Searching for the best UAE banking apps in 2025? For expats settling in Dubai or elsewhere in the Emirates, choosing the right digital bank is essential. From VAT registration tools for freelancers to low-cost international transfers, these apps offer the features you need to manage money in the UAE with ease.
This guide ranks the top 5 UAE banking apps based on usability, features, fees, and real feedback from expats. Whether you’re sending money home, opening a business, or just need a reliable day-to-day app, we’ve done the comparison for you.
Ranked: Top UAE Banking Apps in 2025 for Expats
1. Liv. – Best Mobile-First UAE Banking App for Freelancers
Best for digital natives and flexible lifestyle banking
- App Store Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5 on iOS, 4.2/5 on Android)
- Ideal for: Young professionals, freelancers, and side hustlers
Key Features:
- Instant account opening with Emirates ID
- Smart budget tracking and goal saving
- Multi-currency support for travel & FX
- Integrated access to credit cards and business loan options
- Lifestyle rewards & offers for UAE-based spenders
Expat Pros:
- English-first UX
- Seamless international transfers
- Useful for freelancers who need to apply for VAT registration
Hidden Fees to Watch:
- Some FX rates include a small margin
- Monthly inactivity fee if balance is below AED 2,500
Download on Google Play Store or App Store
2. Mashreq Neo – UAE App for Business Banking and VAT Support
Best all-in-one solution for serious banking and business needs
- App Store Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.1/5 on iOS, 4.0/5 on Android)
- Ideal for: Established expats and SME owners
Key Features:
- Paperless account opening
- Free debit and credit card delivery
- Direct salary deposit and payroll system support
- In-app access to business loan applications
- VAT dashboard to help register business for VAT
Expat Pros:
- Dual-language support (English/Arabic)
- In-app chat & WhatsApp customer service
- High international transfer limits
Hidden Fees to Watch:
- AED 26.25 (incl. VAT) monthly fee if minimum balance isn’t maintained
- Additional fees for non-Mashreq ATM withdrawals
Download on Google Play Store or App Store
3. ADCB Hayyak – Easy UAE Banking App for Families
Best for account setup speed and family-focused expats
- App Store Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5 on iOS, 4.3/5 on Android)
- Ideal for: Families and long-term UAE residents
Key Features:
- Account setup in under 10 minutes
- In-app bill payments, school fee transfers, Salik recharge
- Salary transfer support with credit card options
- Optional insurance and loans from within the app
Expat Pros:
- Friendly UI with robust English UX
- Excellent reputation for customer care
- Good for those managing household and school-related expenses
Hidden Fees to Watch:
- AED 25 monthly fee below balance threshold
- Some fees apply for international SWIFT transfers
Download on Google Play Store or App Store
4. Emirates NBD – Robust UAE Banking App for Professionals
Best for established expats needing robust, traditional services
- App Store Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.1/5 on iOS, 4.2/5 on Android)
- Ideal for: Expats with full-time jobs or UAE-based businesses
Key Features:
- Complete banking control with biometric login
- Strong multi-currency capabilities
- Integration with payroll systems
- Online access to register business for VAT or apply for VAT registration
- Personal finance tools and credit card management
Expat Pros:
- Priority service for Premier customers
- Strong customer service channels
- Good for those with multiple local and global accounts
Hidden Fees to Watch:
- Non-maintenance fee of AED 30/month
- FX transaction margin varies based on account tier
Download on Google Play Store and App Store
5. RAKBANK – Low-Fee Banking App for Expats in the UAE
Best for simple, no-frills banking and easy international transfers
- App Store Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.0/5 on iOS, 3.9/5 on Android)
- Ideal for: Budget-conscious expats and first-time UAE residents
Key Features:
- Quick account opening with Emirates ID
- Competitive rates for international money transfers
- Prepaid and credit card linking
- Direct bill payments and balance management
Expat Pros:
- Transparent pricing
- No fuss, minimalist UX
- Excellent for sending funds to India, UK, or Southeast Asia
Hidden Fees to Watch:
- AED 25/month if below minimum balance
- Extra fees for SWIFT transfers (depending on currency)
Download on Google Play Store and App Store
UAE Banking Apps 2025: Comparison Table
| Feature / App | Liv. | Mashreq Neo | ADCB Hayyak | Emirates NBD | RAKBANK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| App Store Rating | 4.3 | 4.1 | 4.2 | 4.1 | 4.0 |
| Multi-currency Support | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Credit Card Integration | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| International Transfers | ✅ (fast) | ✅ (high limit) | ✅ | ✅ (reliable) | ✅ (cheap) |
| VAT Tools (for self-employed) | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Full | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Full | ❌ |
| Payroll System Friendly | ⚠️ Basic | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Limited |
| Hidden Fees | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | High if inactive | Low |
| Best For | Freelancers & young expats | SMEs & professionals | Families | Business users | Budget expats |
FAQ: New to UAE Banking? Start Here
1. What’s the easiest banking app to use for new expats in Dubai?
For a smooth setup, Liv. (Download on Google Play Store or App Store) and Mashreq Neo (Download on Google Play Store or App Store) are great choices due to their fast onboarding and intuitive interfaces.
2. Which app is best for international transfers?
RAKBANK (Download on Google Play Store and App Store) offers competitive FX rates, while Mashreq Neo (Download on Google Play Store or App Store) supports larger international transactions with better limits.
3. Can I register for VAT using these apps?
Yes, Mashreq Neo (Download on Google Play Store or App Store) and Emirates NBD (Download on Google Play Store and App Store) provide in-app tools and integrations to help apply for VAT registration and manage related documents.
4. Are there any apps that support payroll for my small business?
Mashreq Neo (Download on Google Play Store or App Store), ADCB (Download on Google Play Store or App Store), and Emirates NBD (Download on Google Play Store and App Store) offer features or portals that support payroll integration and salary-linked banking.
5. What hidden fees should I watch out for?
Watch for:
- Monthly maintenance fees (often AED 25–30) if balance requirements aren’t met
- FX conversion charges on international card transactions
- ATM withdrawal charges (especially out-of-network ATMs)
Final Word:
If you’re an expat navigating the financial systems in the UAE, these banking apps can make your life significantly easier—whether it’s sending money abroad, paying bills, or staying VAT-compliant as a freelancer. Choose the app that best suits your lifestyle, business needs, and spending habits.
