NBAD Bank Balance Check Salary Card Guide for Cardholders
Thousands of workers across the UAE rely on the nbad bank balance check salary card system daily to confirm their wages, track spending, and stay financially informed. Whether you are a blue-collar worker in Dubai, a contract employee in Abu Dhabi, or a laborer in Sharjah, understanding exactly how to perform an nbad bank balance check salary card inquiry is essential for effective money management in 2026. The National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD), now known as First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) after its merger with First Gulf Bank, offers various online and offline methods for checking your balance from the comfort of your home or workplace.
This guide provides every method, every step, and every piece of information you need — covering the FAB Ratibi prepaid card, WPS compliance, transaction history, online portals, mobile banking, SMS alerts, ATM inquiries, and customer care services — so that performing your nbad bank balance check salary card inquiry becomes second nature.
What Is the NBAD Salary Card and How Did It Come About?
To provide quick financial assistance to a company’s employees, the National Bank of Abu Dhabi launched the Ratibi Salary project in 2008. The objective of Ratibi is to enable companies to restructure old payment methods where the organization can regulate the payment process and permit employees to exchange money via cash registers and ATMs from anywhere in the world.
The Ratibi Prepaid Card was launched by FAB in 2008 to support employees who earn 5,000 AED or less. In order to receive their salaries, they do not need to have an active FAB account, and companies’ employers can directly transfer their employees’ pay to their Prepaid Ratibi Cards.
In simpler terms, the Ratibi card is a government-compliant, employer-funded prepaid card that puts wages directly into the hands of workers — no bank account required, no minimum balance obligation, and no complicated paperwork for the employee.
The National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) merged with First Gulf Bank (FGB) to form FAB, the biggest bank in the Middle East and North Africa. FAB provides banking solutions including flexible accounts, loans, credit cards, mobile banking, international transfers, and commercial banking.
Today, all NBAD salary card services are managed under the FAB umbrella, but the demand for nbad bank balance check salary card guidance remains consistently high, as millions of employees who received their cards under the NBAD branding continue to use the same system.
Understanding the Ratibi Prepaid Salary Card
Before diving into how to check your balance, it helps to understand what this card actually is and what it can do for you.
What Kind of Card Is It?
The NBAD Bank Salary Card (Ratibi Prepaid Card) offers immediate salary credit with a fully automated secure service, eliminating the risk of carrying high amounts of cash. It provides a free SMS alert every time salary is credited to the card, allows use at all ATMs and local stores, and is 100% compliant with UAE Government WPS Guidelines.
The NBAD Salary Card is a prepaid card offered by the National Bank of Abu Dhabi, designed for employees to receive and manage their salary payments. Its purpose is to provide easy access to funds without the need for a traditional bank account.
Who Is Eligible for This Card?
The Ratibi card is designed specifically for a defined segment of the UAE workforce:
The Ratibi Card is a prepaid payment card designed specifically for employees earning monthly salaries of 5,000 AED or below. Unlike traditional banking systems, the Ratibi Card allows you to receive your salary directly without maintaining a bank account. This innovative solution is fully compliant with the UAE’s Wages Protection System (WPS) guidelines.
Eligibility requirements include:
Before applying for a Ratibi Card, ensure you meet these essential criteria: UAE Residency — you must be a legal resident of the United Arab Emirates; Valid Documentation — you must possess a current Emirates ID and residence visa; KYC Compliance — complete and up-to-date Know Your Customer documentation; FAB Corporate Account — your employer must maintain a corporate account with First Abu Dhabi Bank; and WPS Registration — you must be registered with the UAE Wages Protection System.
Importantly, employees cannot apply individually — the employer must initiate the application.
How Does the Card Work?
The Ratibi salary card is a bank prepaid card through which employers can pay salary to their employees. Employees can use the card to withdraw money, remit money to any other country, make bill payments, and more. e& quick pay
Ratibi salary cards also enable cashless purchases since they are accepted at 5,000+ stores in the UAE.
The card works exactly like a regular debit card — you can shop at POS terminals, make online purchases, pay utility bills, withdraw cash from ATMs, and of course, perform an nbad bank balance check salary card inquiry at any time through a variety of channels.
Why Regularly Checking Your Balance Matters
Regularly checking the account balance helps you stay informed about transactions. You can also verify if the salary has been credited, monitor deductions, and confirm the completion of your bank transactions.
Financial planning and up-to-date information about your bank balance also helps in better financial planning. It allows individuals to make informed decisions regarding their savings, spending, and investments that significantly contribute to financial health.
For workers relying on this card as their sole financial tool, the nbad bank balance check salary card process is not optional — it is a fundamental part of financial self-management in the UAE.
To stay aware of finances, track spending, avoid overdrafts, or spot any suspicious activity in your NBAD salary account, regular balance checks are the way to go.
All Methods to Perform an NBAD Bank Balance Check
The following table provides a quick overview of every available method:
| Method | Requirements | Speed | Internet Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| FAB Website (Magnati PPC) | Card number last 2 digits + Card ID | Instant | Yes |
| FAB Mobile App | App login credentials | Instant | Yes |
| SMS to 6222 | Registered mobile number | ~10 seconds | No |
| ATM | Card + 4-digit PIN | Instant | No |
| Customer Care Call | Card details + identity | 2–5 minutes | No |
| FAB Branch Visit | Card + Emirates ID | Varies | No |
| POS Terminal | Card | Instant | No |
| Email Alerts | Registered email address | Automatic | No |
Method 1: Check Balance via the Official FAB/Magnati Website
The simplest digital way to perform your nbad bank balance check salary card inquiry is through the official online prepaid card inquiry portal.
Using the NBAD PPC (Payment Prepaid Card) official website is the easiest way to see your balance inquiry anytime, day or night.
Step-by-step process:
Via the FAB Ratibi inquiry page, you can check your NBAD salary card balance by entering your card details and prompting an inquiry. Click “Ratibi Prepaid Card Balance Inquiry.” You will be taken to the inquiry page. Enter the last two digits of your card number. Enter your card ID, which can be found at the lower left corner of your Ratibi card. Click the “Go” button.
Once the correct data is entered, the Transaction Screen can be accessed, where you can check the last ten transactions. Any particular transaction can be searched by referring to the date of the transaction, where you can access the debit amount, credit amount, and total balance for each transaction.
This method requires no login credentials, no password, and no additional app — just your card’s last two digits and your Card ID. It is ideal for workers who want a quick snapshot of their current salary card balance without downloading anything.
Method 2: Check Balance via the FAB Mobile Banking App
For immediate and go-anywhere convenience, the FAB mobile banking app is the most convenient way to check NBAD bank balance, check salary card, or simply make any transaction. For iOS and Android devices, it provides an easy-to-use interface for all your banking needs.
Step-by-step process:
Install and open the app. Enter your internet banking login details or register an account to access FAB digital banking services. Log in to your account. From the home screen, tap “Prepaid Cards” or your card’s image to view your available balance instantly.
The mobile app shows your balance in about half a second with the latest information.
For first-time users:
If it’s your first time, you’ll need to enter your ID number or debit card number, receive a temporary password via SMS, and set a 6-digit PIN for future logins. Once logged in, your account balance will be displayed on the home screen.
Beyond just balance checking, the FAB app also allows you to view full transaction history, lock or unlock your card, set up spending alerts, and manage card settings — all in one place.
Method 3: Check Balance via SMS (Without Internet)
For workers who do not have smartphones or internet access, SMS remains a fast and reliable way to perform the nbad bank balance check salary card inquiry without any digital connection.
Open your messaging app. Start a new message and enter 6222 as the recipient number. In the messaging app, type “BAL [Space] Last 4 Digits of Card.” For example, if the last 4 digits on your card read 1234, type: BAL 1234.
Send the message. Get your balance back in a text in about 10 seconds.
You will receive an SMS reply containing the details of your NBAD salary card balance.
Important note: Your mobile number must be registered with FAB for this service to work. If the SMS balance check is not working, make sure your phone number is registered with FAB. Try the alternative text number 2121 if 6222 does not work.
Method 4: Check Balance via ATM
You can also check your balance by visiting any NBAD or affiliated ATM.
Step-by-step process:
Locate any ATM stand around you. Insert your salary card and enter your 4-digit PIN. Select “Balance Inquiry.” Your NBAD card salary balance will appear, and you can opt to print a receipt.
Checking your balance at FAB ATMs is free for cardholders.
ATM balance checks are ideal for workers who need confirmation of their salary on the go — especially when salary day arrives and they want immediate proof that funds have been credited before making any purchases or withdrawals.
The National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) has numerous ATMs across Dubai and other UAE Emirates. Customers can easily check their bank account or salary card balance at a nearby ATM.
Method 5: Check Balance via Customer Care (Phone Call)
You can call FAB’s customer support at 600 525 500 (if you’re within the UAE) or through +971 2 681 1511 (if you’re outside the UAE) to request your NBAD card balance.
NBAD Customer Care Service is available 24/7 to assist customers with their bank accounts, prepaid cards, and credit cards. Customers can also make NBAD balance inquiries by calling the NBAD customer care number.
During the call: nbad bank balance check salary card
Listen carefully to the representative’s information to ensure you get the correct account balance. Ask any other account-related inquiries or questions during the call. Keep personal information shared during the call confidential to protect account security.
Note: Never share your PIN number over the phone, even with bank representatives. A legitimate FAB agent will never ask for your PIN.
Method 6: Check Balance via FAB Branch Visit
For an in-person inquiry, visit any FAB/NBAD branch and inquire how much balance is in your Ratibi salary card.
Bring your NBAD salary card and Emirates ID. Go to the customer help desk. Ask for balance information for your card. Get printed NBAD account statements if you need them.
Branch visits are recommended when you need detailed transaction statements, want to resolve a dispute about a missing salary deposit, or need to request a replacement card.
Method 7: Check Balance via POS Terminal at Stores
If you visit any stores or restaurants with POS facilities and want to check your FAB balance before spending your money, follow the steps available at the point-of-sale terminal.
When you swipe or tap your Ratibi card at a POS machine, many terminals display your available balance on screen before completing the transaction. This allows you to make informed purchasing decisions in real time.
Method 8: Email Alerts for Automatic Balance Notifications
Email alerts send balance updates straight to your email without you asking. They send messages when money moves in your account, provide monthly reports via email, tell you when your salary comes in, and warn you when your money is getting low.
Setting up email alerts means you never need to manually check your balance — the system notifies you automatically whenever salary is credited, whenever a transaction is made, or whenever your balance drops below a certain threshold.
Understanding the WPS (Wage Protection System) and Its Role
Ratibi follows the WPS (Wage Protection System) to prevent scams and ensure that employees get salaries on time.
WPS is an electronic salary transfer platform introduced by the UAE government in 2009.
The Ratibi Card operates under the Wage Protection System (WPS) to prevent scams and guarantee that employees receive their salaries on time. Reports are sent to regulators to ensure compliance with labor laws.
For the nbad bank balance check salary card process, WPS compliance means that every salary transaction is electronically logged and traceable. If a salary is not deposited on time, the employer may face regulatory penalties — giving employees an added layer of protection.
In case of a salary delay, the employees can use FAB balance records to provide evidence when making complaints.
How WPS Works in Practice
Employers sign up for the Ratibi Card system to pay employees earning AED 5,000 or less. They submit their company documents along with employees’ ID, visa, and labor card copies to FAB. Once everything is set, salaries are transferred directly from the employer’s bank account to each employee’s Ratibi Card through WPS. Employees can then use their cards right away.
Benefits of the NBAD Ratibi Salary Card
The Ratibi prepaid card is one of the most common salary cards in the UAE for employees earning less than AED 5,000 per month. Its popularity comes from WPS compliance (compulsory for payroll in the UAE), no bank account requirement, and no monthly fees.
Here is a comprehensive breakdown nbad bank balance check salary card of all key benefits:
For Employees:
Accessibility — no need for a bank account, making it useful for low-income or unbanked workers. Convenience — pay can be withdrawn at ATMs or spent in-store or online, like a debit card. Security — protected by PIN, reducing the risk from carrying cash. Zero Monthly Fees — no account maintenance costs. Global Use — usable across VISA/MasterCard networks worldwide. Free SMS Alerts — instant notifications for salary credit and transactions. Insurance — complimentary accident insurance.
Free Accident Insurance:
Free personal accident insurance is provided — in the event of death or permanent total disability of the cardholder due to an accident, they are eligible for 5 times the monthly salary or a maximum of AED 25,000. Hospitalization due to accident for at least 24 hours makes the cardholder eligible for a daily cash benefit of AED 50 (for a maximum period of 30 days).
For Employers:
Streamlined Payroll — simplifies payroll processing, especially for bulk salary payments. Compliance — meets government regulations under WPS guidelines.
When it is time to transfer the monthly salary, the company can quickly deposit the amount using Ratibi card payments, reducing the work, time, and cost of printing and distributing cash or cheques as wages.
Cost-Effective — lower operational costs compared to handling cash. Dedicated Support — access to specialized assistance and tailored payroll solutions.
How to Apply for the NBAD Ratibi Salary Card
As noted above, the employee cannot apply directly — the employer initiates the entire process. Here is what both parties need to do:
What the Employer Must Do
WPS Registration: The employer should register with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation’s WPS because they have to upload and fund salary files according to the agreements with WPS. Payroll File Submission Process: They should know how to use FAB-approved templates to list the details of employees.
Fill in the required details in the Ratibi application. Complete the employees’ details in the Excel sheet. Fill up the iBanking application form to enable online card management access. Submit the application forms to the nearest FAB branches.
What the Employee Must Provide
Eligibility: Any UAE National or UAE Resident. Documents required for full KYC process. Employer must have a corporate account with NBAD/FAB Bank. Employees do not need to open a bank account. Employees must be UAE residents. All employees must provide KYC documents.
How to Activate Your NBAD Salary Card
Once issued, the card must be activated before use. Download and install the FAB Mobile App on your smartphone. Log in or register if you are a new user. Go to the Cards or Account Services section. Find your Ratibi card from the list of cards. Tap Activate to begin the activation process. Create a 4-digit PIN when prompted. Confirm activation and wait for an SMS or in-app notification confirming your card is active.
Alternatively, you can activate your card by visiting any FAB branch and completing the activation process with the help of a bank representative.
How to View Your Full Transaction History
Beyond just checking the current balance, the nbad bank balance check salary card system also gives you access to a complete transaction history.
Through the Website:
Once the correct data is entered, the Transaction Screen can be accessed, where you can check the last ten transactions. Any particular transaction can be searched by referring to the date of the transaction, where you can access the debit amount, credit amount, and total balance for each transaction.
Through the FAB App:
Go to Cards and select your Ratibi Card. Tap Transactions or Statement to see salary deposits and spending. Statements can be downloaded or emailed directly from the app.
Through an ATM:
Insert your card into an FAB ATM and select Mini Statement to view or print recent transactions.
Through a Branch:
You can request a physical copy of your statement from the bank.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with multiple available methods, users sometimes encounter issues when trying to perform an nbad bank balance check salary card inquiry. Here are the most common problems and their solutions:
Problem: SMS Balance Check Not Working
Make sure your phone number is registered with FAB. Try the alternative text number 2121 if 6222 does not work.
Problem: Card Not Showing in Mobile App
App maintenance might temporarily hide cards. Wait for updates or reinstall the app.
Problem: ATM Refuses Transaction Despite Sufficient Balance
Check daily withdrawal limits or call customer service to check your account status.
Problem: Balance Inquiry Webpage Won’t Load
Clear browser memory, try a different browser, or use the mobile app instead. nbad bank balance check salary card
Problem: Salary Not Reflecting in Balance
Wait 24–48 hours for salary to process. If still wrong, call customer service.
If you don’t see a salary deposit, wait for one or two working days. However, if the issue continues, contact the customer support of NBAD.
Problem: Wrong Balance Displayed
If you ever notice a discrepancy in your NBAD Salary Card balance, check your transaction history to review your recent transactions and ensure there is no mistake. Contact Customer Support and reach out to NBAD for assistance. Verify Salary Deposits — double-check that your employer has made the correct payment.
Security Best Practices for Safe Balance Checking
Protecting your financial information is just as important as accessing it. To keep your NBAD (FAB) account and salary card secure, follow these important safety tips when checking your balance online: Avoid public computers for banking or balance checks. Keep your device software updated to protect against security threats. Never share your card details with anyone. Use the official FAB mobile app or website only. Enable two-step verification (2FA) for extra security. Do not share your PIN under any circumstances. Avoid using free or public Wi-Fi for online banking. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Log out after completing your balance inquiry. Turn on SMS or app alerts to monitor transactions. Never share OTPs or security codes, even if someone claims to be from the bank.
Additional tips:
If you lose your card, call the bank fast. They will block it to stop others from using it. You can ask for a new card if it is lost or damaged.
Fraudsters often target prepaid cardholders by impersonating bank officials. Always remember that no genuine FAB representative will ever ask for your PIN, OTP, or full card number over the phone.
What Happens When NBAD Became FAB?
Many workers who received their salary card under the NBAD brand wonder if their card is still valid or if procedures have changed.
NBAD and FAB are related. They merged in 2017 and are now considered the largest bank in the UAE as well as the Middle East. The merger combines the resources and strengths of both banks to offer enhanced services.
NBAD (National Bank of Abu Dhabi) became part of FAB, yet there are still many users who seek NBAD balance inquiries. The balance check process has not changed much — NBAD accounts are now driven by FAB, so the same methods remain relevant.
Your existing Ratibi card continues to work exactly as before. All portals, apps, SMS numbers, and ATM networks that supported the old NBAD system now operate under FAB branding.
NBAD Salary Card vs. Traditional Bank Account: Key Differences
| Feature | NBAD Ratibi Salary Card | Traditional Bank Account |
|---|---|---|
| Bank account required | No | Yes |
| Minimum balance | None | AED 3,000 (savings) |
| Salary eligibility | Up to AED 5,000/month | Any salary range |
| WPS compliant | Yes | Yes |
| ATM access | Yes | Yes |
| Online shopping | Yes | Yes |
| Monthly fees | None | Possible |
| Accident insurance | Free (included) | Not standard |
| International use | Yes (Visa/Mastercard) | Yes |
| Application by | Employer | Individual |
NBAD does not require a minimum balance. However, if you have a savings account, you have to maintain a minimum balance of AED 3,000.
The Role of International Remittances
The United Arab Emirates is the second-largest country in the world for remittances, which means a large population of the country sends money internationally across countries. However, the majority of workers in the UAE do not even have a bank account.
The Ratibi salary card bridges this gap by allowing workers to receive their wages electronically and then remit funds to their home countries — without requiring a traditional bank account at any stage of the process. The Ratibi prepaid card allows employees to not only withdraw money but also send it to their bank account in their native country, pay bills, and use it for many other purposes.
Checking Your NBAD Salary Card Balance from Outside the UAE
Workers who travel abroad or who have left the UAE but still hold a balance on their Ratibi card sometimes ask whether they can still perform an nbad bank balance check salary card inquiry from outside the country.
Yes, you can easily access the NBAD portal from anywhere in the world with a reliable internet connection.
You can call FAB’s customer support at +971 2 681 1511 if you are outside the UAE to request your NBAD card balance.
The Magnati PPC online inquiry portal is accessible globally, and the FAB mobile app works on any international data connection. SMS banking is also possible from abroad, though standard international messaging rates from your home country’s carrier may apply.
NBAD SWIFT Code for International Transfers
If you are looking for a routing or NBAD SWIFT code related to NBAD for international or domestic bank transfers, use the SWIFT code NBADAEAA or NBADAEAAXXX for FAB, while routing numbers such as 102710102 or 803510106 may apply depending on the transaction type or regional banking system involved.
This information is useful for workers who want to receive international transfers or for employers managing cross-border payroll operations.
Setting Up Salary Deposit Reminders and Notifications
One of the most practical features available to nbad bank balance check salary card users is the ability to set up automated notifications so you are always informed the moment your salary lands.
Setting up salary deposit reminders through the FAB mobile app assists you in receiving a reminder once your salary is deposited.
NBAD Bank offers a balance inquiry service via SMS, accessible to customers with a mobile number linked to their account or prepaid card.
Notification types available:
- SMS alerts when salary is credited
- SMS alerts when any transaction is made
- Email alerts with monthly statements
- In-app push notifications for real-time updates
- Low-balance warnings when funds drop below a set threshold
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many times can I check my Nnbad bank balance check salary card per day?
There are no restrictions — you can check your NBAD balance as many times as you like via any available method.
Is it free to check my balance?
Checking your balance at FAB ATMs is free for cardholders. The online portal, SMS service, and mobile app balance checks are also free of charge. Standard SMS rates from your mobile carrier may apply for the SMS method.
How will I know if my salary has been deposited on my Ratibi card?
You can be notified of salary deposits to your Ratibi card via SMS alerts, or you can check manually by visiting the FAB card balance inquiry webpage.
Can I use my NBAD salary card for online shopping?
Yes. The card facilitates online and in-store shopping as well as money transfers to other bank accounts.
What is my Card ID and where do I find it?
Your card ID can be found at the lower left corner of your Ratibi card. It is different from your card number and is required for the online portal inquiry.
What should I do if my card is lost or stolen?
If you lose your card, call the bank fast. They will block it to stop others from using it. You can ask for a new card if it is lost or damaged.
Can I check my NBAD balance at any ATM, not just FAB ATMs?
You can check your balance at NBAD or affiliated ATMs. The card operates on Visa/Mastercard networks, so it works at partner ATMs across the UAE and internationally.
Does the card have a credit facility?
No. The Ratibi is a prepaid card — you don’t need any loan for the prepaid card, as the bank will use the balance in your account for the transaction. There is no overdraft or credit feature attached to this card.
What happens if my employer doesn’t deposit salary on time?
In case of a salary delay, the employees can use FAB balance records to provide evidence when making complaints. You can also contact the UAE Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation if your employer consistently fails to pay on time, as WPS compliance violations carry penalties.
Can I transfer money from my Ratibi card to another person’s account?
Yes. The Ratibi card allows money transfers, international remittances, and bill payments in addition to standard purchases and ATM withdrawals.
Is WhatsApp banking available for NBAD balance checks?
FAB Bank’s salary card system is equipped with advanced security features, with balance check channels including the FAB official website, mobile app, SMS, ATMs, WhatsApp, Customer Care, email alerts, and POS terminals at stores.
How do I get a printed bank statement?
Insert your card into an FAB ATM and select Mini Statement to view or print recent transactions. Alternatively, visit an FAB branch and request a printed statement from customer service.
Is the NBAD Ratibi card accepted internationally?
Yes, the Ratibi Card works at any Visa or MasterCard network location worldwide, including ATMs, stores, and online platforms.
Final Thoughts: Mastering Your NBAD Bank Balance Check
The nbad bank balance check salary card process is one of the most searched financial topics among UAE workers, and for good reason. With millions of employees dependent on the Ratibi prepaid card for receiving their monthly wages, the ability to check, monitor, and manage their salary card balance quickly and securely is not a luxury — it is a necessity.
It is convenient and simple to do an NBAD bank balance check. Whether you view it on the NBAD website, FAB mobile banking application, or an ATM, being aware of your financial standing increases security, prevents overdrafts, and allows for better financial planning.
From the official Magnati PPC portal to SMS banking, from FAB ATMs to the full-featured FAB mobile app, every method covered in this article empowers you to stay in control of your finances at all times. Whether you perform your nbad bank balance check salary card inquiry once a day or once a week, the habit of regular monitoring will protect you from fraud, catch salary errors early, and help you plan your spending with confidence.
The Ratibi Card represents a significant advancement in salary payment systems for UAE employees. By eliminating the need for traditional banking while providing comprehensive benefits and global accessibility, it offers a practical solution for wage management.
Remember: your money is yours. Use every tool available — the website portal, the mobile app, SMS, the ATM, or a direct phone call — to stay informed about your nbad bank balance check salary card status at all times, protect yourself from unauthorized transactions, and ensure your employer is meeting their legal obligation to pay you accurately and on time.
For the most current and updated information, always refer to the official First Abu Dhabi Bank resources and contact their customer care team at 600 525 500 (within UAE) or +971 2 681 1511 (outside UAE) whenever you need direct assistance.
