Adding a Beneficiary in FAB: Why It Matters

Before you can send money to another person or business through First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), you need to add them as a beneficiary. This is a one-time process that makes future transfers faster and reduces the risk of sending money to the wrong account. Here's how to do it correctly.

Types of Beneficiaries in FAB

  • Within FAB: Transfers to another FAB account holder — typically instant and free.
  • Other UAE Banks (UAEFTS / SWIFT local): Transfers to accounts at other UAE banks — usually same-day or next-day.
  • International (SWIFT/Wire): Transfers abroad — require IBAN or SWIFT/BIC codes and may take 1–3 business days.

Adding a Beneficiary via the FAB Mobile App

  1. Open the FAB Mobile App and log in.
  2. Tap "Transfers" from the main menu or bottom navigation bar.
  3. Select "Manage Beneficiaries" then tap "Add New Beneficiary".
  4. Choose the type: FAB Account, Other UAE Bank, or International.
  5. Enter the required details:
    • Beneficiary's full name
    • IBAN (for UAE transfers) or account number + SWIFT code (for international)
    • Bank name and branch (if required)
    • Nickname (optional, for your reference)
  6. Review the details carefully, then confirm with the OTP sent to your registered mobile.
  7. The beneficiary is typically activated after a cooling-off period (usually a few hours to 24 hours) for security purposes.

Adding a Beneficiary via FAB Online Banking

  1. Log in at www.bankfab.com and go to Transfers.
  2. Click "Add/Manage Beneficiaries".
  3. Complete the same fields as above and authorize with your OTP.

Making a Transfer After Adding a Beneficiary

  1. Go to Transfers in the app or online portal.
  2. Select "Transfer to Beneficiary".
  3. Choose the beneficiary from your saved list.
  4. Enter the amount and select the account to debit.
  5. Add a reference or note (optional but useful for record-keeping).
  6. Review all details, then confirm the transfer with your MPIN or OTP.

IBAN Format for UAE Banks

All UAE bank transfers now require an IBAN (International Bank Account Number). UAE IBANs follow this structure:

Component Example Length
Country Code AE 2 letters
Check Digits 07 2 digits
Bank Code + Account 0330000011234567 19 digits

Total UAE IBAN length: 23 characters. Always double-check the IBAN with the recipient before confirming the transfer.

Tips for Safe Transfers

  • Verify before you send: Always confirm the beneficiary's account details directly with them — don't rely on details sent via email or WhatsApp, which could be compromised.
  • Use the beneficiary nickname to distinguish between multiple contacts with similar names.
  • Start with a small test transfer for large amounts to confirm the account is correct before sending the full sum.
  • Keep an eye on the beneficiary cooling period — plan ahead if you need to send money urgently to a new contact.
  • Check applicable transfer fees in the FAB schedule of charges before initiating international wires.

Removing or Editing a Beneficiary

You can delete or update a beneficiary at any time through the "Manage Beneficiaries" section in both the app and online banking. Editing a beneficiary may trigger another cooling-off period for security reasons.