Three things that unlock almost everything else in the UAE: your Emirates ID, a bank account and a local SIM. Here is how to get all three sorted as fast as possible.
Emirates ID
The Emirates ID is your most important document in the UAE. More important than your visa for daily life.
- Mandatory for all UAE residents, including children and babies. Children under 15 do not do biometrics but still need a card.
- Required for banking, tenancy, healthcare, school enrolment, government services and SIM registration.
- Since 2024, it is also your proof of residency. It replaces the physical visa sticker in your passport.
- Renewal runs on the same cycle as your visa. Start 30 days before expiry. Fine: AED 20 per day after the 30-day grace period.
Bank account
Getting a bank account sorted early makes everything else easier. Rent cheques, DEWA deposits and school fees all flow through it.
Documents you need:
- Passport
- Emirates ID
- UAE residency visa
- Proof of address: Ejari certificate or DEWA bill
- Salary certificate or employment letter (for salaried employees)
Digital banks (fastest):
- Wio Bank — Zero minimum balance, fully app-based, open in hours. Great for freelancers and business owners too.
- Liv by Emirates NBD — Zero balance, app-only, quick setup. Good for day-to-day personal banking.
Traditional banks:
- Emirates NBD — Largest UAE bank, good network, 3-5 business days. Minimum balance AED 3,000-5,000.
- ADCB, Mashreq, FAB — All solid options.
- HSBC UAE — Good if you have an existing HSBC relationship.
SIM card
- Two providers: e& (formerly Etisalat) and du. Both have good coverage across all seven emirates.
- Bring your Emirates ID and passport to any branch or kiosk.
- Monthly plans start from around AED 55 for basic data and calls.
- WhatsApp calls and video calls work fine in the UAE. VoIP services like Skype are restricted.
Key apps to download on arrival
- ICP UAE
- Dubai REST
- DEWA
- RTA Dubai
- UAE Pass
- Careem or Uber
- Noon or Amazon.ae
- Talabat (food delivery)
- Zomato
- WhatsApp (everyone uses it for business here)
Information correct as of June 2026. Always verify at official sources before acting.