Top 5 Banking Apps in the UAE Ranked(2025)

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

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

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

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

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)

UAE Banking Apps 2025: Comparison Table

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. and Mashreq Neo are great choices due to their fast onboarding and intuitive interfaces.

2. Which app is best for international transfers?
RAKBANK offers competitive FX rates, while Mashreq Neo supports larger international transactions with better limits.

3. Can I register for VAT using these apps?
Yes, Mashreq Neo and Emirates NBD 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, ADCB, and Emirates NBD 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.