Best Debit Cards for UAE Students in 2025

A woman using a laptop and credit card for online shopping at a cozy indoor setting.

Selecting the appropriate debit card is an important decision to undertake particularly when you are a student in the UAE. Since there are many options in choosing the right one, the process is costly, and choosing the one with your needs will in the long run yield good results. This guide provides a list of the 10 best debit cards for students in the UAE and the details on the aspects such as what they offer, in addition to how to apply for them.

1. Emirates NBD

The Emirates NBD Youth Go4it Debit Card is for youth especially students who need a friendly card to balance their budget will extra benefits. It has special offers and privileges for the youths it aims to serve.

Screen shot of Emirates NBD website homepage.

Key Features

  • No Minimum Balance: The advantage it has is monthly overdraft fees and no minimum balance requirements.
  • Free Transactions: 8 free teller transactions per month.
  • Perks: Discounts on Agoda hotels, free ferry rides, and movie offers.
  • Convenient Transfers: There are no charges for local and international transfers.

How to Get It

  1. Fill out the form available at the nearest Emirates NBD branch or apply online through their website.
  2. They should present an Emirates ID, a residency visa, a photocopy, and certified copies of a letter from the UAE educational institution verifying enrollment.
  3. As soon as your application has been approved you can expect to receive the card within 3-5 working days.

Read Also: Emirates NBD Credit Card Payment: Everything You Need To Know

2. First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)

The FAB Young Advantage Debit Card is a great option for students who do not want complex banking solutions and who seek to be rewarded.

Screenshot of First Abu Dhabi Bank Website Homepage.

Key Features

  • No Minimum Balance: For customers, flexibility of accounts concerning the minimum account balance is required.
  • Digital Banking: Online and mobile banking services.
  • ATM Access: They are readily accessible across all FAB’s branches.
  • Exclusive Offers: Access to student-friendly discounts.

How to Get It

  1. Interested applicants can fill out an online application form under the FAB website or drop an application at the FAB branch.
  2. Documents needed include Emirates ID, passport, and proof of enrollment.
  3. When validated, the card will be issued then it will be sent to you.

Read Also: Crack the FAB Car Loan Code: Your Ultimate Guide

3. Mashreq Bank Neo NXT

Neo NXT by Mashreq Bank is desirable for students embracing digital solutions with an Instagram-like interface.

A screenshot of Mashreq Bank Website Homepage

Key Features

  • No Minimum Balance: It helps to manage the money-related procedures in a very initial way and effectively.
  • Contactless Payments: Quicker and safer purchases.
  • Personalized Experience: Tailored banking features through their mobile app.
  • Digital Convenience: Can be used to access all the account features by way of online and/or mobile banking.

How to Get It

  1. Get the Mashreq Neo app and follow the application procedure.
  2. Photocopy of identification, proof of residence, and enrollment in an educational institution.
  3. Your card will be activated the first time you use your account.

Read Also: How to Close Mashreq Bank Account: Step-By-Step Guide

4. Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB)

The ADCB Young Advantage Debit Card offers the convenience of banking and more, with rewards and privileges designed for students.

A screenshot of Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank Homepage Website

Key Features

  • No Minimum Balance: Maintain your account without additional stress.
  • Exclusive Discounts: Delivers student-friendly service specials on different products and services.
  • ATM Access: Many have denned ATM networks in their branches to facilitate cash withdrawals.
  • Free Online Banking: Convenient account management.

How to Get It

  1. You can also submit a branch application or you can apply online using the ADCB.
  2. Show your Emirates ID card, residency papers, and confirmation you are enlisted.
  3. Upon approval, the debit card will be delivered to your doorstep.

Read Also: Apply for ADCB Debit Card: Instant Approval, No Annual Fees

5. Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD) Debit Card

CBD’s Debit Card is an excellent straightforward product for students who require ease and convenience and the bonus of fabulous features.

A screenshot of Commercial Bank of Dubai Website Homepage

Key Features

  • No Minimum Balance: Ideal for students managing limited funds.
  • Online and Mobile Banking: Interface of digital banking for the users.
  • ATM Access: The availability of ATMs is high among successful convenience stores.
  • Savings Options: Affordable charges on other linked saving accounts.

How to Get It

  1. Apply through CBD’s website or visit a branch near you.
  2. Submit your identification and enrollment documents.
  3. Collect your card once the application is approved.

6. Standard Chartered Bank Student Account

This card is particularly suitable for an international student who requires the facilities of an international banking infrastructure.

A screenshot of Standard Chartered Bank Website Homepage

Key Features

  • Global Network: Global FACILITY derived by Standard Chartered enables easy transactions.
  • No Minimum Balance: This does not require the holder to keep large amounts of money in the account.
  • Exclusive Discounts: Student-specific offers.
  • Digital Banking: Access your account online or via mobile.

How to Get It

  1. Applicable when used online or when the person approaches any outlets of Standard Chartered Bank in UAE.
  2. Documents to be provided include Emirates ID, passport, and genuine proof of enrolment.
  3. You will receive your new debit card within the next week after approval.

7. RAKBANK Student Account

RAKBANK provides an account type for students with extra facilities that are simple to open an account.

RAKBANK Student Account

Key Features

  • No Minimum Balance: They can be ideally used to address typical daily expenditures.
  • Digital Access: Free mobile banking and online.
  • Exclusive Perks: Discounts tailored for students.
  • ATM Network: Broad access across the UAE.

How to Get It

  1. Visit a RAKBANK branch or apply online.
  2. Submit your Emirates ID and other needed papers.
  3. Receive your card after processing.

8. Ajman Bank Student Account

Ajman Bank’s student account is an excellent choice for affordable and hassle-free banking.

A screenshot of Ajman Bank's Website Homepage.

Key Features

  • No Minimum Balance: Manage your account easily.
  • Digital Banking: Open and unrestricted access to mobile and online technologies.
  • Exclusive Offers: Student-centric deals and discounts.
  • ATM Access: Availability of other ATMs, especially of the Ajman Bank.

How to Get It

  1. Applicable only when the customer visits the branch, or applies online or through any of the Ajman branches.
  2. Provide Emirates ID, proof of residency, and student verification.
  3. You get a debit card after going through the credit check.

9. Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) Student Account

DIB offers a Sharia-compliant banking option with numerous benefits for students.

A screenshot of Dubai Islamic Bank Website Homepage.

Key Features

  • Sharia Compliance: Ethical banking solutions.
  • No Minimum Balance: Extensive student-friendly account management.
  • Digital Access: Online and mobile banking services.
  • ATM Network: Wide availability across the entire UAE.

How to Get It

  1. Visit a DIB branch or apply through their online portal.
  2. Required documents such as Emirates ID and proof of enrollment should be submitted as well.
  3. Your debit card shall be available for pick up or shipment.

Read Also: How To Activate Dubai Islamic Bank Debit Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

10. Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB)

The ADIB Amwali Savings Account offers shariah-compliant savings and debit card convenience for students.

A screenshot of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank Website Screenshot.

Key Features

  • Sharia Compliance: Banking aligned with Islamic principles.
  • No Minimum Balance: Enables easier handling of accounts or mere interpretation of the accounts.
  • Digital Convenience: All types of banking services that are available through internet connection or mobile devices.
  • Rewards: Attractive savings rates for account holders.

How to Get It

  1. Customers can apply online using the link provided on their website, or they can go to the nearest ADIB branch.
  2. You have to provide your Emirates ID, proof of residence, and proof of student enrollment.
  3. Your debit card can then be used immediately after the approval of its activation.

Read Also: UAE Debit Cards: Cashback, Rewards & More!

Final Words

When choosing a debit card, remember to evaluate:

  • Fees: Where possible, use cards that attract little or no charges at all.
  • Rewards: Search for rebates, lower prices, or any promotional offers.
  • Convenience: Select the credit cards that can be used at the nearest ATMs and have a friendly mobile application.
  • Security: Ensure advanced features like chip and PIN technology.

If these factors are considered, you can easily determine the best debit card that would help you manage your cash based on your student’s liking while enjoying perks in the UAE.

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