The prepaid salary card “Ratibi” offered by First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) solves the problems of employees earning less than AED 5,000. The primary intended users of the Ratibi Card are those working under the informal sector and lacking a regular banking system. With services like simple salary payment automation and independent financial management, the card is a great fit for those without bank accounts. The WPS compliant features, international use, free fees, computational coverage, and many more features make the Ratibi cardio a game-changer in how businesses run payroll and employees receive their compensation.
Wondering if the Ratibi Card is the right fit for you? This guide will explain its features, benefits, and applications, making it easier for UAE expats and digital banking users to make an informed decision.
What is the Ratibi Card?
The Ratibi card is a fully equipped payroll card which does not require a bank account. It is convenient for employees who earn lower wages. After it is issued, employees simply have their salary deposited directly onto the card and can spend the funds through various means: ATMs, POS Terminals, and even online shopping.
This card is designed according to the requirements of the UAE’s Wages Protection System (WPS), allowing employers safer payment approaches through electronic wage transfer and simultaneously reducing the costs associated with cash transactions.
Key Features of the Ratibi Card
The Ratibi Card offers a wide array of features tailored for both employers and employees. Here are some notable highlights:
For Employees:
- No Bank Account Needed
Employees can receive and manage their salaries without setting up a bank account, saving time and costs on bank-related administrative processes.
- Fee-Free Transactions
No monthly charges or minimum balance requirements, ensuring employees retain the full value of their earnings.
- Global Accessibility
The card is accepted at all ATMs worldwide and stores linked to VISA or MasterCard networks, offering versatility for international use and online shopping.
- Financial Security
Enjoy peace of mind with free accident insurance covering up to AED 25,000 in case of permanent disability or death.
- Timely Notifications
Users receive free SMS updates on salary credits, keeping them informed about their account activity in real-time.
- No Carrying Cash Risks
The digital card reduces the risks associated with carrying physical cash, making it safer for employees.
For Employers:
- Streamlined Payroll Management
Employers can use Ratibi Cards to distribute salaries efficiently through a fully automated WPS system.
- Reduced Operational Costs
By going cashless, employers significantly cut down the costs of managing and transporting cash.
- Ease of Compliance
The Ratibi Card ensures adherence to UAE’s mandatory WPS guidelines, avoiding legal risks.
Benefits of Using the Ratibi Card
Here’s why the Ratibi Card is the preferred choice for salary management:
1. Simplifies Financial Inclusion
For employees without access to traditional banking, the Ratibi Card removes barriers to financial inclusion, empowering them to manage their salaries with ease.
2. Enhanced Security
With secure PIN generation and SMS alerts for every transaction, the Ratibi Card ensures complete control and safety over financial transfers and expenditures.
3. Fee-Free Salary Management
The absence of monthly or transaction fees makes the card cost-effective, particularly for employees with limited earnings.
4. Convenience on the Move
Globally accepted and integrated with VISA/MasterCard networks, the Ratibi Card provides seamless access to salary funds anytime, anywhere.
5. Improved Corporate Efficiency
For employers, the Ratibi system reduces payroll overheads, enhances corporate efficiency, and complies with UAE’s strict labor laws.
6. Personal Accident Coverage
Unlike many other prepaid cards, the Ratibi Card offers accident insurance, making it a valuable safety net for employees and their families.
How to Use a Ratibi Card
When your Ratibi Card is activated, you can:
- Check Your Balance: Log onto the Ratibi website or mobile app for a real-time account summary.
- Withdraw Cash: Use any compatible UAE ATM for fee-free cash withdrawals or ATMs worldwide linked to Visa/MasterCard networks.
- Shop Online or Offline: Make purchases at local retailers or on global e-commerce sites like Amazon.
- Access Salary Advances: Use the linked app or portal to access up to half of your salary as an advance.
- Send Money Internationally: Conduct global money transfers directly from your card account.
How to Apply for a Ratibi Card
Employers can initiate the application process for their employees using these simple steps:
- Fill out the Ratibi Application Form and update employee details in Excel format.
- Set up an online banking system integrated with FAB’s corporate banking platform.
- Submit the finalized application form at the nearest FAB branch.
Once approved, employees will receive their Ratibi cards, and employers can manage payroll functions online seamlessly.
Who Can Benefit from the Ratibi Card?
1. UAE-based Workers Earning ≤ AED 5,000
Employees working on modest incomes stand to gain the most, as they can manage their finances securely without added bank charges.
2. SME Employers in the UAE
Employers running small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will save time and effort on payroll services, freeing resources to focus on business growth.
3. Expats Seeking Quick Financial Solutions
UAE expats without local bank accounts can use the Ratibi Card for convenient monetary access, global transfers, and shopping.
How Does the Ratibi Card Compare to Competitors?
Ratibi Card vs. Alternatives:
- BankFAB Ratibi Card
Designed precisely for salaried employees, the FAB version provides accident insurance, SMS updates, WPS compliance, and salary advances, making it one of the most competitive cards available.
Learn more here (https://www.bankfab.com/v1/en-ae/personal/prepaid-cards/ratibi).
- Other Prepaid Options
Alternatives may lack certain features like accident insurance or global acceptance, but they might still offer basic ATM functionalities without the same seamless corporate integration.
Final Thoughts on the Ratibi Card’s Value
The Ratibi Card integrates financial security, global usability, and cost efficiency, delivering a reliable payroll solution for UAE’s lower-income employees. Whether you are an employer struggling with manual payroll processes or an employee seeking financial freedom without a bank account, the Ratibi Card has you covered.
Pick up your Ratibi Card today and unlock a smarter way of managing salaries while ensuring full WPS compliance and modernized cashless payroll technology.
Read Also: How to Check Your FAB Bank Balance Online in Seconds