I recently opened a business bank account in Dubai and need to issue cheques for office rent and a few suppliers. How do I get a cheque book, and do I have to visit the bank branch?
Yes, you can usually request a business cheque book through your UAE bank, although the exact process depends on the bank and your business bank account package. Many UAE banks allow cheque book requests through corporate online banking, while some may require a branch visit or signed request.
How to Request a Business Cheque Book
- Through Online or Mobile Banking
If your bank supports digital requests, the process is generally:
- Log in to your corporate online banking or mobile app.
- Go to Account Services or Cheque Services.
- Select Cheque Book Request.
- Choose the relevant business account and number of cheque leaves.
- Confirm the request using the required OTP or digital authorization.
For a new business account, banks may commonly issue a smaller book, such as 10 leaves, depending on their policy.
- Through a Bank Branch
If the online option isn't available, an authorized signatory can visit the branch and submit a cheque book request form.
The bank may ask for:
- Authorized signatory's Emirates ID
- Company Trade License
- Account details
- Previous cheque book counterfoil, if you are requesting a replacement or additional book
How Long Does It Take?
Once approved, a cheque book may typically be available within 2–5 working days, either through courier delivery or branch collection, depending on the bank.
Are There Any Charges?
Cheque book fees vary between banks and account packages. Some accounts may offer the initial cheque book free, while others can charge a fee depending on the number of leaves or type of account. Charges can range up to around AED 250 in certain cases.
One important point for new businesses: having a cheque book doesn't mean every cheque will automatically be accepted by a supplier or landlord. Make sure your account is active, adequately funded, and that the authorized signatories and signing rules are correctly set up.
If you're regularly paying office rent, suppliers, or other business expenses by cheque, I would also recommend checking your bank's cheque issuance limits, charges, and delivery process before choosing your corporate account package.
