
What is First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)?
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) is the largest bank in the United Arab Emirates. It was formed in 2017 when two major banks joined forces: First Gulf Bank (FGB) and National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD). FAB is based in Abu Dhabi and serves millions of customers in the UAE and around the world.
The bank offers many different financial products and services. These include personal banking, corporate banking, loans, credit cards, wealth management, and Islamic banking. It is known for its strong digital services like mobile and online banking, making banking easy and fast for its customers.
FAB operates in over 19 countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. It focuses on innovation, customer service, and helping individuals and businesses grow financially. FAB is one of the safest and most trusted banks in the region. It is a leader in both local and global banking markets.
FAB Card Services: Secure Balance Inquiry for Prepaid Users
Prepaid Card Services
Secure Inquiry Portal | بوابة الاستعلام الآمنة
1234 5678 9012 3456
Instructions | التعليمات
- Enter the last two digits of your card number located at the top-right corner of your card | أدخل آخر رقمين من رقم البطاقة الموجود في الزاوية العلوية اليمنى للبطاقة
- Enter the Card ID found on the lower-left face of your card | أدخل معرف البطاقة الموجود في الجزء السفلي الأيسر من البطاقة
- Complete the CAPTCHA verification to prove you’re not a robot | أكمل التحقق من CAPTCHA لإثبات أنك لست روبوتًا
- Click “Go” to retrieve your card information | انقر فوق “اذهب” لاسترداد معلومات البطاقة
Card Inquiry | استعلام البطاقة
Enter your card details to check your balance and transactions | أدخل تفاصيل بطاقتك للتحقق من رصيدك ومعاملاتك
Redirect Notice
You will be redirected to the official Magnati Prepaid Card Inquiry portal after successful verification.
ستتم إعادة توجيهك إلى بوابة الاستعلام الرسمية لبطاقات ماجناتي المدفوعة مسبقًا بعد التحقق بنجاح.
Your security is our priority. We never store your full card details. | أمنك هو أولويتنا. نحن لا نخزن تفاصيل بطاقتك الكاملة أبدًا.
How to Check Your FAB Balance?
FAB offers FAB balance check easily and updates your real-time accounts. you can check your previous year credit and debit. This bank tracks your business's income and expenses. You can easily receiving notifications of all your transactions. The FAB bank balance check feature is useful for confirming salary payments.
You can use several methods to check your balance in First abu dhabi bank (FAB) through Online Banking, ATM and Customer Service.
Here's a more detailed Breakdown to Check FAB Balance :
FAB Mobile Banking App
Using mobile app, you can easily check your balance in FAB ( First Abu Dhabi Bank ).




FAB Banking Website
To check your FAB account balance by using online official FAB banking website, follow these steps.



ATM Balance Inquiry
Checking your bank account balance at an ATM is quick and easy. Here's how to safely check your ATM balance:
Safety Tips for ATM Balance Inquiries
- Don't accept help from strangers at the ATM.
- Use ATMs in safe, well-lit places.
- Don't share your PIN.
- Take your card and receipt immediately after completing a transaction.
FAB SMS Banking
FAB SMS Banking is a service that lets you do your banking through text messages. It lets customers do essential banking tasks using text messages on their phones. They don't need the internet or to go to a branch.
Benefits
- Useful for users with basic phones
- No internet required
- Available 24/7
FAB Phone Call Banking
FAB (First Abu Dhabi Bank) Phone Banking is a banking service that is available 24/7. It allows customers to access their accounts from a secure phone line. It's perfect for people who need easy access to banking services without using the internet or mobile apps.
Security Tips for FAB Phone Banking:
- Never share your PIN with anyone.
- Always call the official FAB number.
- Update your PIN regularly.
- Disconnect immediately if you suspect fraud or unusual activity.
FAB Payit App
Payit by First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) is a digital wallet that lets you pay for things online and in-app without using cash. It's a safe way to pay for your everyday purchases in the UAE. No matter what you're doing, whether it's sending money, paying bills, or shopping online, Payit makes it easy. Here's how to get started:

FAB Branch Visit
Visiting a First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) branch? Whether you're opening a new account, applying for a loan, or resolving an issue, this guide provides a clear, step-by-step breakdown to help you make the most of your FAB branch visit.
Which Methods Are Most Effective for Checking Your FAB Account Balance?
This table makes it easy to see the most efficient and secure ways to check your FAB balance. Each method is presented to help you quickly identify the option that best fits your preferences. These preferences may include speed, convenience, or safety.
| Method | Best For | Why It’s Good | Rating (⭐ out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 📱 Mobile App | On-the-go account access | Instant login, secure access, and user-friendly interface | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 💻 Online Banking | Managing finances from your desktop/laptop | Detailed overview of accounts, transactions, and features | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 🏧 ATM | No internet, need cash or quick check | Simple interface, quick results, requires card and travel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 📩 SMS Banking | No data or Wi-Fi access | Fast updates via text, no app or login required | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| 📞 Phone Banking | Personalized support or account issues | Human interaction, useful for complex or urgent concerns | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 💰 Payit Wallet App | Users of FAB's digital wallet system | Seamless for wallet payments, not ideal for full banking | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| 🏦 Branch Visit | Need face-to-face help with banking matters | Direct support for complex services, slow but thorough | ⭐⭐ |
🌍 How International Users Can Check FAB Account Balance – 5 Reliable Methods
| Method | How to Use It (Step-by-Step) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| FAB Mobile App (Quick & Secure Access Worldwide) | 1. Download the official FAB Mobile App from Google Play or Apple App Store. 2. Log in using your customer ID and password. 3. Your account balance appears on the dashboard or under ‘Accounts’. | Instant, secure balance check from anywhere in the world. |
| FAB Online Banking (Best for Full Account Overview) | 1. Go to the FAB Online Banking website. 2. Sign in with your online banking credentials. 3. Navigate to ‘Accounts’ to view your balance and transaction details. | Managing accounts, reviewing balances, and transaction history remotely. |
| Phone Banking (International Access) (Personalized Assistance) | 1. Dial +971 2 6811511 (FAB’s international customer support number). 2. Follow the voice prompts or speak with an agent. 3. Provide account verification details to get your balance. | Ideal when you need customer support or have specific questions. |
| SMS Banking (No Internet Needed) (Simple & Fast Without Data) | 1. Ensure your UAE mobile number is registered for SMS Banking. 2. Send an SMS with the format BAL XXXX (last 4 digits of your account) to FAB’s official SMS number. 3. Receive your balance via SMS. | Great for quick balance checks while roaming or offline. |
| ATM Balance Inquiry (For Travelers Abroad) | 1. Use any international ATM that supports FAB debit or credit cards. 2. Insert your card, enter your PIN. 3. Select ‘Balance Inquiry’ to view your account balance. | Convenient when you're traveling and need physical ATM access. |
FAB Ratibi & Prepaid Card Balance Check: Step-by-Step Instructions
If you’re working in the UAE and getting paid through a FAB Prepaid or Ratibi card, you’re not alone. I’ve been in your shoes—eager to check whether my salary dropped, wondering if the card balance would cover groceries, or simply double-checking my funds before heading to the ATM. These cards are a lifeline for thousands of employees across the UAE, especially those without traditional bank accounts.

Now, here’s the catch: many people don’t actually know all the different ways you can check your FAB card balance. I certainly didn’t when I first started using mine. I relied solely on ATMs (long queues and all) before I discovered simpler, faster methods.
Whether you’re paid via a FAB Prepaid card or the Ratibi salary card, this guide will help you check your card balance easily—without wasting time or standing in lines unnecessarily.
So, let’s dive into it. I’ll walk you through all the methods, tools, terms, and even answer common questions I’ve personally heard from coworkers, friends, and—well—people like you.
What Are FAB Prepaid and Ratibi Cards?
Prepaid vs Ratibi: What’s the Difference?
Both cards are issued by First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), one of the largest banks in the UAE. These aren't your typical debit or credit cards.
- FAB Prepaid Card: It’s reloadable and often used for allowances, corporate expenses, or remittances. Think of it like a flexible spending tool.
- FAB Ratibi Card: Specifically designed for salary disbursement for workers earning under AED 5,000 per month—typically those without a bank account.
Why Do Employers Use Them?
Employers love these cards because they’re compliant with the Wage Protection System (WPS). It simplifies payroll processing and keeps everything digital and transparent.
Card Components You Should Know
You'll usually need:
- Card Number
- PIN
- Expiry Date
- Emirates ID (for verification at exchange houses)
How to Check FAB Prepaid & Ratibi Card Balance
There’s more than one way to check your balance—and I promise, some are surprisingly convenient. Let’s explore each method.
1. Check Balance via FAB Ratibi Online Portal
This is my go-to method because it’s fast and doesn’t require you to log into a full banking app.
Steps:
🔹 Pro Tip: Bookmark the site for quick access every month!
2. Use the FAB Mobile Banking App (for Prepaid Cards)
If you’re using a FAB Prepaid card (not Ratibi), you can manage everything through the FAB Mobile App.
Steps:
Note: Ratibi cards don’t always work with the app. They’re considered “standalone” salary tools.
3. SMS-Based Balance Inquiry
Did you know you could check your balance without Wi-Fi or mobile data?
How to Do It:
If you’ve registered your mobile number with FAB, simply send an SMS: php-templateCopyEditBAL <space> Last 4 digits of card to 2121
📵 This method is simple but only works if your card is registered with a valid mobile number.
4. Check Balance at an ATM
Still the old-school way—and sometimes necessary if you’re on the go.
Steps:
💡 You can also withdraw cash or get a mini statement here
5. Call FAB Customer Support
If you’re facing issues with online access, this might be the way to go.
Hotline Numbers:
6. Visit an Exchange House with Emirates ID
Some exchange houses like Lulu Exchange or Al Ansari Exchange offer FAB card balance services.
Steps:
Banking Terms Breakdown
Common Lexical Terms You Might See
- Balance: The amount of money currently available.
- PIN: Personal Identification Number used to access ATMs.
- Transaction History: A record of recent spending and deposits.
Top Benefits of Regular Bank Balance Checks
You can keep track of your bank balance with any account—FAB Prepaid, Ratibi, or any other. It's a smart way to manage your money that can offer more benefits than you might think.
Let’s break down the key benefits of checking your balance regularly:
1. Prevents Overspending
We’ve all been there—you swipe your card without checking your balance, only to find out it’s been declined. Regular balance checks help you stay within budget and avoid overdraft or embarrassing moments at the checkout.
✅ Real-world example: I once assumed I had AED 500 on my Ratibi card. Turned out I had just AED 34. Glad I checked before ordering dinner for five!
2. Detects Unauthorized Transactions Early
By checking your balance regularly (and reviewing transaction history), you can spot suspicious activity quickly. Early detection can prevent bigger financial losses and give you a chance to report fraud immediately.
🔒 Better safe than sorry—especially with digital payments becoming more common.
3. Helps Track Salary Deposits
This is especially important if you’re using a FAB Ratibi card. Employers sometimes delay salary transfers, and regular balance checks help you confirm:
- When your salary is deposited
- Whether the correct amount was paid
4. Encourages Smarter Budgeting
When you consistently monitor your available funds, you naturally become more mindful of your spending patterns. This supports:
- Monthly budgeting
- Expense control
- Goal-based saving
💡 Tip: Pair balance checks with a budgeting app or notebook to stay even more in control.
5. Avoids Minimum Balance Penalties (For Other Account Types)
While Ratibi and Prepaid cards don’t usually have minimum balance fees, some FAB accounts do. Keeping an eye on your balance helps you avoid those small charges that can add up over time.
6. Reduces Financial Stress
Let’s be honest—not knowing your financial standing causes anxiety. A quick balance check can give you clarity and peace of mind, especially during tight months.
7. Builds Financial Discipline
Like going to the gym or brushing your teeth, checking your balance regularly builds a healthy financial routine. It’s one of those small habits that pays off in a big way over time.
8. Prepares You for Emergencies
Knowing your balance helps you act quickly in emergencies. Whether it’s a surprise medical bill, last-minute travel, or urgent shopping, being aware of your funds allows for faster, more confident decisions.
9. Makes Online Purchases Seamless
Nothing’s worse than placing an order online and getting a payment error because of insufficient funds. A quick balance check before you buy helps avoid that digital hiccup.
10. Encourages Savings Mindset
When you see your balance increase after each paycheck or savings transfer, it motivates you to save more consistently. It’s a visual reminder of progress that builds momentum.
How to Register for FAB Online Banking in the UAE: Step-by-Step Guide
If you're living in the UAE and hold an account with First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), online banking is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you're transferring funds, paying bills, checking your balance, or setting up standing orders, doing it all from the comfort of your couch (or while waiting in line for karak) is a game changer.
FAB, one of the largest and most trusted banks in the UAE, offers a robust online and mobile banking platform that’s both secure and user-friendly. But here’s the catch: you need to register first—and that’s where many users get confused.
The good news? Registering for FAB Online Banking isn’t complicated once you know the steps. And in this guide, we’ll walk you through the exact process, one step at a time. Whether you’re a tech pro or just getting started with digital banking, this guide has got your back.
Step 1 – Get Ready Before You Start
Before diving into the registration process, make sure you have:
- Your FAB debit or credit card
- Your Customer Identification Number (CID)
- A valid Emirates ID
- The mobile number registered with your FAB account
- A good internet connection
🔒 Pro tip: Make sure your mobile is nearby—you’ll receive an OTP (One-Time Password) to verify your identity.
Step 2 – Download the FAB Mobile App or Visit the Website
Option 1 – Website Registration
- Head over to the official FAB website
- Click on “Online Banking” from the menu
- Select “Register Now”
Option 2 – Mobile App Registration
- Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)
- Search for "FAB Mobile" and install the app
- Open the app and tap on “Register”
Step 3 – Enter Your Account Details
You’ll be asked to enter:
- Your FAB debit/credit card number
- The card's PIN
- Your Emirates ID or CID
- Your mobile number
📱 Note: Make sure your mobile number is the same one linked with your FAB account. Otherwise, the registration will fail.
Step 4 – Verify with OTP (One-Time Password)
- Once your details are validated, FAB will send an OTP to your registered mobile.
- Enter the OTP in the provided field.
- If the OTP is incorrect or delayed, you can resend it.
💡 Still not receiving it? Your number might not be updated. Contact FAB’s support or visit a branch.
Step 5 – Set Up Your Login Credentials
Now it's time to create your login:
- Choose a username
- Create a strong password
- Set up security questions or enable biometric login if you're on mobile
🔐 Tip: Use a password that combines letters, numbers, and symbols for better security.
Step 6 – Log In and Explore Your Dashboard
Once registered, head back to the login screen and:
- Enter your new username and password
- Or use fingerprint or Face ID if you enabled it on mobile
✅ Welcome! You now have full access to your FAB online banking dashboard.
How to Reset FAB Online Banking Password
Here’s a straightforward step-by-step guide on how to reset your FAB (First Abu Dhabi Bank) Online Banking password:
🔐 Steps to Reset Your FAB Online Banking Password
- Go to the FAB Online Banking login page
Visit the FAB website and click “Login”, then choose “Personal Online Banking (UAE)” - Click “Forgot password” on that login screen .
- Enter your User ID and registered email/mobile
Provide your credentials as prompted. FAB will verify your identity. - Verify via OTP
You’ll receive a one-time password on your phone (SMS) and/or a PDF via email. Enter the OTP to proceed - Create a new password
Follow the password requirements (e.g., mix of upper/lowercase letters, numbers, symbols, minimum length). Re-enter to confirm. - Submit and confirm
You'll receive confirmation that your password has been reset. You can now log in with your new password.
✅ Tips & Troubleshooting
- Use a strong password: Include upper/lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols for better security .
- Check your registered contact details: Ensure your email and phone number are current, otherwise OTP won't reach you.
- Locked out? Multiple failed attempts may lock your account—contact FAB support at 600 52 5500 (UAE) or +971 2 681 1511 (international).
- Need help? If the reset link or OTP fails, use the Unlock/Account Blocked option or speak to customer care.
✅ Quick Recap
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit FAB Online Banking login → click Forgot Password |
| 2 | Enter User ID & email/mobile |
| 3 | Verify OTP sent via SMS/email |
| 4 | Set a new, strong password |
| 5 | Submit and log in with the new credentials |
How to Use the FAB Mobile App?
Here’s a polished, step‑by‑step guide on how to use the FAB Mobile App:
1. 📲 Download & Install
Search for “FAB Mobile” on the App Store (iOS), Google Play (Android), or Huawei AppGallery.
The app has 1M+ downloads and a 4.1★ rating on Play Store.
2. Register / Log In
- Existing Users: Tap “Already a customer”, enter your debit/credit card or customer number, scan your Emirates ID, and complete the face‑scan for strong security.
- New to FAB? Select “Register”, scan your Emirates ID, do a video‑selfie (liveness check), then set a mobile PIN and swipe pattern bankfab.com.
3. Set Up Biometric Login
Enable Fingerprint or Face ID for faster and secure login next time.
4. Explore the Dashboard
Upon login, your home screen shows a clear overview of your accounts, recent transactions, cards, and balance summaries.
5. Account & Card Management
- View balances and e‑statements
- Activate, block, freeze cards or set spending limits
6. Transfers & Payments
- Send funds locally and internationally (e.g., India, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka) — many transfers are free and instant.
- Pay bills, mobile recharges, utilities, and more.
7. Apply for Products Easily
Apply for credit cards, personal loans, IPO subscriptions, iSave accounts, and multi‑currency accounts—all within a few taps.
8. Update Documents & Profile
- Upload passport, visa, Emirates ID updates directly from the profile section.
- Edit personal info: email, mobile, etc. .
9. Enhanced Security
Transactions are secured via biometric login, liveness check, single‑PIN, swipe approval, plus push‑notification authorization—no SMS‑OTP needed bankfab.com.
10. Convenient Extras
- Enable Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay
- Locate nearest ATMs/branches
- Earn & redeem FAB Rewards, cashback, and enjoy exclusive offers.
🔧 Pro Tips
- Use push‑notifications for transaction approvals and alerts.
- If you lose your phone, immediately call FAB at 600 52 5500 (UAE) or +971 2 6811511 (Intl).
- You can register up to 3 devices for frictionless access bankfab.com.
✅ Quick Start Checklist
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Download FAB Mobile and open the app |
| 2 | Register with Emirates ID (and liveness selfie) or log in as existing user |
| 3 | Enable biometrics (Fingerprint/Face ID) |
| 4 | Explore dashboard: accounts, cards, payments, offers |
| 5 | Manage cards, transfer funds, pay bills, upload documents |
| 6 | Set security via single PIN, swipe approval, push notifications |
How to Check FAB Credit Card Balance?
Here's how to check the balance on your FAB credit card. You can use digital methods or traditional methods.
📱 1. Via FAB Mobile App
- Open the app and log in.
- You can find your credit card balance on the dashboard or under "Cards."
- To see all the details, tap the card and check your balances.
💻 2. On FAB Online Banking
- Visit the official FAB website and sign in to Online Banking.
- Go to the Cards or Accounts section.
- Choose your credit card to see your balance and payment history.
🏧 3. At a FAB ATM
- Put your FAB credit or debit card into any FAB ATM.
- Enter your PIN and select "Balance Inquiry" — you'll see your card balance or your account balance..
✉️ 4. By SMS (if activated)
- Send an SMS to 2121 with the text:
BAL <your account number>. - You’ll receive your current balance via SMS (standard messaging rates apply).
☎️ 5. Over the Phone
- Call FAB customer service at 600 52 5500 (UAE) or +971 2 681 1511 (international).
- Follow the voice prompts or ask a representative for your credit-card balance.
✅ Quick Reference Table
| Method | How to Access | Balance Info Available |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile App | FAB Mobile → Dashboard/Cards | Current balance, transactions |
| Online Banking | bankfab.com → Login → Cards/Accounts | Current and available balance |
| ATM | FAB ATM → Insert card → Balance | Account/card balance printout |
| SMS | SMS “BAL <acct#>” → 2121 | Balance reply via SMS |
| Phone Call | Call FAB → Follow IVR/Rep | Current balance over call |
💡 Tips & Notes
- For SMS banking, ensure it's activated via FAB before use
- ATM fees may apply if you're using a non-FAB ATM.
- The Mobile App is the fastest and most convenient way to view real-time balances.
- If you don’t see your card under Cards in-app or online, try refreshing the app or contact FAB support.
How to Pay FAB Credit Card Bills?
Paying off your credit card bill is one of those things that seems straightforward—until it’s not. When I first got my FAB credit card, I thought, “No biggie, I’ll just set a reminder each month and knock it out.” Then life happened—travel, meetings, weekends flying by—and one late payment turned into a not-so-fun late fee. That’s when I realized: knowing all your options can be a lifesaver.
Whether you’re new to FAB (First Abu Dhabi Bank), or you've had your card for a while, this guide breaks down every single way you can pay your FAB credit card bill—without stress, confusion, or surprise charges. Let’s get into it.
Understanding FAB Credit Card Bill Payment
What Does It Mean to “Pay a FAB Credit Card Bill”?
At its core, you're simply settling the amount due that FAB reports to you monthly. Now, “bill” here doesn’t mean a dollar bill, of course. It’s an invoice (yes, “bill” is a polysemous word). In banking, "credit" itself originates from credere—Latin for “to trust.” Makes sense, right? You’re borrowing on trust.
When you pay your bill, you’re either making the minimum payment, clearing the full balance, or somewhere in between.
Why Timely Payment Matters
Here’s the thing—missed payments aren’t just annoying. They can be costly. Late payment fees, added interest, and even a ding to your credit score (if it goes on too long). FAB, like most banks, wants timely settlement of dues—and so should you. Financial responsibility and consistency are closely tied here.
All the Ways You Can Pay Your FAB Credit Card Bill
1. FAB Mobile Banking App
Hands down, this is my favorite method. Just download the FAB app, log in, and head to “Cards.” It’s intuitive, secure, and available 24/7. You can pay from your FAB account or link an external UAE account.
2. Through FAB Internet Banking
If you're more of a desktop person (like me when I’m sorting finances on a Sunday), FAB's online banking portal is smooth. Go to the FAB website, log in, and make your payment. It even stores previous transactions and bills—a great way to track spending trends.
3. ATM and Branch Payments
For those who prefer a physical location, FAB ATMs allow card bill payment too. Or, you can walk into a branch with your Emirates ID and credit card number. I’ve done this when the app was glitchy once. Took 10 minutes. Not ideal, but it worked.
4. AutoPay Setup (Scheduled Payments)
AutoPay is your safety net. You can set this up via the FAB app or website. Choose to pay either the minimum due or full balance—automatically, every month. Especially useful if you travel or forget dates often (guilty!).
5. Third-Party Payment Gateways
FAB also works with exchange houses like UAE Exchange and online platforms like BillDesk. You might pay a small processing fee, but it’s a solid backup option if your primary account isn't with FAB.
Pro Tips for Managing Your FAB Credit Card Payments
Set Reminders and AutoPay
Set a calendar alert—or better yet, set up AutoPay and sleep easy. Late fees are a waste of money.
Avoiding Late Payment Charges
Always aim to pay a few days before the due date. Even online transfers can delay by 1–2 days, especially if you’re paying from a non-FAB bank.
Use FAB SmartPay Installment Plans
Spent more than you planned? FAB SmartPay lets you convert big-ticket purchases into monthly installments at a low interest rate. Super handy for travel or emergency expenses.
FAB Balance Check Errors & Fixes
FAB Customer Support
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) is there for you. We offer a full range of customer support services to help you with your banking needs. Here's how you can reach them:
- Official Webiste: https://www.bankfab.com/
- Headquarters: Abu Dhabi in Khalifa Business Park
- Phone Support
- Within the UAE: Call 600 52 5500
- Internationally: Dial +971 2 6811511
- Email Support: customer.service@fgb.ae
- Social Media Accounts
FAB vs. Other UAE Banks: Balance Check Showdown (Who's Faster & Simpler?)
Why Balance Checking Shouldn’t Be a Headache in 2025
Let's talk about the truth. Looking at your bank balance should not feel like looking into a government database. You'd think that by now, all banks would have this basic functionality down.
Well… not quite.
I’ve personally banked with FAB, Emirates NBD, ADCB, and Mashreq, and I’ve helped friends figure things out with RAKBANK and Dubai Islamic Bank. So if you’re wondering:
"Is FAB the easiest bank to check my balance with?"
Now, let's look at the features, speed, convenience, and quirks of balance checks offered by UAE banks, especially through mobile apps, text messages, online portals, and ATMs.
🏦 Quick Comparison: Balance Check Options by Bank
| Bank | Mobile App | Online Banking | ATM | SMS/USSD | Phone Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FAB | ✅ Very Good | ✅ Standard | ✅ Yes | ✅ USSD & SMS | ✅ 24/7 |
| Emirates NBD | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Yes | ❌ No USSD | ✅ Good |
| ADCB | ✅ Good | ✅ Standard | ✅ Yes | ❌ No USSD | ✅ Good |
| Mashreq | ✅ Fast UI | ✅ Good | ✅ Yes | ✅ SMS only | ✅ Decent |
| RAKBANK | ✅ Clean UI | ✅ Okay | ✅ Yes | ✅ SMS | ✅ Good |
| Dubai Islamic Bank | ✅ Decent | ✅ Basic | ✅ Yes | ✅ SMS | ✅ OK |
TL;DR: If you're looking for USSD balance checks (without mobile data), FAB is ahead of most traditional banks.
🔍 FAB’s Balance Check Methods: Pros & Cons
1. FAB Mobile App (FAB Mobile)
📱Rating: 9/10
The FAB Mobile App is:
- Fast
- Intuitive
- Minimalist
- Allows face recognition login
- Balance shows right on your dashboard
Bonus: You can also check your credit card balance, outstanding dues, and reward points in one tap.
✅ Personal Opinion: I love that I don’t have to navigate through 5 menus just to see my balance.
2. FAB SMS Balance Check
📩 SMS BAL to 2121 (registered number)
You’ll receive:
- Current account balance
- Last few transactions (sometimes)
⚠️ Must be registered for FAB SMS banking first. It’s quick and can be done at an ATM.
3. FAB USSD Balance Check (Without Internet)
📲 Dial *122# on your Etisalat or Du mobile number
Choose “Balance” > Enter your PIN
Your balance shows up instantly.
💡 Perfect for when your mobile data is gone, or the FAB app won’t load.
4. FAB ATM & Phone Banking
- Any FAB ATM lets you check your balance for free
- Or call 600 52 5500, choose the IVR option for balance check
🚫 Slight downside: If you have multiple accounts, the IVR system can feel slow.
📊 Other Banks: What Do They Do Better (Or Worse)?
Let’s go bank-by-bank...
🏦 Emirates NBD
Pros:
- App is feature-rich and shows balance front and center
- Face ID login is flawless
- No need to click multiple buttons to see your balance
Cons:
- No USSD support
- SMS banking is limited
✅ Verdict: Great if you’re always online, not ideal if you need offline access.
🏦 ADCB (Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank)
Pros:
- Smooth app experience
- Balance displayed instantly after login
- Widgets available for quick view (Android only)
Cons:
- No SMS/USSD option
- Balance check via IVR requires long navigation
✅ Verdict: Very modern app. But not for the offline crowd.
🏦 Mashreq Bank
Pros:
- App is fast and lightweight
- SMS balance check is enabled
Cons:
- Interface not as sleek as FAB or ENBD
- Balance not always shown on dashboard
✅ Verdict: Simple enough, but can feel dated.
🏦 RAKBANK
Pros:
- App works well, with fingerprint login
- SMS banking is great for quick balance checks
Cons:
- USSD not supported
✅ Verdict: Good for SMS lovers. But a step behind FAB in app interface.
🏦 Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB)
Pros:
- Has SMS banking enabled
- App design is improved compared to 2020-2025
Cons:
- No USSD option
- App login takes longer than FAB
✅ Verdict: Okayish. Works, but could use refinement.
🧠 Human Insight: What Actually Matters When Checking Balance?
Here's what I've learned after doing my own personal banking in the UAE for many years.
- Speed is important. FAB balances more quickly than Mashreq or DIB.
- Offline access is important. If you've ever lost mobile data while abroad, FAB's *122# is a lifesaver.
- Simplicity is best. Some apps (especially older banks) hide the balance under 4 menu options.
- It's very important for the same content to be presented in a consistent way across all channels. FAB makes sure your balance is the same whether you check via app, text, or ATM.
Customer Reviews & Experiences
Zubin
5 months ago
Super trustworthy team. I first came in with a suspected issue on my SUV, and instead of trying to upsell or charge me for something I didn’t need, they checked everything thoroughly and confirmed it was all good—didn’t even charge me for it. That kind of honesty is rare. I later came back for a wheel alignment, and they really took their time to get it right. No rushed 5-minute job like I’ve experienced elsewhere—I've been scammed before, so I really appreciated the attention to detail. Their pricing is fair, and what I really respect is that they don’t try to speed through your car just because the next customer showed up. Driving from Dubai to Ajman for their service has always felt 100% worth it.
Bank Balance: 💰 5/5 | Savings: 📈 5/5 |Future Plans: 🌟 5/5

Zahir Sayyad
a year ago
5 stars for the service I received from Mr. Karim (Customer Service)
He took the initiative to help me with my query and within few mins resolved my concern.
I had also been to the Sahara center branch for the same issue but the person there was unwilling to help and made the process seem so difficult.
FAB needs people like Karim who put extra efforts to understand and help their customers.
Bank Balance: 💰 5/5 | Savings: 📈 5/5 |Future Plans: 🌟 5/5

hasib Omanoor
3 months ago
Ms. Mohamed al shehhi Excellent servies,very fast handling thank you team 👍
Bank Balance: 💰 5/5 | Savings: 📈 5/5 |Future Plans: 🌟 5/5

Roxanne Santiago
10 months ago
I had a great experience. Their customer service was quick and helpful. Ms. Ria did an excellent job resolving my issue. Highly recommend!
Bank Balance: 💰 5/5 | Savings: 📈 5/5 |Future Plans: 🌟 5/5

Russel Rasool
a year ago
Amazing & superb service by Mr NOUMAN ABBASI Transguard security . He's such a humble gentleman running errands to help & guide every other individual stepping into the bank with any questions or guidance.
I wish him good luck & Thanking FAB for selecting this gentleman who is so polite & a wonderful personality.
Bank Balance: 💰 5/5 | Savings: 📈 5/5 |Future Plans: 🌟 5/5

Mustafa Torky
10 months ago
The real meaning of work under pressure, i have seen in this branch, very fast and professional service,
Thank you FAB bank for having Fatima Mohamed experience
Bank Balance: 💰 5/5 | Savings: 📈 5/5 |Future Plans: 🌟 5/5

BENAICHA Anissa
a year ago
I was very well received by the agency in Deira City Center. My request was followed by Karim, an advisor on site. He was very professional, attentive and helpful. No complaints. Very satisfied. 👌🏼
Bank Balance: 💰 5/5 | Savings: 📈 5/5 |Future Plans: 🌟 5/5

Siva Kumar
3 years ago
Initially, I was disappointed to see the reviews before going there. But I went yesterday to discuss about my personal loan and i got the good experience with Mr. Muhammad Zeeshan Abbas (COS). He is a very helpful and polite person and supported me a lot......I hope other people also interact with customers in the same way and increase the google rating in future.
Bank Balance: 💰 5/5 | Savings: 📈 5/5 |Future Plans: 🌟 5/5

Talha Ansari
11 months ago
I visited Fab Bank today and my number came to Mr. (Nihal) and I told him my problem, he took me with confidence and talked to me very nicely And he solved my problem and explained it well and he is a very kind person he is very good man thank you mr (Nihal)
Bank Balance: 💰 5/5 | Savings: 📈 5/5 |Future Plans: 🌟 5/5

R. M art
7 months ago
Special thanks to Ms Nihal for understanding my issue and performing their duty in the best way possible
Bank Balance: 💰 5/5 | Savings: 📈 5/5 |Future Plans: 🌟 5/5



































