Bank Affidavit Template for the United Arab Emirates

A Bank Affidavit is a sworn legal statement that you may need to provide when dealing with banking matters in the United Arab Emirates. This document serves as formal testimony under oath regarding specific banking-related facts or circumstances, and it carries significant legal weight in UAE courts and regulatory proceedings.

When do you need this document?

You will typically need a Bank Affidavit when your bank or UAE regulatory authorities require formal verification of banking information. Common situations include declaring the source of large deposits, confirming account ownership when documentation is incomplete, or providing sworn statements about lost banking instruments such as checkbooks or certificates of deposit. Financial institutions may also require this document during anti-money laundering investigations, when opening corporate accounts with complex ownership structures, or when dealing with inheritance matters involving deceased account holders. Additionally, if you are involved in legal proceedings where banking information is relevant, courts may require a Bank Affidavit to establish facts about your financial accounts.

Key legal considerations

When preparing a Bank Affidavit, you must ensure absolute accuracy as false statements can result in serious legal consequences under UAE law. The document must include your complete personal identification details, including Emirates ID or passport information, and precise banking details such as account numbers and branch information. Your declaration must be truthful and complete, as perjury in an affidavit can lead to criminal charges. Consider whether you need legal representation, particularly if the affidavit relates to complex financial transactions or ongoing legal disputes. The document should be clear about the specific purpose for which it is being created, and you should understand how the bank or requesting authority intends to use your sworn statement.

Legal requirements in United Arab Emirates

Under Federal Law No. 14 of 2018 (UAE Banking Law) and Federal Law No. 10 of 1992 (Evidence Law), your Bank Affidavit must meet specific formal requirements to be legally valid. The document must be executed before an authorized legal officer, such as a notary public or court official, who will verify your identity and witness your oath. You must provide valid identification, typically your Emirates ID for residents or passport for non-residents, and the affidavit must be signed in the presence of the legal officer. For certain banking matters, particularly those involving significant amounts or regulatory compliance under Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018 (Anti-Money Laundering Law), additional documentation or witness requirements may apply. If the affidavit will be used by international entities or in foreign jurisdictions, you may need to obtain additional authentication through the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs or relevant consulates.