FAB Swift Code

Overview

Whether you’re sending money overseas, receiving international payments, or managing global trade, understanding your bank’s SWIFT code is essential. For millions of customers in the UAE, the First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) — one of the largest and most trusted financial institutions in the region — serves as a gateway to global financial networks.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about FAB’s SWIFT code, how it works, where to find it, and how to use it for international transactions — along with branch-specific codes and best practices for cross-border transfers.

Read More: Explore related UAE banking insights — ADCB Swif code, [HSBC Online Banking], Mashreq swift code, and [Standard Chartered Swift Codes in UAE] on Uaebankbalance.com.

Understanding the FAB SWIFT Code

The SWIFT code (also known as the BIC code) is a unique international identifier that allows banks to securely communicate financial information across borders. Each code represents a specific bank and, in many cases, a particular branch.

For First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the SWIFT code serves as a global passport — connecting its UAE-based customers with the international financial ecosystem. Whether you’re receiving funds from London, transferring money to India, or managing trade settlements, the FAB SWIFT code ensures your transactions reach the right destination efficiently.

What Is the Official FAB SWIFT Code?

The main SWIFT/BIC code for First Abu Dhabi Bank in the UAE is:

NBADAEAA

This code identifies the head office of FAB in Abu Dhabi, which acts as the central processing unit for most international transactions.

Here’s the breakdown:

• NBAD – Represents “National Bank of Abu Dhabi” (legacy name before the merger with First Gulf Bank)
• AE – Country code for the United Arab Emirates
• AA – Location code (Abu Dhabi Head Office)

Even after the merger that created First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the bank retained its original SWIFT identifier NBADAEAA, maintaining international consistency for global banking partners.

FAB Branch-Specific SWIFT Codes

While the main code (NBADAEAA) covers most customer transactions, certain branches and divisions use specialized SWIFT codes for corporate, treasury, or trade finance operations.

Here are some of the most relevant FAB branch SWIFT codes in the UAE:

💡 Pro Tip: For most personal banking transfers, the general NBADAEAA code is sufficient. However, always confirm with your recipient’s branch for corporate or specialized transfers.

How SWIFT Codes Work

A SWIFT code acts as a digital address that enables banks around the world to send and receive messages securely. The Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) network standardizes these codes globally.

Each SWIFT code is composed of:

• 4 letters – Bank code
• 2 letters – Country code
• 2 letters – Location code
• Optional 3 letters – Branch code

For FAB’s main code (NBADAEAA):

• NBAD identifies the bank
• AE refers to the United Arab Emirates
• AA specifies the Abu Dhabi location

This ensures that every international payment, from currency conversions to remittances, is routed precisely to FAB’s secure system.

Why You Need the FAB SWIFT Code

If you’re sending or receiving money internationally through First Abu Dhabi Bank, you’ll need the correct SWIFT code for several reasons:

1. To Receive International Transfers – Your sender needs FAB’s SWIFT code to identify your bank.
2. To Send Funds Abroad – When transferring to foreign accounts, you must include the recipient’s SWIFT code.
3. For Trade or Corporate Payments – Businesses use SWIFT codes to process cross-border transactions and invoices.
4. For Digital Wallet & Fintech Integration – Many platforms like PayPal or Wise require the SWIFT code for linking UAE bank accounts.

Without the correct SWIFT code, international transactions can be delayed, rejected, or misrouted.

FAB’s Global Banking Network

As one of the largest banks in the Middle East, FAB maintains correspondent relationships with over 500 global banks, spanning North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

This network enables:

• Fast international remittances
• Competitive FX (foreign exchange) rates
• Secure global trade facilitation
• Real-time payment tracking through the SWIFT gpi system

FAB’s global presence includes offices in London, Paris, Hong Kong, Singapore, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, all interconnected through the same SWIFT framework for seamless international coordination.

How to Find Your FAB SWIFT Code

Finding your correct SWIFT code is easy — here’s how you can verify it:

1. Check your bank statement: Printed or digital statements include the SWIFT/BIC code.
2. Visit FAB’s official website: The “International Transfers” or “Contact Us” pages list current codes.
3. Use mobile banking: Log into the FAB app → select your account → view details → “SWIFT/BIC code.”
4. Contact your branch: A customer representative can confirm your exact branch code.

⚠️ Always double-check before initiating a large transfer — using the wrong code may delay funds or incur return fees.

How to Use the FAB SWIFT Code for International Transfers

Let’s say you’re receiving funds from abroad — here’s the information you’ll typically share with the sender:

• Your Full Name (as per account)
• Your FAB Account Number / IBAN
• FAB SWIFT Code: NBADAEAA
• FAB Branch Name and Address

Example:

Beneficiary Name: Ahmed Ali
Account Number / IBAN: AE123456789012345678901
Bank Name: First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
Branch: Khalifa Business Park, Abu Dhabi, UAE
SWIFT Code: NBADAEAA

Once entered, the sender’s bank uses SWIFT messaging to route the payment through intermediary banks until it reaches FAB, where the funds are credited to your account.

FAB International Transfers: Time & Cost

Transfer timelines vary based on origin and currency:

Fees depend on destination, intermediary banks, and currency type. However, FAB offers competitive international transfer rates and real-time exchange rate previews through its online banking portal.

SWIFT vs. IBAN: What’s the Difference?

Many customers confuse SWIFT codes and IBANs, but they serve different roles:

In short, SWIFT tells the world where to send your money, while IBAN tells it exactly whose account to send it to.

FAB Swift Code for Corporate Clients

FAB serves thousands of corporate and institutional clients who rely on real-time global payments. For these, specialized corporate SWIFT channels exist — integrating with ERP systems and Treasury APIs to automate bulk payments and payroll transfers.

FAB’s Corporate Banking Division also supports SWIFT gpi (Global Payments Innovation), allowing businesses to track cross-border transactions end-to-end.

Security of SWIFT Transfers

FAB’s SWIFT transactions are encrypted and regulated by:

• SWIFT global standards
• UAE Central Bank regulations
• Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance
• Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols

This ensures that every international transfer meets the highest standards of transparency and cybersecurity.

Troubleshooting FAB SWIFT Transactions

If your transfer is delayed or returned:

1. Reconfirm that the SWIFT code and IBAN are correct.
2. Check for intermediary bank charges or weekend processing delays.
3. Contact FAB Customer Support or visit your nearest branch.

FAB’s support team provides real-time updates via phone, live chat, and branch visits, ensuring you’re always informed about your international transaction status.

FAB Swift Code by Emirate (Quick Reference)

Why FAB Is a Trusted Name in International Banking

FAB’s reputation as a global banking leader is built on:

• Strong liquidity and credit ratings (Aa3 / AA- by Moody’s and S&P)
• Presence in 20+ international markets
• Transparent Sharia-compliant finance options
• Commitment to sustainability and digital transformation

For UAE residents and global businesses alike, FAB represents security, trust, and seamless connectivity across continents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About FAB Swift Code

Q1: What is FAB’s main SWIFT code?
The main SWIFT code for First Abu Dhabi Bank is NBADAEAA.

Q2: Is NBADAEAA still valid after the merger?
Yes. FAB continues to use NBADAEAA for global transactions to maintain continuity.

Q3: Do I need a different SWIFT code for each branch?
Not usually. The main code works for most transfers, but corporate clients may use branch-specific codes.

Q4: How long does an international transfer take with FAB?
Typically between 1–3 business days, depending on origin and intermediary banks.

Q5: Can I receive USD, GBP, or EUR payments to my FAB account?
Yes. FAB supports all major currencies and provides automatic conversion at market rates.

Q6: Is there a fee for incoming international transfers?
Yes, small processing fees may apply, depending on the sending bank and currency.

Q7: How can I verify my FAB SWIFT code?
Check your account statement, mobile app, or FAB’s website under “International Transfers.”

Q8: Are SWIFT transfers safe?
Absolutely. FAB uses encrypted communication through the global SWIFT network, regulated by the UAE Central Bank.

Q9: Can I make SWIFT transfers online?
Yes. Use FAB Online Banking or the FAB Mobile App for fast, secure international payments.

Q10: What happens if I use the wrong SWIFT code?
Funds may be returned to the sender, minus intermediary bank fees — always verify before sending.

Final Thoughts

The FAB SWIFT code (NBADAEAA) stands as the bridge between the UAE’s robust financial ecosystem and the world. Whether you’re a business owner managing trade flows or an individual sending money home, understanding your SWIFT code ensures every transaction moves securely, accurately, and efficiently.

In an era where speed, transparency, and compliance matter more than ever, First Abu Dhabi Bank continues to embody what global banking excellence means — connecting the UAE confidently to the world