NBAD Balance Inquiry (Ratibi Card) Online 2025
Many people in the UAE still use the term “NBAD balance inquiry” when searching for ways to check the balance on their salary card or prepaid card. Even though NBAD, the National Bank of Abu Dhabi, merged with First Gulf Bank (FGB) to form First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the process of checking your balance remains easy and familiar. Workers, employees, and cardholders across the UAE continue to receive salaries on older NBAD or Ratibi cards, which is why this topic is still highly relevant.
This article gives you a complete, simple, and updated explanation of how to check your NBAD card balance today, now powered by FAB services. Everything is written in a straightforward and beginner-friendly way so that anyone can follow it without confusion.
Understanding NBAD and Why the Term Is Still Used
Before the merger, NBAD was one of the most trusted and widely used banks in the UAE. Many companies issued NBAD salary cards, especially Ratibi cards, to employees who did not have a full bank account. These cards were easy to use, simple to recharge, and offered an easy way to receive salaries.
When NBAD merged with FGB, the new bank became First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB). Despite this name change, millions of older NBAD cards remained active. Employees still receive salaries on them, and companies still use the same card format. Because of this familiarity, users continue to search for NBAD balance inquiry methods even today.
In reality, the balance inquiry systems now operate under FAB. However, the steps remain simple and almost identical to the original NBAD process.
Why Checking Your NBAD Balance Is Important
Cardholders often need to check their NBAD or FAB balance for several important reasons. Salary card and prepaid card users rely on fast access to balance information, especially when they need to withdraw money, send funds home, or make daily purchases.
Some of the most common reasons include:
- Confirming that salary has been deposited
- Tracking monthly expenses
- Verifying recent transactions
- Preventing unauthorized use or fraud
- Managing funds while travelling or working long hours
- Staying aware of available balance for ATM withdrawals or payments
Because these salary cards are often used by workers who do not maintain full bank accounts, balance inquiry is one of the most essential features.
Methods to Check NBAD or FAB Card Balance
There are several official and reliable methods to check your NBAD card balance. These options work whether you have internet access or not, and whether you prefer using your mobile phone, computer, or an ATM.
Below are the most common and practical methods.
1. Online Balance Inquiry Through the Official Portal
This is one of the fastest and most straightforward ways to check your card balance. The FAB prepaid card portal allows NBAD cardholders to check balance without creating an account or logging in.
You simply need two details:
- The last two digits of your card number
- The Card ID printed on the front or back of your card
Once you enter these details, the portal instantly displays your current balance and your recent transactions. Many workers prefer this method because it does not require downloading any application and works quickly wherever the internet is available.
2. FAB Mobile Banking Application
The FAB Mobile App is the most complete and feature-rich method for checking balance and managing your card. Although it is now branded under FAB, NBAD cardholders can still register and use it effortlessly.
After installing the app, you can:
- View your current card balance
- Check full transaction history
- Freeze or unfreeze your card
- Set spending limits
- Receive alerts when salary is deposited
- Manage multiple cards if needed
This method is ideal for users who want more control and additional features beyond a basic balance check. If you use your card regularly, having the app installed makes things much easier.
3. SMS Balance Inquiry
This method is useful for people who may not always have internet access. It is simple and works from any registered mobile number.
To check your balance, you send an SMS containing the word BAL followed by the last four digits of your card number. The bank then replies with your available balance.
The SMS method is popular among workers because it is quick, reliable, and does not require a smartphone or data connection. As long as your mobile number is registered with the bank, you can use this option anytime.
4. Checking Balance at an ATM
Any FAB ATM machine allows you to check your balance. You simply insert your card, enter your PIN, and choose the balance inquiry option. The ATM will show your available balance, and if you prefer, you can print a mini statement.
This method is helpful for users who like physical receipts or want to stay away from online systems.
5. Phone Banking and Customer Support
If you face issues with your card, or if your card is lost, blocked, or damaged, phone banking is the best option. FAB provides dedicated customer service numbers that assist NBAD cardholders with balance inquiries and other banking concerns.
After verifying your identity, the agent can tell you your balance and help solve any issues related to your card.
Quick Reference Guide for NBAD and FAB Balance Inquiry
Here is a simple and clean cheat-sheet that you can save.
Online Portal:
Visit the official FAB prepaid card inquiry page. Enter the last two digits of your card and your Card ID to view balance instantly.
Mobile App:
Install the FAB Mobile App. Register using your card details. Open the cards section to view your balance and transaction history.
SMS Method:
Send the message BAL followed by the last four digits of your card number from your registered mobile number. You will receive an SMS reply with your balance.
ATM Method:
Insert your card into any FAB ATM. Enter your PIN and choose Balance Inquiry to view your available funds.
Customer Support:
Call FAB’s customer service helpline if you need assistance or cannot access your balance through other methods.
Ratibi Card Users and Balance Inquiry
Many NBAD salary cards were issued under the Ratibi program. These cards were specifically designed for employees earning monthly salaries without requiring a full bank account.
Ratibi cards salary check remain active under FAB and support the same balance inquiry methods. Whether online, through SMS, or via ATM, the process is exactly the same. This is one reason the NBAD balance inquiry system continues to be widely used today.
Common Problems During NBAD Balance Inquiry
Users may sometimes face difficulties when checking their card balance. The most common issues include:
- SMS not working due to an unregistered mobile number
- Delay in salary deposit, causing balance to appear lower than expected
- ATM showing errors due to network issues or card expiration
- Online portal not loading due to incorrect card details
- Mobile app not recognizing card because it is not added correctly
Most of these problems can be solved by checking the card details carefully or contacting FAB customer support for assistance.
Security Tips When Checking Your Balance
While balance inquiry is simple, it is important to protect your card information. Here are a few helpful reminders:
- Use only official FAB websites or apps
- Do not share your PIN, Card ID, or full card number with anyone
- Avoid checking balance on unsecured public networks
- Always verify SMS numbers before sending your details
- Contact customer support immediately if you notice unusual activity
A few small precautions go a long way in keeping your money safe.
Why NBAD Balance Inquiry Remains Popular in 2025
Even years after the merger, the term NBAD remains familiar. Workers still say NBAD salary card, employers still use NBAD card manuals, and people remember NBAD services as simple and reliable. For this reason, the search for NBAD balance inquiry continues to grow.
The good news is that the process has not become complicated. FAB has ensured that NBAD cardholders continue to enjoy straightforward access to their salary and card details, ensuring a smooth transition and long-term convenience.
Conclusion
Checking your NBAD balance is still easy in 2025, even though the bank is now known as FAB. Whether you prefer using the online portal, the mobile app, SMS, ATM, or phone banking, the process is straightforward and flexible. The key is choosing the method that suits your daily routine and comfort level.