Overview
Licensed activity: Banking Consultant (6619.90)
Banks open accounts for clients they understand and can defend to their regulator. Most refusals come from incomplete files, unclear source of funds or a business story that does not match the documents.
Vanguard's team comes from inside private banking and compliance. We assess your bankability first, match you to one primary bank and one alternative, and prepare a single consolidated account opening pack before anything is submitted.
Vanguard does not open accounts and does not hold client money. Account approval is always the bank's decision, made under its own risk appetite and the rules of the Central Bank of the UAE.
Who it is for
- New UAE residents opening a personal account
- Eligible non residents who need a UAE account
- Newly licensed companies that need a corporate account
- Private clients seeking an introduction to a private banking team
- Clients whose previous application was declined and who want a properly prepared file
What we do
Bankability Assessment
Identity, residency, purpose, source of funds and risk factors reviewed before we quote, so you know where you stand.
Bank Selection
One primary bank and one alternative, matched to your nationality, residency, sector, currencies and relationship size.
Account Opening Pack
One consolidated file with a client profile, identity documents, corporate documents and a clear source of wealth narrative.
Submission and Follow Up
Submission through the bank's agreed channel, a fixed follow up rhythm and complete answers to every compliance query.
How it works
- Private ConsultationWe understand why you need the account, the expected activity and your history with banks.
- Bankability ReviewEach area is rated so you know whether you are ready now or after a few remediation steps.
- Pack PreparationDocuments are collected through the secure portal, checked and assembled into one consolidated pack.
- Bank SubmissionWe submit to the selected bank, record the reference and keep you updated after every contact.
- Compliance QueriesQuestions from the bank are answered once, fully and with evidence.
- OutcomeApproval details are shared with you securely; if the bank declines, we explain the gap before any next step.
Documents typically required
- Valid passport and, where held, UAE residence visa and Emirates ID
- Proof of residential address issued within the last three months
- Source of funds and source of wealth evidence
- Recent personal or company bank statements
- Trade licence, memorandum of association and shareholder register for companies
- Business evidence such as contracts, invoices and a company profile
Requirements vary by nationality, structure and the policies of the relevant authority or institution. You receive a precise checklist after your consultation, and documents are shared through the secure client portal.
Timeline indications
- Bankability review
- Fast when identity, residency and source of funds are clear.
- Pack preparation
- Depends mostly on how quickly documents and statements can be provided.
- Bank review
- Set by the bank. Compliance queries and enhanced due diligence extend it.
How fees work
Our professional fee depends on your situation and the scope of work. After a short private consultation we send a written quotation. Government fees and third party costs, where applicable, are separate.
Frequently asked questions
Can a non resident open a bank account in the UAE?
Some UAE banks accept eligible non residents for personal or corporate accounts, subject to their own criteria. We assess your profile and tell you honestly whether a UAE account is realistic before you spend time on an application.
Do you guarantee that the account will be opened?
No. Approval is always the bank's decision. We make your application complete, accurate and easy to understand, which is what gives it the best chance.
What if I was declined before?
We find out what the gap was, fix it before approaching another bank and disclose the previous refusal truthfully if the bank asks. We never misrepresent a client.
Which bank is right for me?
It depends on your residency, nationality, sector, currencies and the size of the relationship. We recommend one primary bank and one alternative rather than applying everywhere.
Does Vanguard hold or move my money?
No. Your funds stay with you and the institution you choose. Vanguard does not hold or move them.
Subject to eligibility criteria set by the relevant UAE authorities and banks. Approval decisions rest solely with the relevant authority or institution.