Hi Maria

This is a great question, and the answer depends on whether you're applying as a UAE resident or a non-resident for a business bank account in UAE.

If you're a UAE resident, banks will normally require you to use the passport that is linked to your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. This helps ensure your banking records match the government's identity systems and avoids delays during the verification process.

If you're applying as a non-resident, you generally have more flexibility. Most banks will accept either of your valid passports, provided you can satisfy their KYC (Know Your Customer) requirements and submit the necessary supporting documents.

Keep in mind that if you hold dual nationality, the bank may ask for additional information about both citizenships as part of its compliance review. This is a standard process under the UAE's anti-money laundering (AML) regulations and doesn't necessarily indicate a problem with your application.

I assisted a client who held both a European and a Middle Eastern passport. Since he was a UAE resident, the bank asked him to use the passport linked to his Emirates ID, while also requesting details of his second nationality during the compliance review. Once the documentation was provided, the account opening process continued without any issues.

My advice is to disclose both nationalities honestly from the beginning. Being transparent with the bank helps avoid unnecessary questions later and allows the compliance team to process your application more efficiently.