verything founders should prepare before visiting the Business bank account (or applying online)
Opening a business bank account is a crucial step in setting up your startup in the UAE, whether you’re registering in a Free Zone or on the mainland. UAE banks, both traditional and digital, require specific documents to comply with KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) regulations.
This guide outlines the key documents you’ll need, and how we help make the process faster and more professional.
Required Documents for Business Account Opening in the UAE
Here’s what most banks (and digital banking platforms) will ask for:
1.Valid Trade License or Certificate of Incorporation
This proves your company is legally established. For Free Zone companies, this is issued by the relevant authority (e.g., DMCC, IFZA, etc.).
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2. MOA & Company Structure Documents
- Certified copy of the Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA / AOA)
- List of current directors (signed and dated)
If any documents were issued outside the UAE, they must be attested by the UAE Embassy in the issuing country, and then legalized by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
3.Board Resolution to Open a Bank Account
This document formally authorizes the signatory to open and operate a bank account on behalf of the company.
- If your MOA already names authorized signatories, this step may not be required.
- The board resolution should be printed on official company letterhead.
Tip: Brand Box includes a professionally designed letterhead with your logo and brand colors, ready for printing or digital use.
Need a Board Resolution sample? Click here to Download a Free Board Resolution Template
4.Power of Attorney (If Applicable)
If someone other than a listed director will be managing the account, you’ll need a notarized Power of Attorney document confirming their authority to:
- Open, Operate and close bank accounts
- Sign documents
- Borrow or authorize transactions
If the powers are already detailed in the board resolution, a separate POA may not be needed.
5.Identification Documents
Most banks require:
- Valid original passports for all directors and authorized signatories
- Emirates ID and residence visas for signatories
For digital banks, digital document uploads and video verifications are often accepted.
6.Free Zone Letter (If Newly Incorporated)
Some Banks will ask for a letter from Free Zones confirming your intent to open a business account, especially if your company is newly formed.
Additional KYC Documents
You’ll also be asked to complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) form that includes:
- Nature of business and main activities
- Estimated annual turnover
- List of key suppliers/clients (countries & % of business)
- Anticipated transaction volume:
- Cash deposits/withdrawals
- Cheque usage (monthly volume)
- Local and international transfers (countries & percentages)
- Beneficiary/remitter details and their countries
- FATCA compliance form
What is FATCA?
FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act) is a US regulation requiring foreign banks to report accounts held by US citizens/entities to the IRS.
How Brand Box Helps
If you’re applying for a bank account, banks look for professional presentations, not just legal compliance.
Every Brand Box package includes:
- A custom logo
- Official letterhead
- Company profile (great for KYC and credibility)
- Branded business emails
- A responsive website to prove your online presence
Need it fast? Our Fast Track package delivers it all in just 5 days ideally if you’re trying to open the account before travel or a deadline.
Final Tip
Startups who prepare all required documents and present a clean, cohesive brand identity often experience faster approvals and more banking options.
Need help preparing your bank-ready branding?
Explore our Lite Package, designed specifically to get your business account-ready in 21 days.
Just remember that requirements can vary slightly between banks — so don’t stress. Gather the essentials, start the process, and adjust as needed until you find the right fit for your business banking in the UAE.
