First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB): Complete Guide to the UAE’s Largest and Safest Bank

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Learn everything about First Abu Dhabi #Bank (FAB) – UAE's largest financial institution. Explore FAB’s #services, #digital banking, loans, branches, history, and #global reputation in this 2025 guide.

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1. Introduction to FAB Bank

2. History and Merger Overview

3. FAB’s Domestic and Global Presence

4. Key Services and Products

5. FAB Digital Banking Revolution

6. Business and Corporate Banking

7. Credit Cards and Personal Loans

8. Sustainability and Green Banking

9. Awards, Ratings, and Reputation

10. How to Open an Account at FAB

11. FAB vs Other UAE Banks

12. Customer Reviews and Feedback

13. FAQs

14. Conclusion

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🏛️ 1. Introduction to FAB Bank

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) is the largest bank in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and one of the most prominent financial institutions in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Known for its strong credit ratings, robust performance, and modern banking experience, FAB serves millions of individuals, SMEs, and large institutions across the globe.

With its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, FAB plays a pivotal role in supporting the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals, especially in digital finance, innovation, and green economic development.

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2. FAB History and Merger Overview

FAB was established in 2017 through the strategic merger of two major UAE banks:

National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD)

First Gulf Bank (FGB)

The merger created a banking powerhouse with increased capital strength, market share, and international connectivity. The merger was part of the UAE’s strategy to consolidate financial services under more efficient, competitive institutions.

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3. Domestic and Global Presence

FAB’s reach extends far beyond the UAE. It operates in 19+ countries, offering cross-border banking solutions and supporting trade flows across Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and MENA.

🌎 Global Locations Include:

United Kingdom

United States

China

Singapore

India

Egypt

Saudi Arabia

France

Switzerland

FAB is a strategic enabler of international investment into the #UAE and outbound expansion for #Emirati #companies.

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💼 4. Key Services and Products

FAB provides a wide range of services under two major verticals:

🏦 Retail & Personal Banking

Savings and current accounts

Fixed deposits

Personal loans

Auto loans

Credit cards

Wealth Management

🏢 Corporate & Investment Banking (CIB)

Project finance

Capital markets

Trade finance

Treasury solutions

Syndicated loans

Mergers & acquisitions advisory

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5. FAB Digital Banking Revolution

FAB has significantly invested in digital transformation, becoming one of the most tech-forward banks in the region.

Key Innovations:

FAB Mobile App: Easy transfers, bill payments, card control, budgeting

FAB Online Banking: Full access to services, account control, live chat

Digital Onboarding: Open a FAB account in minutes with UAE Pass

AI and Machine Learning: Fraud detection and personalized offers

FAB's fintech arm “Magnati” also powers payment solutions for businesses across the region.

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6. FAB Business and Corporate Banking

FAB offers tailored banking solutions for businesses of all sizes:

SME Solutions:

Business accounts with zero minimum balance

POS machines and digital payments

SME loans and working capital facilities

Corporate Services:

Structured and syndicated loans

Corporate credit cards

Foreign exchange (FX) hedging

Cash flow management tools

FAB also provides Shariah-compliant Islamic banking for corporate clients under “FAB Islamic”.

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💳 7. Credit Cards and Personal Loans

💳 FAB Credit Cards:

FAB Platinum Credit Card

FAB Cashback Card

FAB Etihad Guest Miles Card

FAB Infinite Card

Benefits Include:

✔ Airport lounge access

✔ Rewards & cashback

✔ Travel insurance

✔ Buy now, pay later options

FAB Personal Loans:

FAB offers competitive salary-transfer loans with quick approvals, flexible terms, and low interest rates.

Loan up to AED 5 million

Tenure up to 48 months

Insurance and top-up options

Instant loan eligibility check online

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8. Sustainability and Green Banking

FAB is a regional leader in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices.

Initiatives:

Green bonds issuance

Financing renewable energy projects

Paperless banking via digital services

Sustainable investment solutions for clients

FAB is a founding member of the Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA).

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🏅 9. Awards and Global Recognition

FAB has received numerous international awards, consistently ranking among the world’s safest and most valuable financial brands.

Recent Awards:

Safest Bank in the Middle East – Global Finance Magazine

Best Bank in the UAE – Euromoney

Top 10 Banking Brands – Brand Finance

Best Digital Bank – Global Finance

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🏦 10. How to Open a FAB Account

Opening a bank account with FAB is easy:

Requirements:

Emirates ID

Valid passport

Residency visa (for expats)

Salary certificate (for salary-transfer accounts)

🖥️ Steps:

1. Download the FAB Mobile App or visit bankfab.com

2. Choose account type (current, savings, salary)

3. Verify identity using UAE Pass

4. Upload documents and complete eKYC

5. Account is active within 24 hours

FAB also offers student accounts, youth accounts, and premium banking for HNWIs (High-Net-Worth Individuals).

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🏦 11. FAB vs Other UAE Banks

Feature FAB Emirates NBD ADCB

Largest by assets ✅ Yes ❌ No ❌ No

Digital innovation ✅ High ✅ High ✅ Moderate

International presence ✅ 19+ countries ✅ 13+ countries ✅ Limited

Green banking ✅ Leading ✅ Moderate ✅ Moderate

Retail product range ✅ Full spectrum ✅ Full spectrum ✅ Full spectrum

FAB has the edge in global exposure, credit ratings, and sustainability leadership.

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12. Customer Reviews and Reputation

FAB enjoys a positive reputation for its product offerings, security, and mobile app performance.

Customer Highlights:

Fast approval for credit cards and loans

Intuitive mobile app

Low transaction fees for international transfers

Helpful customer support via WhatsApp and phone

Some users mention delays in branch services during peak hours, but overall feedback is highly favorable.

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13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is FAB a government-owned bank?

Yes, FAB is majority-owned by Mubadala Investment Company, linked to the Abu Dhabi Government.

What is the minimum salary to open a FAB salary account?

Usually AED 3,000–5,000, depending on the account type.

Does FAB offer Islamic banking?

Yes. FAB offers Shariah-compliant Islamic accounts, credit cards, and financing solutions.

Can I use FAB for international money transfers?

Yes. FAB supports SWIFT transfers, Western Union integration, and competitive FX rates.

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14. Conclusion

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) is more than just the UAE’s largest bank — it’s a forward-thinking financial institution shaping the future of #banking, digital innovation, and sustainability. With an expansive range of services, excellent customer experience, and strong global presence, FAB continues to set new standards for modern banking in the #Middle East and beyond.

Whether you're an individual looking for a salary account, a small business in need of financial tools, or a multinational seeking project finance, #FAB is a trusted partner with the expertise and vision to help you grow.

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