Applying for a bank account in the UAE: Why business activity matters on your trade license

The UAE is also home to a diverse set of industries – trade, tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing. All these make UAE an attractive launchpad for those looking to start their own business. 

The UAE has a mix of local and foreign banks that serve the financial needs of businesses. Banks in the UAE are famous for providing a high level of privacy, which provides another level of protection for corporate customers. 

Businesses can apply for a corporate account with international banks. For small enterprises or startups, it may be ideal to apply for an account with a local bank as they offer more flexibility. 

Opening a bank account to conduct any kind of business is relatively straightforward. However, you need to be privy to the different measures and regulations when it comes to corporate banking activities. 

Here are a few things to note when starting a corporate bank account:

Specifying your business activity on your trade licence

Businesses can only conduct any type of activities after registering and getting a licence. This is one of the first steps when starting a business in UAE. The licence serves as validation for the bank to recognise your business. Without a licence, banks may not recognise your business and approve your account. 

You can choose from different types of licences, but what matters is that your business activity matches the licence you’re applying for. This is especially important if you are applying for a bank account. 

For example, if you are planning to sell products online, you may need an e-trader licence. This reflects that your business activity will be conducted through social media. A commercial licence may be more appropriate for business activities that require importing products abroad and selling them online. 

In case your business activity does not reflect what is on your trade licence, this may cause issues with your bank. This is why you need to make sure your business activity matches what is indicated on your licence. Specifying this clearly may help increase the chances of getting approval from a bank.

Different types of business licences

Choosing the right business activity is not only important in applying for a bank account, but also for obtaining the right licence. 

  • Commercial – If you are selling products, whether online or retail, you may need a commercial licence. 
  • Industrial – This often includes businesses that specialise in manufacturing goods. 
  • Professional – If you are running a marketing, events, or similar types of consultancy services, a professional licence may be more appropriate. 

The more accurate you are with your business activity, the less trouble you will face when opening a bank account. The right business activity and licence will make it easier for the banks to understand the nature of your business, so be sure you have proper documentation. 

Getting assistance for opening your bank account

The regulations and documentation involved in opening a corporate bank account can be confusing for those who are just starting out their business. You do not have to handle everything on your own, though. 

Our team at ExpressPRO can help in opening your corporate bank account to make sure all the details and the right documents are submitted. This takes away the extra burden in setting up your business, so you can focus on more important aspects. 

One of the biggest advantages of getting assistance from our team is we can connect you with trusted banks. We can help you choose which one is most suited to your business and can best serve your needs when it comes to financing and managing your account. 

We will handle the paperwork and communicate with the banks on your behalf. We will basically act as your representatives so you can dedicate more time and effort into setting up your business. 

Ready to open a bank account for your business in the UAE?

If you are planning to set up a corporate bank account for your business, we are here to help. Contact our team and learn how to get started. Fill out the form below so our team can assist you with your business setup and bank account opening.

Set up Your UAE Company with ExpressPRO

Please fill out the form below so our team can get in touch with you and guide you through the complete process.

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Rodrigo Vasquez
13:52 12 Mar 25
Consistently providing good service and accompanying you through every step of the journey.
Fatima De Leon
11:23 12 Mar 25
I have to deeply thank Vassilios for his support throughout the way with all my consultations regarding the visa and license packages available and suitable for my business needs. Him and the Team have gone extra mile with phone calls, whattsups updates and my emails follow up.
Kaye Enoy
18:25 06 Mar 25
I had a great experience recently with Express PRO. They assisted me with opening my company in Dubai from A to Z. Paul has been amazing as he always responds regardless if my message is very early or late. Bryan has been very supportive every step of the way guiding me with the process and the documents necessary. Thank you so much Paul and Bryan!
Mohaned Eisa
05:51 04 Mar 25
"This is my third time collaborating with Express Pro for my company in the UAE. I am truly satisfied with their consistent support, diligent efforts, and prompt responses. Thank you very
Meenah Shhi
16:04 22 Feb 25
I had a great experience with Express Pro. They handled my visa application efficiently and hassle-free. Their team, especially Paul & Bryan assisted me to get my visa done smoothly. They were responsive, professional, and ensure clients’ satisfaction. If you’re looking for a reliable and professional company, I highly recommend Express PRO. Their outstanding service truly made a difference.
Shaisinette Salibio
11:29 13 Feb 25
We were close to having one of the worst experiences with Express pro if it wasn't for Bryan Basilio that we are giving it a 5 ⭐ review. We started with Paul as our consultant which we sincerely regret. It started out good but completely disrespectful & classless that he didn't answer any of our messages after payment, we would not recommend Paul as a consultant at all.Bryan is truly the diamond of this company, his assistance, quick responses and always staying on top of everything, there aren't enough words to describe how great Bryan has been during this process that we were able to forget how bad this experience started off, to how smooth this whole process went when Bryan took full responsibility of taking care of us. For everyone looking to work with Express pro, Bryan Basilio is the first consultant you should reach out too for assistance. Give this man a promotion!! He is doing a wonderful job within the company and should be cherished!! Thanks again for the first class service you provided Bryan, you turned the 1 ⭐ review we had at first to a 5 ⭐ simply based of your effort alone!
Haseena UH
09:21 13 Feb 25
Had a great experience with Express Pro! Irshad and Brayn were incredibly helpful in clearing all my doubts and provided professional services throughout the process. Truly appreciate their support and efficiency. Highly recommend their services!
Sumesh Vijayan Sumesh Vijayan
08:00 13 Feb 25
Mr. Irshad and Bryan really helped to start my business before the time line.Really appreciate for their professional work.Highly recommended
sabarish pc
08:00 13 Feb 25
Mr. Irshad and Bryan really helped to start my business before the time line.Really appreciate for their professional work.Highly recommended
Sreenath Mm
07:41 13 Feb 25
I am really happy with the professional service of express pro teamMr. Irshad and Bryan really helped to start my business swiftly.Really appreciate for their serviceHighly recommended ????
Ervin Enabacan
16:56 23 Jan 25
Visiting EXPRESS PRO was a fantastic experience, largely due to Roanne, the receptionist. She was polite, welcoming, and incredibly helpful. Roanne made sure I had all the information I needed and answered all my questions with a smile. The level of service I received was top-notch, and I truly appreciate her attention to detail. I highly recommend EXPRESS PRO to anyone looking for friendly and efficient service.
Jeannelle Reynae Gonzales
12:20 21 Jan 25
I had such a great experience with EXPRESS PRO! Their customer service is outstanding, and I highly recommend them for getting your business license. The employees are very accommodating and friendly, making the entire process smooth and hassle-free. Special thanks to Roanne and Angeline for their exceptional assistance. Truly a top-notch service!
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