First Abu Dhabi Bank: What You Need to Know About Dubai's Top Financial Institution

When it comes to banking in the UAE, First Abu Dhabi Bank, the largest bank in the United Arab Emirates by assets and a key player in regional finance. Also known as FAB, it serves millions of customers across the country with everything from personal accounts to business loans and wealth management. If you're living in Dubai or planning to move there, FAB isn't just another bank—it's one of the first names you'll hear when setting up your finances.

FAB isn't just big because of its size. It's trusted because it works for both locals and expats. Whether you're opening your first account in Dubai, sending money overseas, or looking for a mortgage to buy property, FAB offers services designed for real life—not just fancy brochures. Many expats choose FAB over other banks because its app is simple, its customer service is responsive, and it supports multiple currencies without hidden fees. It also partners with major global networks, so you can withdraw cash in over 100 countries without extra charges. Unlike smaller banks that focus only on high-net-worth clients, FAB makes basic banking easy—even if you're just starting out.

It’s also tied to Dubai’s bigger economic story. FAB doesn’t just handle your salary or rent payments—it’s involved in major projects across the UAE. From financing infrastructure to supporting small businesses, its role goes beyond ATMs and credit cards. If you’ve ever seen a new building go up in Business Bay or a luxury hotel open on Palm Jumeirah, there’s a good chance FAB helped fund it. That’s why many people who work in real estate, construction, or tourism in Dubai end up banking with them. Even if you’re not investing in property, knowing that your bank is deeply connected to the city’s growth gives you peace of mind.

And while FAB is headquartered in Abu Dhabi, its presence in Dubai is everywhere. You’ll find branches in Dubai Mall, Business Bay, and near major metro stations. Their digital services are just as strong—online account setup takes minutes, and their chatbot handles most common questions without you needing to call anyone. For expats, that’s huge. No more waiting in line at the bank because you need to change your visa details or update your address. FAB lets you do it all from your phone.

It’s worth comparing FAB to other big names like Emirates NBD or Dubai Islamic Bank. FAB stands out because it blends traditional banking reliability with modern tech. It doesn’t push Islamic finance like DIB, but it offers flexible options if you need them. And unlike some banks that make you jump through hoops for foreign transfers, FAB’s international wire system is straightforward and fast. If you’re sending money home weekly or paying for online subscriptions, this matters.

So if you’re looking for a bank in Dubai that’s stable, widely available, and built for real people—not just millionaires—FAB is one of your best choices. Whether you’re here for a few months or planning to stay for years, knowing how FAB works can save you time, money, and stress. Below, you’ll find real posts from locals and expats who’ve used FAB for everything from opening accounts to getting loans. No fluff. Just what actually works.