Best Credit Cards UAE 2025: Complete Expat Guide
Introduction: Why Choose the Best Credit Cards UAE?
Living in the UAE as an expat comes with opportunities to maximize your finances. Choosing the right credit cards UAE can help you save money on everyday purchases, earn cashback, enjoy travel rewards, and even build your credit history. With so many banks and financial institutions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi offering different credit card products, finding the perfect match requires research and comparison.
This guide covers everything expats need to know about credit cards in UAE—from eligibility and benefits to fees and the best options in 2025.
Benefits of Using Credit Cards in UAE
Having a credit card in the UAE is more than just a convenience. The right card can unlock multiple financial advantages:
- Cashback on daily spending – groceries, fuel, dining.
- Travel perks – free airport lounge access, air miles, hotel discounts.
- No annual fee options – perfect for budget-conscious expats.
- Easy installment plans – spread payments for big-ticket purchases.
- Exclusive discounts – shopping, dining, and lifestyle offers across Dubai.
Eligibility Criteria for Credit Cards UAE
To apply for a credit card in the UAE, expats usually need to meet the following conditions:
- Minimum salary requirement: typically AED 5,000 – AED 15,000 depending on the bank.
- Age: 21 years or older.
- Employment proof: salary certificate or employment contract.
- Valid residence visa: UAE residency is often required, though some banks allow non-resident cards.
💡 Tip: Always check the minimum income requirement before applying.
Types of Credit Cards UAE
Expats can choose from different categories based on spending habits:
1. Cashback Credit Cards UAE
- Earn a percentage of your spending back as cash.
- Great for families and daily expenses.
2. Travel & Air Miles Credit Cards UAE
- Accumulate airline miles with every purchase.
- Enjoy free lounge access, priority check-in, and flight discounts.
3. Rewards & Lifestyle Credit Cards UAE
- Redeem points for shopping, dining, or entertainment.
- Often come with dining discounts and luxury offers.
4. No Annual Fee Credit Cards UAE
- Avoid paying yearly charges.
- Best for expats looking to save money while building credit history.
Best Banks Offering Credit Cards in UAE (2025)
Here’s a quick comparison of popular providers:
| Bank / Provider |
Popular Card |
Key Benefit |
Annual Fee |
Salary Requirement |
| Emirates NBD |
Go4it Gold |
Cashback & rewards |
AED 0 (first year) |
AED 5,000 |
| ADCB |
TouchPoints |
Travel rewards |
AED 500 |
AED 8,000 |
| FAB |
Cashback Card |
Up to 5% cashback |
AED 300 |
AED 7,000 |
| HSBC UAE |
Platinum Cashback |
International benefits |
AED 600 |
AED 10,000 |
| Mashreq Bank |
Platinum Elite |
Free airport lounge |
AED 350 |
AED 7,000 |
How to Apply for Credit Cards UAE
- Choose a card that fits your lifestyle (cashback, travel, rewards).
- Check eligibility requirements.
- Gather documents (passport, Emirates ID, salary certificate).
- Apply online via bank’s website or visit a branch.
- Wait for approval (usually within 3–5 working days).
💡 Many banks offer instant pre-approval online for expats.
Fees & Charges of Credit Cards in UAE
Before applying, understand the costs:
- Annual fee – ranges from AED 0 to AED 1,500 depending on perks.
- Interest rate – typically 2.5% to 3.5% per month.
- Late payment fee – up to AED 300.
- Cash withdrawal fee – 3% to 4% of amount withdrawn.
📌 Always pay your balance in full each month to avoid high interest charges.
Tips for Choosing the Best Credit Cards UAE
- Compare rewards vs. annual fees.
- Look for offers that match your lifestyle (travel, shopping, fuel).
- Avoid unnecessary add-ons that increase yearly costs.
- If you’re new to the UAE, start with a no annual fee card.
- Use comparison sites and financial advisors for updated offers.
FAQs — Credit Cards UAE
Which card gives 5% cashback?
Some
credit cards UAE offer up to
5% cashback in specific categories (e.g., groceries, fuel, online spend) and lower rates on other purchases.
- Check caps (monthly cashback limits) and eligible merchants.
- Confirm minimum spend and any annual fee.
Tip: compare multiple cards; the “5%” often applies only to promo categories.
Which credit card is free in the UAE?
Several banks advertise
no annual fee cards or waive the fee for the first year. Read the fee schedule:
- Look for “lifetime free” vs. “1st year free”.
- Watch for conditions (minimum annual spend or salary transfer).
Can I get a credit card with 4000 salary in Dubai?
Minimum salary requirements typically range from
AED 5,000–15,000. With AED 4,000 it’s unlikely, but you may qualify for:
- Prepaid or secured cards (deposit-backed).
- Entry-level products from select banks when bundled with payroll.
Always check each bank’s latest eligibility rules.
Is 650 a good credit score in the UAE?
The AECB score ranges from 300–900. A score of 650 is usually fair/average. Approval is possible but rates/limits may be less favorable.
How to get a 700 credit score from 650?
- Pay all bills and cards on time (100% and before the due date).
- Keep utilization under 30% (ideally 10–20%).
- Avoid multiple new applications in a short period.
- Maintain some positive history (don’t close your oldest card).
Improvements reflect in AECB updates over the next reporting cycles.
What is a good Etihad (AECB) credit score?
For the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (
AECB):
- 680–730: good
- 740–799: very good
- 800–900: excellent
Higher bands usually unlock better limits and lower charges for credit cards in UAE.
How rare is a 750 credit score?
A 750 is typically in the very good band and above average among consumers. While not “rare”, it places you in a favorable segment for approvals and premium products.
How much credit score is required for a credit card in the UAE?
Banks do not publish a fixed cutoff, but many approvals start around the 650–680+ range, alongside income/employment checks. Stronger scores help with limits and fees.
Is a 747 credit score good at 20?
Yes. Age is not part of the score; your profile (payments, utilization, history) is. A 747 is a very solid score for any age and supports card approvals if other criteria are met.
How rare is an 800 credit score?
Scores of 800+ are excellent and less common. They reflect long on-time payments, low utilization, and a stable credit mix. Expect the best terms on many credit cards UAE.
Is a 900 credit score possible?
Yes, the AECB scale tops at 900. It’s achievable but uncommon and requires impeccable history over time with minimal risk factors.
How to boost credit score?
- Set up auto-pay for at least the statement balance.
- Reduce utilization below 30% (lower is better).
- Keep accounts open to build longer history.
- Avoid unnecessary hard inquiries; space applications.
- Check your AECB report and dispute any errors.
Latest Articles – Find the Best Credit Cards UAE for Your Needs
With so many options, choosing the right credit cards UAE comes down to your lifestyle, spending habits, and financial goals. Whether you’re after cashback, rewards, or travel perks, the UAE has a card for every expat.
👉 Ready to find your perfect card? Compare the best credit cards in Dubai and UAE here and start saving today!
