It may appear that closing a bank is a simple process. However, when dealing with a large financial institution like First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), you must follow all the correct steps. If you’re moving, changing banks, or consolidating finances, it is important to close your FAB bank account safely. This will protect you against unwanted charges, misuse of the account, or future complications.
This guide will cover all the necessary information about closing your FAB safely, including the steps to follow, precautions to take, required documents, and common mistakes to avoid. You’ll be able to manage this financial transition securely once you have read the guide.
FAB account closure explained
First Abu Dhabi Bank is one of the UAE’s leading banks, providing personal banking services, such as salary accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, and investment products. FAB’s services are used by millions of UAE residents, businesses, and individuals. However, there may be situations where you need to close your account.
Other common causes include:
- Move to another country
- Multiple bank accounts consolidation
- Switching to a better bank or one that offers a higher rate of interest
- Unsatisfaction or Hidden Charges
- Short-term stays in the UAE for expats, temporary workers, and students
No matter the reasons, it is important to plan carefully before closing your FAB. This will ensure there are no financial repercussions.
Prepare to close your FAB account.
You must take several steps before submitting your closure request. If you skip these steps, your request could be delayed or rejected.
1. Clear Outstanding Dues
- Make sure that all credit cards, loans, or overdrafts linked to your account have been settled.
- FAB won’t allow you to shut down the account while there are still payments pending.
2. Maintain Minimum Balance
- FAB accounts require that you maintain a certain minimum balance. You may be charged a fee if you fall below the minimum balance before closing your account.
- Before proceeding, FAB balance check with policies.
3. Transfer of Funds
- Before closing the account, transfer all funds remaining to a different bank or withdraw money.
- Maintain receipts as part of your record-keeping.
4. Cancel Automated Transactions
- All standing orders (such as subscriptions or payments) should be stopped.
It is important to avoid rejecting transactions when closing an account.
5. Recover Cheques and Deposits
- You should re-route any postdated checks or salary transfers that you receive to your new bank account.
How to safely close your FAB account
If you have met all the requirements, closing your FAB can be accomplished in just four easy steps.
Step 1: Go to a FAB branch
- Online or via the app, it is not possible to close an account.
- Original identification documents must be presented at the nearest FAB office in the UAE.
Step 2: Provide all required documents
The following will be required:
- The original Emirates ID card and a duplicate
- Valid UAE visa page in passport
- If applicable, a cheque book, debit, and/or credit card
- Account closure form (available at the branch).
Step 3: Clear the remaining balances and charges.
- Repay any outstanding service charges or penalties.
- You can request to transfer funds from your account to your new account if you have money in it.
Step 4: Confirm the closure and get an acknowledgement.
- FAB will review your request and confirm the closure.
- You can ask for an acknowledgment of the transaction or a certificate for closure to be kept for your own records.
Documents Required for FAB Account Closure
The process requires you to present specific documents. Here’s a quick summary:
| Document | Purpose | Notes |
| Emirates ID | Verify identity | Original + copy required |
| Passport with UAE Visa | Residency proof | Must be valid |
| Cheque Book | Cancel pending cheques | Return unused leaves |
| Debit/Credit Card | Close linked cards | Must be handed over |
| Closure Form | Official request | Provided at the branch |
How to close a salary account with FAB
The most popular FAB account is the salary account. Close them with extra care:
- Employer notification: Tell your HR department about the closing of your account and give them details on your new account.
- Check for pending bonus or salary payments on the account that you intend to close.
- Final settlement: Your employer can deposit your FAB account with end-of-service benefits if you leave your job. Only close the account after you receive this payment.
Close FAB savings accounts
Fixed deposits and recurring deposit schemes are often linked to savings accounts. Before closing:
- Transfer or break any deposit fixed with another bank.
- You can withdraw the interest you have accumulated.
- Make sure that no automatic transfer is set up.
Close FAB credit card-linked accounts.
You must do the following if your FAB account is linked to a FAB Credit Card:
- Resolve all credit card debts.
- You can cancel recurring payments associated with your card.
- The card must be returned to the bank.
If you do not, hidden fees may be charged even after the account is closed.
The Online Banking App and the Mobile App can be deactivated.
Close your FAB Account
- You will be automatically deactivated from your FAB Mobile App and Online Banking credentials.
- Download and save your transaction history for future use.
Close FAB accounts: Fees.
FAB can charge you for closing an account, depending on the type of account and its length of use.
| Account Type | Closure Charges | Notes |
| Salary Account | Free (if no pending dues) | Employer notification required |
| Savings Account | AED 100 (if closed within 1 year) | May vary depending on the branch |
| Current Account | AED 100 – AED 200 | Depends on balance and tenure |
Tip: Always check with FAB before initiating closure to avoid unexpected fees.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Close Accounts with Outstanding Loans or Card Balances: Closing an account that has outstanding loan balances or card amounts will not be accepted.
- If you forget to pay your subscriptions, they may be bounced and result in penalties.
- Early closure fees may be charged if your account is a new one.
- Do not collect confirmation of closure: Keep written evidence to prevent disputes in the future.
How long does it take to close a FAB account?
When to expect a payment depends on the type of account and how much money has been cleared. Generally:
- Simple Salary Accounts: 1 to 2 working days
- Accounts with credit cards/loans: up to 7 days
- International transfers pending accounts: 5-10 business days
FAB account closure for expats leaving the UAE
Before leaving, expats must exercise extra caution. Before leaving, you should:
- All bank and credit card accounts should be closed.
- Get a written confirmation of the closure.
- Use an alternate international account to transfer funds.
- Don’t let your dues pile up – it could affect your immigration status.
Account Closure Alternatives
You may decide to close your FAB account instead.
- You can convert your salary account to a savings account if you no longer need it.
- Account Freeze: Suspend activity temporarily without closing the account.
- Upgrade Account Type: Change to a lower-maintenance type of account to avoid paying fees.
Quick Closure Checklist
| Step | Action | What You Need | Outcome |
| 1 | Visit FAB Branch | Emirates ID, Passport | Begin closure request |
| 2 | Return Cards & Cheques | Debit, Credit, Cheque Book | Prevent misuse |
| 3 | Clear Dues | Settle loans, fees | Approval for closure |
| 4 | Transfer Funds | Cash withdrawal / Transfer | Empty account |
| 5 | Fill Closure Form | Provided at the branch | Official request |
| 6 | Collect Confirmation | Written acknowledgment | Proof of closure |
Final Thoughts
It’s not enough to walk into the bank and sign a document. This involves a systematic process, including clearing of dues, cancelling automated payments, returning bank materials, and getting written confirmation.
Follow these steps to close your FAB Account safely.
Remember to plan, pay off your debts, and maintain documentation. This will help you avoid future issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I close my FAB account online?
No. FAB requires you to visit a branch in person with proper documents to close your account.
2. Is there a fee for closing a FAB account?
Yes. If your account is less than 12 months old, FAB may charge a closure fee. The fee usually does not apply if the account is older than one year.
3. How long does it take to close a FAB account?
Generally, account closure can take 3–5 working days, depending on whether all dues are cleared.
4. What happens if I still have a balance in my account?
You must withdraw or transfer the balance before closure. FAB will not process closure until the balance is settled.
5. Can I close a FAB account if I am outside the UAE?
Yes, but you will need to give a notarized Power of Attorney to someone in the UAE who can handle the process on your behalf.
6. Do I need to inform my employer before closing my salary account?
Yes. If your salary is credited to FAB, inform your employer and update them with your new account details.
7. Will closing my FAB account affect my credit score?
No, as long as you don’t have unpaid loans or credit cards linked to your account. Unsettled dues can negatively affect your credit history.
8. Can I reopen my FAB account after closing it?
No. The account is not then reactivatable after it is closed. You will be obliged to open a fresh one.
Last modified: August 20, 2025
