Pick FAB for maximum scale and the widest network; pick ADCB if its cashback cards and TouchPoints rewards match your spending. Both are Abu Dhabi-headquartered conventional banks with strong UAE-wide coverage, so the call usually comes down to card fit and specific account perks.
What this means for you
- Both are Abu Dhabi-rooted with wide UAE networks, so branch access is rarely the deciding factor.
- ADCB is well known for cashback cards and the TouchPoints programme; FAB offers a broader premium and travel range.
- FAB's larger balance sheet can matter for large mortgages or corporate needs; ADCB is highly competitive on everyday retail.
- Prefer Islamic banking? FAB uses FAB Islamic; ADCB offers it through Al Hilal Bank.
FAB vs ADCB — side by side
A neutral comparison of what can be verified publicly. Figures such as exact rates and fees change frequently and are intentionally left qualitative — confirm current numbers on each bank's published schedule of charges.
| Dimension | First Abu Dhabi Bank | Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Scale & home emirate | The UAE's largest bank by assets, headquartered in Abu Dhabi (formed from the 2017 NBAD–FGB merger). | One of the UAE's largest banks, headquartered in Abu Dhabi (2019 merger with UNB and Al Hilal Bank). |
| Conventional vs Islamic | Conventional; Sharia-compliant accounts and cards are offered through FAB Islamic. | Conventional; Sharia-compliant banking is offered through its Al Hilal Bank arm. |
| Everyday accounts | Current, savings, salary-transfer and multi-currency accounts, plus premium/elite tiers for higher balances. | Current, savings and salary-transfer accounts, plus Privilege and Private tiers. |
| Credit-card line-up | A broad range spanning cashback, air-miles/travel and premium cards, with Etihad Guest tie-ins on some products. | Known for cashback cards and the TouchPoints rewards programme, alongside travel and lifestyle cards. |
| Digital & app experience | A full-featured mobile app for payments, cards and transfers; widely used, if less singled-out than ENBD’s app. | The app covers day-to-day banking, card controls and rewards redemption; well-rated across app stores. |
| Branch & ATM footprint | One of the widest branch and ATM networks in the UAE, densest in Abu Dhabi. | A wide UAE-wide branch and ATM network, strongest in Abu Dhabi. |
| Notable fees | Follow FAB’s published schedule of charges; card annual fees are commonly spend- or salary-waived — confirm current terms. | Follow ADCB’s published schedule of charges; card fee waivers are typically spend-linked — confirm current terms. |
FAB vs ADCB — FAQ
Are FAB and ADCB both Abu Dhabi banks?
Yes. Both First Abu Dhabi Bank and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank are headquartered in Abu Dhabi and operate nationwide across the UAE.
Which has better cashback cards?
ADCB is particularly known for its cashback cards and TouchPoints rewards, but FAB also offers cashback and rewards cards. The best card depends on your monthly spend by category — our Card Stack Builder ranks them by what you’d actually earn.
Is FAB bigger than ADCB?
Yes. FAB is the UAE’s largest bank by assets, formed from the 2017 NBAD–FGB merger. ADCB is also among the UAE’s largest, enlarged by its 2019 merger with Union National Bank and Al Hilal Bank.
Do both offer Islamic accounts?
Yes — FAB through FAB Islamic and ADCB through its Al Hilal Bank arm.
Where can I check exact fees?
Fees and rates change frequently, so confirm the current figure on each bank’s published schedule of charges. This page compares what’s neutrally verifiable — networks, card ranges, accounts and digital experience.
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Neutral comparison for information only — not financial advice or a recommendation of either bank. Bank details, fees and card terms change; always confirm the current figures on each bank's official website before deciding.