Our carefully curated selection of the best credit cards, banks, savings accounts, and investment platforms available in the UAE.
This website does not contain any paid advertisements, sponsored content, or paid promotions. All product recommendations, reviews, and opinions expressed are entirely personal opinions based on publicly available information and personal research. We do not receive any compensation, commissions, or financial benefits from any financial institutions mentioned.
Best cards for cashback, travel, and rewards
Premium travel card for Emirates frequent flyers. Earn Skywards miles on all purchases with bonus earning on Emirates bookings. Includes complimentary airport lounge access and travel insurance.
Premium cashback card with high rewards on dining and groceries. Offers lifestyle benefits and competitive cashback caps. Good for everyday spending.
Straightforward cashback on all purchases without category restrictions. Simple rewards structure with no minimum spending requirement. Annual fee may apply.
Earn TouchPoints on all purchases, redeemable for cash, flights, or shopping. Enhanced earning with ADCB partner merchants. Good for those in ADCB ecosystem.
Entry-level rewards card with competitive cashback. Lower income requirement makes it accessible. Suitable for those starting to build credit.
• Always pay your full balance each month to avoid high interest rates (typically 30-42% APR)
• Look for cards with no foreign transaction fees for international purchases
• Consider the annual fee vs. benefits - sometimes premium cards pay for themselves
• Salary transfer to the issuing bank often improves approval odds and welcome offers
Best banks for everyday banking, digital experience, and service
One of the largest banks in the UAE with extensive branch and ATM network. Offers LIV, a digital-only banking option for younger customers. Comprehensive product range.
UAE's largest bank by assets. Strong corporate relationships and comprehensive banking services. Good options for both personal and business banking.
Known for digital innovation with Mashreq Neo offering fully digital account opening. Good mobile app experience and competitive products.
Strong retail banking presence with competitive rates. TouchPoints loyalty program spans multiple partners. Good branch network, especially in Abu Dhabi.
Customer-friendly with lower salary requirements than major banks. Good option for new residents and those with moderate income. Simple and transparent products.
• Consider salary transfer benefits - banks often offer better rates and waived fees when you transfer your salary
• Check the mobile app quality before committing - you'll use it frequently
• Compare account maintenance fees and minimum balance requirements
• Look at the ATM network coverage in areas you frequent
Best rates for growing your emergency fund and savings
Digital-first savings account with competitive rates. No minimum balance required, instant account opening via app. Rates may vary based on promotions.
Tiered interest rates that increase with balance. Easy access through UAE's largest branch network. Good for larger balances.
Online-only savings account with competitive rates. No branch visits required. Seamlessly links to FAB current accounts.
Solid rates with TouchPoints earnings on balance. Good integration with ADCB's broader ecosystem. Reliable option for existing ADCB customers.
Youth-focused digital bank with gamified savings goals. Fun interface and competitive rates. Perfect for younger savers and digital natives.
• Interest rates change frequently - verify current rates directly with banks before opening
• Consider fixed deposits for higher rates if you don't need immediate access
• Some promotional rates apply only for limited periods - read the terms carefully
• Keep your emergency fund in an easily accessible savings account
Best platforms for stocks, ETFs, and long-term investing
Industry-leading global broker with access to 150+ markets in 33 countries. Extremely competitive fees, professional-grade trading tools, and excellent for both beginners and advanced investors. Highly regulated (SEC, FCA, etc.).
UAE-based robo-advisor regulated by DFSA (Dubai Financial Services Authority). Low minimum investment, diversified ETF portfolios, and Sharia-compliant options available. Great for hands-off investors.
DFSA-regulated with local UAE presence. Wide range of assets including stocks, bonds, forex, and more. Offers local customer support and educational resources.
Singapore-based robo-advisor available in UAE. Risk-based portfolios with automatic rebalancing. User-friendly mobile app experience.
For trading on Dubai Financial Market and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. Multiple local brokers available. Good for UAE-focused investing.
• Verify the platform is properly regulated (DFSA, ADGM FSRA, or home country regulator)
• Compare total fees including management fees, trading fees, and currency conversion costs
• For beginners, robo-advisors like Sarwa offer simpler entry points
• For active traders, Interactive Brokers offers comprehensive global access
For remittances and international transfers
Best For: Competitive exchange rates
Mid-market exchange rate with transparent, low fees. Multi-currency account available. Good for regular international transfers.
Best For: Cash pickup options
Large global network for cash pickups. Higher fees but extensive reach. Good for sending to locations with limited banking.
Best For: Local presence
Extensive branch network in UAE. Competitive rates for popular corridors like India, Pakistan, Philippines.
Best For: Mobile transfers
Express transfers with competitive rates. Easy mobile app. Check for promotional rates on first transfers.
The information and recommendations on this page are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. Product features, rates, fees, and availability are subject to change and may vary based on individual circumstances. Always verify current terms directly with the financial institution before making any decisions. The rankings reflect personal opinions and are not based on any paid partnerships or sponsorships. Please conduct your own research and consider consulting with a licensed financial advisor for personalized advice.
