, and it shouldn’t stop there. Building a good relationship with your bank, especially with your dedicated banker, will make your life easier in the long run. You can start by being fully transparent with your finances. Inform your bank in advance about large payments or important transactions as this will not only expedite the process but also allow your banker to give you proper advice when you need it.

Before opening your corporate bank account, the company formation specialists at Decisive Zone can provide you with initial advice on your bank options in the UAE. They can introduce you to the relevant banking personnel and guide you with completing the required documents to fast track and simplify the hefty process.

Decisive Zone is a business setup company helping you find the best-suited solution when establishing a company in UAE. Decisive Zone will advise you on the corporate structure and jurisdiction to choose from, while covering all technical, administrative and financial aspects of UAE business setup.

© Press Release 2019