First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) Review for UAE Free Zone Companies 2026
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) is UAE’s largest bank by market capitalisation and a leading choice for Abu Dhabi-focused businesses. Here is the complete 2026 review.
In this guide:
FAB Overview
- Type: UAE government-linked; Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) is largest shareholder
- Assets: AED 1+ trillion; UAE’s largest by market cap
- Strength: Abu Dhabi government and ADNOC relationships; GCC and international presence
FAB Business Banking for Free Zone Companies
- FAB Business: Comprehensive SME banking suite
- Current account: AED and multi-currency
- Trade finance: Strong trade finance capabilities; LCs, guarantees, documentary collections
- Online banking: FABusiness online and mobile app
FAB Account Opening for Free Zone Companies
- Required: Trade licence; MOA; passport copies; UAE visa for signatory
- KYC: Detailed KYC process; source of funds; business proof
- Timeline: 2-6 weeks for account opening approval
FAB Accessibility by Free Zone
- ADGM and KIZAD: FAB is particularly well-positioned for Abu Dhabi free zone companies
- Dubai free zones: JAFZA, DMCC, IFZA accepted; standard KYC
- Northern UAE free zones: Possible but more scrutiny; allow extra time
FAB vs Emirates NBD
- Abu Dhabi focus: FAB better for Abu Dhabi-focused business
- Dubai focus: Emirates NBD better for Dubai-centric operations
- Both: Most UAE businesses maintain accounts at both for redundancy