If you’re a customer of First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) — previously known as National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) after the merger — this guide walks you through every method to check your balance, especially for prepaid salary cards such as the Ratibi Card.
We’ll look at online, mobile, SMS, ATM, and call-centre options, along with useful tips for security and convenience.
Why Regular Balance Checking Matters
Staying on top of your balance with NBAD, FAB Balance Check and inquiry online has numerous benefits:
- Enables you to monitor your spending and manage your budget more effectively.
- Helps avoid overdraft fees or unexpected declined transactions.
- Lets you detect unauthorised activity (especially relevant for prepaid/salary cards).
- Gives you peace of mind — you know exactly how much funds remain.
Because NBAD is now FAB, the services listed below are mostly labelled under FAB; but many legacy references still mention NBAD.
Key Entities & Terminology to Understand
| Term | Description |
| NBAD / FAB | NBAD (National Bank of Abu Dhabi) merged and now trades as First Abu Dhabi Bank. |
| Ratibi Card | A prepaid salary card issued by FAB for Ratibi card salary check and often used under UAE’s Wages Protection System (WPS) for employees without a full bank account. |
| Balance Check | The process of checking how much money is remaining in an account or card. |
| Salary/prepaid card | A card where salary is credited (often via employer) and the user can spend or withdraw from it. |
Methods to Check Your FAB (NBAD) Balance
Here’s a breakdown of all available methods, their context, speed and suitability.
1. Online Web Portal
Ideal For: Using any browser, minimal login, quick check for prepaid cards.
Steps:
- Visit the official FAB website → Prepaid Cards / Salary Card Balance Enquiry.
- Enter the last 2 digits of your card number (for Ratibi card) and your Card ID (found on the card).
- Click “Go” and view your available balance.
Pros: Instant access, no full login sometimes required.
Cons: Need internet access and card details.
| Method | Speed | Suitable For |
| Web Portal | Very fast | Users with card details, preference for online |
2. Mobile Banking App
Ideal For: Smart-phone users who want more features (balance + transactions).
Steps
- Download & install the FAB mobile app (iOS/Android).
- Log in with your credentials (or biometric, if enabled).
- Navigate to “Accounts” or “Cards” section and select your card to view balance.
Pros: Very convenient, full banking access.
Cons: Requires registration and sometimes app updates.
3. SMS Banking
Ideal For: Users without smartphones or when internet is unreliable.
Steps (for prepaid/salary card):
- Ensure your card/account is registered for SMS banking.
- Compose a new message: BAL [Last 4 Digits of Card] (example).
- Send to the designated number (e.g., 6222 for Ratibi card).
- Receive SMS with the available balance.
Pros: Works without smart-phone.
Cons: Charges may apply for SMS; limited features.
4. ATM Balance Inquiry
Ideal For: Traditional users, offline access, receipt printing.
Steps:
- Visit any FAB (or affiliated) ATM.
- Insert your FAB / Ratibi card, enter PIN.
- Select “Balance Inquiry” option.
- View or print your balance receipt.
Pros: No internet needed; immediate.
Cons: You need physically visit ATM; possible waiting lines.
5. Customer Support / Branch Visit
Ideal For: If other methods fail or you need assistance.
Steps:
- Call FAB Customer Care: e.g., within UAE 600 525 500; outside UAE +971 2 681 1511.
- Visit nearest FAB branch with your card and ID; ask staff for balance enquiry.
Pros: Great for troubleshooting.
Cons: Slower; might involve wait time.
Comparative Table of Methods
| Method | Requires Internet? | Speed | Device Needs | Best Use Case |
| Web Portal | Yes | Instant | Any browser | Quick check when offline apps not used |
| Mobile App | Yes | Very fast | Smartphone | Full banking access + transactions |
| SMS Banking | No or minimal | Fast | Basic phone | Low-tech access, quick check |
| ATM Inquiry | No | Instant | Card + PIN | Offline, physical access |
| Customer Support | No | Moderate | Phone/Branch visit | Help with issues or non-digital users |
Best Practices & Security Tips
- Keep your card details & PIN confidential. Sharing them increases risk
- Use secure WiFi when checking online or in app; avoid public networks without protection.
- Log out after using the mobile app or web portal.
- Enable alerts (SMS/email) for credits or debits to your salary/prepaid card.
- Check your balance regularly — daily or weekly depending on your usage — for better financial control.
- If changes in the bank (e.g., NBAD → FAB) cause confusion, always refer to latest official bank communications.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Is NBAD the same as FAB?
A: Yes. NBAD merged with First Gulf Bank and now operates under the name First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB).
Q: Can I check my Ratibi or salary card balance as many times as I like?
A: Yes, there are no limits on how often you can check your balance.
Q: Does checking my balance via SMS cost money?
A: While the enquiry itself may be free, standard SMS charges from your mobile provider may apply; check with your carrier.
Q: I don’t have internet access — what is the easiest way to see my balance?
A: Use SMS banking or visit an ATM for balance inquiry — both work offline.
Q: My card details changed (due to bank work) — do I still follow the same method?
A: Yes, in most cases the methods remain the same. Always check the official FAB website for any updated instructions.
Conclusion
Whether you’re using a salary-card like the Ratibi prepaid card or a standard current/savings account with FAB (formerly NBAD), staying on top of your balance is crucial. With multiple options — web portal, mobile app, SMS, ATM or branch support — you can choose the method that suits you best. Incorporate a regular balance-check routine to strengthen your financial awareness and avoid surprises.
