Why choosing a bank matters
In the Emirates, a manager’s check is considered one of the most reliable payment instruments. Most developers require it when purchasing real estate, and many corporate partners use this format when closing large transactions. Unlike a personal bank check, a manager’s check is guaranteed by the bank—the funds are debited immediately upon issuance, meaning the recipient is confident the amount is real and will be received without issue.
But there’s a caveat: issuance conditions vary by bank. For residents, the process is often simpler, but non-residents may require additional documents: a passport, visa, income certificate, and proof of source of funds. Fees also vary—some banks charge a fixed, minimal fee, while others can charge significantly more for corporate clients. Therefore, it’s important to understand in advance which banks in Dubai and the UAE offer manager checks and the terms.
Major banks in Dubai and the UAE where you can get a manager check
1. Emirates NBD
One of the largest banks in the region, and the preferred choice of foreign investors.
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Commission : from AED 15.75 to AED 31.50 per check for individuals; for corporate clients it can reach AED 157.50.
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Privileges : Priority Banking package includes 2 free checks per month, then 21 AED each.
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Release speed : usually the same day if the application is submitted before the cut-off time (usually before 2:00 PM).
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Features : actively works with foreigners, requires confirmation of the source of funds, and sometimes a copy of the purchase and sale agreement for large transactions.
2. Mashreq Bank
A bank with flexible terms and modern online banking.
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Commission : varies, according to customer reviews – from 30 to 150 AED depending on the package and amount.
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Release rate : most often same day.
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Features : more demanding of non-residents, but actively cooperate with real estate investors.
3. First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
The largest bank in the UAE, a reliable partner in international transactions.
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Commission : Usually around 25-50 AED per check.
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Release speed : within one working day.
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Features : strict document requirements; non-residents may be required to confirm the purpose of the transaction.
4. Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB)
Aimed at businesses and private clients.
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Commission : approximately 25-35 AED.
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Issue Speed : Expedited processing is possible, but depends on when you submit your application.
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Features : Indicates that manager checks are only available in AED.
5. Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB)
One of the largest Islamic banks.
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Commission : from 30 AED.
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Release speed : same day or next day.
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Features : operates according to the principles of Islamic finance, but the manager issues checks on a general basis.
6. RAKBANK
A bank with simplified procedures and clear rates.
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Commission : from 25 AED.
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Release rate : throughout the day.
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Features : Popular among small businesses and expats due to its affordable conditions.
What foreigners should consider
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Fees are approximate —banks updаte their rates from time to time. It’s worth confirming the exact fee amount before issuing a check.
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Non-residents : may face additional requirements (passport, visa, income certificate, proof of transaction).
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Currency : Manager cheques in the UAE are issued in AED only.
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Cut-off time : it is important to take into account the time until which the bank accepts applications in order to issue a check on the same day (usually until 2:00 PM).
Practical advice
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Choose a bank in advance – when dealing with real estate, it’s best to already have an account with the bank where you’ll issue the check.
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Check the fees – from 15 to 150 AED per check, depending on the bank and package.
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Please note the application deadline – to ensure your receipt is issued on the same day, submit your documents before the cut-off date.
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Keep the receipt and invoice – they may be needed when registering the transaction.
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For non-residents , it is better to contact large banks (Emirates NBD, FAB), as they have well-established procedures for working with foreigners.
Result
A Cheque Manager in the UAE is a versatile tool for secure, large-value payments. It’s available at most leading Dubai banks, including Emirates NBD, Mashreq, First Abu Dhabi Bank, ADCB, Dubai Islamic Bank, and RAKBANK. Terms and conditions vary: some charge minimal fees, while others require premium services or additional documents.
It’s important to remember that fees vary, and non-residents may have special requirements. Therefore, it’s best to confirm all details with your chosen bank in advance and prepare a full set of documents.
