Frequently asked questions

Opening a business bank account with Emirates NBD is straightforward. You’ll need to provide key documents such as the trade license, Memorandum of Association, passports, Emirates IDs of the company owners, and a board resolution (if applicable). The process can be started online, through the mobile app, or by visiting one of the branches. Once the documents are verified, the account can be set up, and you’ll gain access to all business banking services.

A valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID are generally required to open an account with Emirates NBD. Non-residents may be eligible for limited types of accounts, but these are subject to additional requirements and conditions.

Account opening can be completed quite quickly once all documents are provided. In some cases, the process is finalized on the same day, while in others it may take a few working days depending on verification and compliance checks.

Certain Emirates NBD accounts can be opened digitally through the bank’s mobile app or online banking platforms, especially for existing customers or UAE residents with Emirates ID. Non-residents usually need to visit a branch in person.

Yes. Dubai offers: 

• Low crime rates and strict law enforcement 
• Modern healthcare system and high-quality international schools 
• Family-friendly infrastructure: parks, entertainment, and recreational facilities

Approximate monthly living costs:

• One person: $2,500–$3,000 (rent, utilities, groceries, transport, insurance) 
• Family of four: $6,000–$7,000 (3-bedroom apartment, car, school, groceries, utilities, insurance, entertainment)

*Costs depend on lifestyle, location, and family needs.

Yes, but it depends on your visa type: 

• Freelance visa: For self-employed professionals providing permitted services. 
• Investor/property visa: Buying property or starting a company in a free zone or mainland. 

To work legally for a company, a UAE employment visa is required; tourist visas cannot be used for work.

Dubai has no personal income tax, but some taxes and fees apply:

• VAT: 5% on most goods and services (few exemptions).
• Corporate tax: 9% on profits exceeding AED 375,000 for businesses; individuals with turnover under AED 1 million are exempt.
• Dubai housing fee: 5% of annual rent, charged via DEWA (utilities bill), usually paid by tenants.
• Property registration fee: 4% of property value in Dubai (DLD), 2% in Abu Dhabi, paid to local authorities.
• Hotel & tourism tax: 7–20 AED (~$2–$5.50) per night; hotel sales (food, beverages, services) also subject to 7% municipality fee.

Residency visas in Dubai typically last from two years (work, freelance, or investor visas) up to ten years (Golden Visa). Most visas can be renewed or extended before expiry, provided you continue to meet eligibility requirements.

Yes. You don’t need to be employed by a UAE company to live in Dubai. Residency can be obtained through other routes, such as property investment, setting up a business, obtaining a freelance licence, or holding a sufficient deposit in a bank.