Best Guide to UAE Credit Cards: Features, Benefits, and Requirements

I. Introduction: Navigating the UAE Credit Card Landscape

A. Purpose of This Advisory Report

This report serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals and businesses seeking to understand and choose the right credit card in the United Arab Emirates. It aims to demystify the diverse offerings from major banks, detailing their features, benefits, fees, and application requirements. The objective is to provide a clear and actionable overview to facilitate informed financial decisions within the dynamic UAE credit card market.

B. Understanding the Credit Card Market in the UAE

The UAE boasts a dynamic and competitive banking sector, featuring a mix of prominent local and international financial institutions. These banks offer a wide array of financial products, including credit cards, which are tailored to various consumer needs. The diversity of offerings ranges from cashback incentives and rewards programs to Sharia-compliant options and premium lifestyle benefits.

The extensive number of banks and the variety of credit card categories available in the UAE point to a sophisticated financial market. This market maturity presents consumers with a high degree of choice, but it also introduces the challenge of navigating complex options to identify the most suitable product. Consequently, detailed, comparative information becomes essential to empower consumers, as the market is far from a one-size-fits-all environment.

C. Key Regulatory Framework from the Central Bank of UAE

The Central Bank of UAE (CBUAE) plays a pivotal role in regulating the financial sector and safeguarding consumer interests. Key regulations established by the CBUAE significantly shape credit card issuance and usage:

• Minimum Income for Credit Card Issuance: Banks are mandated to issue credit cards to individuals whose annual income is AED 60,000 or more. This threshold ensures that credit is extended to individuals with a demonstrated capacity for repayment.
• Pledged Deposit Alternative: For applicants who do not meet the stipulated income criteria, a credit card may still be issued against a pledged deposit of not less than AED 60,000. This alternative mechanism allows for broader access to credit while maintaining a level of financial security for the issuing bank.
• Repayment Limits: To prevent over-indebtedness, the CBUAE stipulates that credit card outstanding repayments must not exceed 50% of the cardholder's gross salary and any other regular income. This limit is a critical measure designed to promote responsible borrowing.
• Consumer Protection Framework: The CBUAE's comprehensive framework emphasizes responsible market conduct, prohibiting abusive sales, marketing, and pricing practices. It promotes transparency and ensures timely disclosure of information to consumers, enabling them to make informed decisions. A "Cooling-off Period" is also mandated, allowing consumers a period to reconsider a product purchase and withdraw from a contract without undue costs.
• Arrears Provisions: Banks are required to make specific provisions for credit card balances that are in arrears. A provision of 25% of the outstanding loan balance is required if the balance is due for 90 days, increasing to 50% for 120 days in arrears. A full provision of 100% is required if the balance in arrears exceeds 180 days, or if it becomes unfeasible to reach a settlement with the client, particularly if the client has left the country without leaving assets to cover the debt.

The CBUAE's regulations on minimum income or pledged deposits and the 50% repayment limit are direct measures to prevent individuals from becoming over-indebted. The detailed provisioning requirements for arrears indicate a proactive approach to managing credit risk within the banking system. These regulations serve as a foundational layer of consumer protection, ensuring that credit is extended responsibly and that individuals are not burdened with unmanageable debt.

This regulatory environment directly influences the eligibility criteria set by individual banks and underscores the importance of financial discipline for consumers in the UAE, as non-compliance can have significant consequences.

II. Essential Considerations Before Choosing a Credit Card

A. Assessing Financial Profile and Spending Habits

Before applying for a credit card, individuals should critically evaluate their monthly income, typical spending patterns (e.g., travel, dining, groceries, online shopping), and overarching financial goals (e.g., earning cashback, collecting air miles, building credit). This personal financial assessment is crucial for guiding the selection process toward a card that truly maximizes benefits and minimizes costs for a specific lifestyle.

B. Decoding Credit Card Features: What Matters Most

Credit cards offer a myriad of features, and understanding these is key to making an informed decision:

• Rewards Programs: These include cashback, where a percentage of spending is returned to the cardholder; Air Miles, which can be redeemed for flights and travel-related benefits; or points, which offer flexibility for redemption across various categories.
• Annual Fees: While some cards are advertised as "Free for Life", many others carry annual fees that may be waived if specific spending thresholds are met.
• Interest Rates (APR/Monthly Profit Rate): This represents the cost of carrying a balance. Monthly rates generally range from 3.09% to 3.85%. The consistently high monthly interest rates and corresponding Annual Percentage Rates (APRs), often exceeding 40% annually, indicate that banks heavily rely on interest income from revolving balances. This structure means that credit cards are designed to be profitable for banks when users carry balances. For consumers, this underscores the critical importance of paying off the full statement balance every month to avoid significant costs that can easily outweigh any rewards earned.
• Balance Transfer Offers: These promotions allow cardholders to transfer outstanding balances from other credit cards, often at 0% interest for a promotional period, to consolidate debt.
• Travel Benefits: Common travel perks include complimentary airport lounge access, airport transfers, and comprehensive travel insurance.
• Lifestyle Perks: Many cards offer discounts on cinema tickets, dining experiences, golf privileges, and valet parking services.
• Islamic Finance/Sharia Compliant: Several banks offer cards that adhere to Islamic financial principles, often using terms like "profit rate" instead of "interest rate" and "covered card". This caters to a specific demographic seeking ethical financial solutions.

Many cards are advertised as "Free for Life," often with lower minimum salary requirements. However, some of the most lucrative rewards cards typically come with significant annual fees. This highlights a common financial product strategy: consumers often pay for premium benefits, either directly through annual fees or indirectly through higher spending requirements to waive fees. The "free" cards generally offer more basic benefits or lower reward rates.

C. General Eligibility Criteria and Required Documents

Common eligibility criteria across UAE banks generally include:

• Age: Applicants are typically required to be at least 21 years of age. Some banks may specify an upper age limit, such as 63-65 years at the time of card issuance or expiry.
• Residency: Applicants must generally be UAE residents or UAE nationals.
• Minimum Monthly Income: This varies significantly based on the card tier and the issuing bank, ranging from as low as AED 5,000 for basic cards to AED 50,000 or more for premium offerings. Self-employed individuals may have different income or turnover requirements, or they may need to provide a pledged deposit.
• Credit Score: A "good" credit score, typically categorized as above 580 by the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB), is often a prerequisite.
• Banking Relationship: Some banks may require a cordial or established relationship with the applicant's current bank.

Standard required documents for credit card applications typically include:

• Emirates ID (original and copy)
• Passport copies (original and copy)
• Residence Visa copy (for non-GCC nationals)
• Latest Salary Certificate (not more than 30 days old) or Salary Slip
• Bank Statements (last 3-6 months)
• Proof of UAE Residency (e.g., tenancy agreement, EJARI, utility bill)
• Trade License (for self-employed individuals)
• A security cheque may be required.

The following table provides a consolidated overview of common eligibility requirements and the typical documents needed for a credit card application in the UAE. This quick reference can help prospective applicants assess their basic eligibility and prepare the necessary paperwork efficiently.

III. In-Depth Analysis of Credit Cards by Major UAE Banks

This section provides a detailed analysis of credit card offerings from major banks in the UAE, focusing on representative cards, their features, fees, rewards, and eligibility criteria. It is important to note that specific details, particularly interest rates and comprehensive document lists, may require direct consultation with the respective banks due to dynamic product offerings and disclosure practices.

IV. Credit Cards for Low Income (AED 8,000 or less)

For individuals with a monthly income of AED 8,000 or less, several banks in the UAE offer accessible credit card options. These cards often focus on essential benefits like cashback, basic rewards, and lower annual fees (or no fees at all), making them suitable for managing everyday expenses and building credit responsibly.

V. "Free for Life" and Low Annual Fee Credit Cards

"Free for Life" and low annual fee credit cards appeal to consumers who desire the convenience and benefits of a credit card without the burden of recurring annual charges. While many cards are advertised as "Free for Life," it is crucial to understand that some of these offers come with conditional waivers. Consumers must meticulously review the terms and conditions to avoid unexpected charges.

VI. Comparative Overview of Popular Credit Card Categories

A. Top Cashback Credit Cards in the UAE

Cashback credit cards are highly popular in the UAE for their direct benefit: returning a percentage of spending back to the cardholder, effectively reducing the cost of purchases. The rates and caps for cashback vary significantly across different cards and spending categories.

Banks are not offering flat cashback rates; instead, they are categorizing spending (e.g., groceries, dining, fuel, utilities, online shopping, international) and applying different cashback percentages. This allows banks to incentivize spending in specific high-volume or strategic areas. For the consumer, this means optimizing cashback requires careful analysis of their actual spending habits. A card with a high rate in one category might be less rewarding if that is not where the majority of their spending occurs. This also suggests that banks are increasingly using data to understand consumer behavior and tailor rewards accordingly.

Key cashback cards and their offers include:

• Citibank Citi Cashback Card: Offers 3% cashback on international spends, 2% on grocery spends, and 1% on other expenditures.
• Commercial Bank of Dubai Super Saver Credit Card: Provides tiered cashback: 3% on bills, supermarket, and transport for monthly spends between AED 3,000 and AED 9,999.99; 5% for AED 10,000-19,999.99; and 10% for monthly spends above AED 20,000.
• First Abu Dhabi Bank Cashback Card: Offers up to AED 600 monthly cashback, with specific rates such as up to 10% on hotel bookings, 5% on supermarket purchases, 3% on dining and school fees, 1% on international spending, and 0.15% on other spends.
• Emirates Islamic RTA Card: Provides up to 10% cashback on RTA transport payments and fuel spends, up to 2.25% on international spends, and up to 1.25% on other shopping and spends.
• RAKBANK World Mastercard Credit Card: Offers up to 10% cashback on supermarket and travel, up to 5% on international spending, and up to 3% on domestic spending.
• ADIB Visa Cashback Card: Provides 4% cashback on grocery, supermarket, fuel, automobile, school, education, dining, restaurants, and utility payments, capped at AED 1,000 total monthly cashback.
• Mashreq noon Credit Card: Offers 5% cashback within the noon ecosystem (noon, noon Food, noon Minutes, noon supermall, NowNow, Sivvi, Namshi), 1% on other purchases, and 0.33% on government, utilities, education, charity, fuel, rental, and telecom payments.
• HSBC Cash+ Credit Card: Provides 1% daily cashback on all eligible purchases, with an additional 10% bonus cashback throughout the year if minimum spend criteria are met.

The following table offers a comparative overview of key cashback credit cards available in the UAE, highlighting their primary cashback features, minimum salary requirements, and annual fees. This comparison assists in identifying cards that align best with individual spending profiles.

*Note: Annual fees marked with an asterisk (*) may be waived based on specific spending criteria.

B. Leading Rewards & Air Miles Credit Cards

Rewards cards, particularly those that offer air miles or points convertible to travel, are highly sought after by frequent travelers and those who prioritize loyalty benefits.

A significant number of rewards cards are co-branded with airlines (e.g., Emirates Skywards, Etihad Guest) or major loyalty programs (e.g., FAB SHARE, Dnata, LuLu, Smiles). This indicates a strong partnership strategy between banks and loyalty programs. This synergy benefits consumers who are already loyal to these programs, allowing them to accelerate their points or miles accumulation. It also means that choosing a rewards card is often about selecting the loyalty program that best fits one's travel or shopping preferences.

Key rewards and air miles cards and their offers include:

• FAB Manchester City Titanium Card: Offers up to 2.5 FAB Rewards for every AED spent, along with a 20% discount on Careem rides.
• Emirates NBD Dnata World Credit Card: Provides travel vouchers up to AED 2,500 as a welcome bonus and tiered Dnata points on purchases at Dnata, Costa Coffee, Giraffe, and other partners.
• Liv. Platinum Credit Card: Offers a 10% discount on Cleartrip flight bookings and Hotels.com, plus up to 15% cashback or up to 1 Skywards Mile for every AED 1 spent.
• Dubai First Cashback Card: Provides up to 5% cashback on spending at supermarkets, dining, and fuel, with up to 3% on international spending.
• FAB Etihad Guest Platinum/Signature: Offers Etihad Guest Miles with tiered earning rates and bonus vouchers.
• Emirates Islamic Etihad Guest Premium/Saqer/Ameera/Platinum Credit Cards: Provides Etihad Miles, welcome bonuses, and various travel benefits.
• Emirates NBD Skywards Infinite Credit Card: Earns Skywards Miles on spending, with accelerated rates for Emirates, Duty-Free, and international transactions.
• Emirates Islamic Skywards Black/Infinite/Signature Cards: Offers Skywards Miles with tiered earning rates, welcome bonuses, and fast-track to Emirates Skywards elite status.
• HSBC Emirates Skywards Infinite/Signature Cards: Provide Skywards Miles with tiered earning, sign-up and welcome spend bonuses, and complimentary Emirates Skywards elite status.
• Citibank Citi Premier/Prestige/Ultima/Rewards: Earns Citi Miles or ThankYou® Points that can be transferred to partner airlines or redeemed for cash rebates.

The following table provides a comparative overview of selected leading rewards and air miles credit cards in the UAE, detailing their primary reward type, earning rates, welcome bonuses, and key benefits. This comparison assists individuals in choosing a card that aligns with their travel and loyalty program preferences.

C. Specialized Credit Cards

Beyond general cashback and rewards, the UAE market features numerous specialized credit cards designed with niche benefits tailored to specific consumer segments. The proliferation of cards tied to specific brands (e.g., Talabat, Noon, Carrefour, GEMS, Manchester City, FC Barcelona, Kalyan Jewellers) indicates a shift from broad rewards to highly targeted benefits. This allows banks to capture specific consumer segments with strong brand loyalties.

For the consumer, this means that the "best" card is not just about general benefits, but about how well it integrates with their specific consumption patterns and brand preferences, encouraging a more tailored approach to credit card selection.

Examples of specialized cards include:

• Travel-Focused Cards: These cards are designed for frequent travelers and often offer extensive benefits. Examples include the HSBC Emirates Skywards cards, FAB Travel Card, Emirates NBD Dnata World, ADCB Etihad Guest cards, RAKBANK Emirates Skywards, Emirates Islamic Skywards/Etihad Guest cards, and Citibank Premier/Prestige/Ultima cards. Common features include airport lounge access, comprehensive travel insurance, complimentary airport transfers, and accelerated airline miles earning.
• Lifestyle-Oriented Cards: These cards cater to specific lifestyle preferences, often offering discounts or rewards on particular services or entertainment. Examples include the ADCB Talabat card, FAB GEMS card, Mashreq noon card, CBD Smiles cards, Deem Finance Deem Platinum Mastercard, and RAKBANK FC Barcelona Platinum Credit Card. Benefits frequently include discounts on specific apps, cinemas, entertainment venues, or co-branded loyalty programs.
• Sharia-Compliant Cards: A significant segment of the UAE market is served by Sharia-compliant credit cards, which adhere to Islamic finance principles. These cards often use terms like "profit rate" instead of "interest rate" and are referred to as "covered cards." Prominent providers include Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), Standard Chartered Smart Saadiq, and Emirates Islamic cards. CBD also offers Islamic banking products. These cards cater to consumers seeking financial products aligned with their religious or ethical values.

VII. Understanding Credit Card Fees and Charges

A. Annual Membership Fees: What to Expect and How to Waive

Annual membership fees for credit cards in the UAE vary widely, ranging from AED 0 for "Free for Life" cards to over AED 5,000 for premium offerings.

Many cards offer first-year fee waivers or conditional waivers for subsequent years based on a minimum annual spending threshold. For example, the DIB SHAMS Platinum Covered Card requires an AED 15,000 annual spend for fee waiver, while Citibank Rewards, Cash Back, and Ready Credit cards require AED 9,000. The HSBC Cash+ card and CBD Smiles Signature card may waive fees with an AED 24,000 annual spend, and the CBD Visa Infinite requires over AED 100,000. This distinction between truly fee-free cards and those with conditional waivers is crucial.

If the user fails to meet the specified spending requirement, the annual fee will be applied, potentially making a seemingly "free" card quite expensive. This emphasizes the critical need for consumers to carefully review the terms and conditions beyond headline offers.

B. Interest Rates (APR and Monthly Profit Rates): The Cost of Credit

Monthly interest rates for credit cards in the UAE typically range from 2.99% to 3.85%. Annual Percentage Rates (APR) can be as high as 48.07% for some Emirates NBD cards or 44.28% for HSBC cards.

Interest is generally charged on the daily outstanding balance if the full payment is not made by the due date. Most cards offer an interest-free period (often referred to as a grace period) of up to 55 days for retail purchases, provided the total outstanding balance is paid in full by the due date. However, cash advances typically incur interest from the transaction date itself.

The consistently high monthly interest rates and corresponding APRs, often exceeding 40% annually, indicate that banks heavily rely on interest income from revolving balances. This is particularly relevant given that many cards offer fee waivers. This structure means that credit cards are designed to be profitable for banks when users carry balances. For consumers, this underscores the critical importance of paying off the full statement balance every month to avoid significant costs that can easily outweigh any rewards earned. The "interest-free period" is a key benefit only if utilized correctly.

C. Other Common Fees: Cash Advance, Late Payment, Over-Limit, Foreign Transaction

Beyond annual fees and interest, several other charges can impact the overall cost of a credit card:

• Cash Advance Fee: This fee is typically a percentage of the cash advance amount or a minimum flat fee. Examples include AED 99 for ADIB, AED 99 for Emirates Islamic, AED 99 for RAKBANK, AED 103.95 for Emirates NBD, and AED 210 for Mashreq.
• Late Payment Fee: Charged when the minimum payment is not received by the due date. These fees range from AED 50 (Emirates NBD) to AED 303.45 (Mashreq), AED 225 (Emirates Islamic), AED 230 (RAKBANK), AED 209 (CBD), and AED 100 (ADIB).
• Over-Limit Fee: Applied if the outstanding balance exceeds the assigned credit limit at any point during the billing cycle. These fees can range from AED 209 (CBD) to AED 303.45 (Mashreq), AED 249 (Emirates Islamic), AED 275 (RAKBANK), and AED 292.95 (Emirates NBD).
• Foreign Currency Transaction Fee: Typically ranges from 1.99% to 2.89%. This fee is usually charged in addition to the standard processing fees levied by card networks like Visa or MasterCard (approximately 1.15%). This fee applies even if an overseas transaction is settled in UAE Dirhams (Dynamic Currency Conversion), as the conversion is handled by the overseas merchant, not the bank.

The significant and varied fees for late payments, over-limit transactions, and cash advances serve as strong deterrents against irresponsible credit behavior. However, they also represent a substantial revenue stream for banks when such behaviors occur. This reinforces the advisory message that while credit cards offer convenience and rewards, mismanaging them can quickly lead to accumulating substantial charges, thereby undermining any perceived benefits. The high foreign transaction fees also highlight a hidden cost for international travelers.

VIII. The Application Process and Responsible Credit Card Management

A. Step-by-Step Application Guide

Applying for a credit card in the UAE involves several key steps:

• Compare Cards: Prospective applicants should thoroughly research and compare different credit cards to identify one that aligns with their needs, carefully considering the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) and associated fees.
• Check Credit Score: Before applying, it is advisable to check one's credit score, which is calculated by the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) and ranges from 300 to 900. A higher score indicates better creditworthiness and is a key factor lenders review.
• Check Eligibility: Applicants must ensure they meet the specific eligibility criteria for the desired credit card, including minimum age and income requirements.
• Complete Application: The application form can typically be filled out online, over the phone, or at a bank branch. During this step, all required identity and income proofs must be provided.
• Review Offer: If the application is approved, the lender will typically provide an offer for review. It is crucial to carefully examine the APR, all fees, payment due dates, benefits, and the minimum monthly payment requirements.

The advice to "compare different credit cards" and "check your credit score" *before* applying suggests a proactive approach to credit management. It also highlights that submitting multiple applications in a short period can negatively impact a credit score. This emphasizes that credit card application is not merely a transaction but a strategic financial decision that impacts one's overall financial health and future borrowing capacity.

B. The Importance of Your Credit Score (Al Etihad Credit Bureau)

The Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) plays a central role in the UAE's financial ecosystem by calculating individual credit scores, which range from 300 to 900. Banks and other lenders utilize this score to assess an applicant's financial behavior and creditworthiness. Consistently making repayments on time and staying within assigned credit limits contribute positively to one's credit score, thereby increasing the likelihood of approval for loans and other financial products.

Conversely, late payments can significantly damage a credit score, with negative marks potentially remaining on the credit report for up to five years. The AECB credit score acts as a central determinant for financial access in the UAE, influencing not just credit cards but also loans, mortgages, and even rental contracts. Its long-term impact underscores its significance as a "financial passport" in the UAE. Maintaining a good credit score is fundamental to broader financial well-being and access to financial services in the country.

C. Legal Implications of Credit Card Default in the UAE

Credit card default is treated with significant gravity in the UAE, carrying severe legal ramifications.

• Initial Penalties: Upon missing a payment deadline, initial consequences include the imposition of late fees, typically ranging from AED 150 to AED 500, and an increase in the interest rate to a penalty APR.
• Collection Agencies: If an account remains overdue for an extended period, the debt may be assigned to third-party collection agencies.
• Security Cheque: Borrowers are typically required to sign a blank security cheque when obtaining a credit card. If this cheque bounces due to insufficient funds, it constitutes a criminal offense under UAE law, which can lead to a police case being filed against the individual.
• Legal Consequences: The legal implications of credit card default can be severe, potentially resulting in heavy fines, jail sentences, travel bans, seizure of assets or properties, and frozen bank accounts.
• Civil Case: In addition to criminal proceedings, banks may file a civil case for the recovery of outstanding debts through the UAE court system.
• Impact on Employment and Travel: A poor credit report can negatively affect employment prospects, particularly in sectors requiring security clearance or financial integrity. Furthermore, in severe cases, a court decision can lead to a travel ban, preventing the individual from leaving the UAE until the debt is settled.

The detailed description of legal consequences for credit card default, particularly the criminal implications of a bounced security cheque, serves as a stark warning. This highlights the robust and stringent legal framework in the UAE concerning financial obligations. It underscores the absolute necessity for consumers to prioritize credit card repayments and to proactively seek solutions, such as negotiation or settlement agreements, if they face financial difficulty, rather than defaulting on their obligations.

D. Best Practices for Responsible Credit Card Use

To maximize the benefits of a credit card and avoid potential pitfalls, responsible usage is paramount:

• Pay Full Balance: Always endeavor to pay the full statement balance by the due date to avoid incurring any interest charges and late payment fees.
• Stay Within Limit: Maintain spending within the assigned credit limit to prevent over-limit fees and negative impacts on the credit score.
• Monitor Statements: Regularly review monthly statements for accuracy and to track spending patterns.
• Understand Fees: Be aware of all potential fees, including cash advance fees, foreign transaction fees, and any charges for supplementary cards.
• Utilize Rewards: Actively redeem accumulated cashback, miles, or points to gain tangible value from the card's reward program.
• Avoid Cash Advances: Cash advances are typically expensive, incurring immediate interest and high fees; they should be avoided unless absolutely necessary for emergencies.
• Review Terms: Periodically review the card's terms and conditions, as banks may update fees, interest rates, or reward structures.

IX. Conclusion

The UAE credit card market is characterized by its diversity and sophistication, offering a wide array of products tailored to various consumer needs, from daily cashback to premium travel benefits and Sharia-compliant options. This comprehensive landscape provides significant choice but also necessitates careful consideration and informed decision-making from consumers.

A critical observation is the prevalence of cards advertised as "Free for Life," which often come with conditional waivers tied to annual spending thresholds. Consumers must meticulously examine these terms, as failing to meet such conditions can result in unexpected annual fees. Furthermore, the consistently high monthly interest rates charged by banks underscore the paramount importance of paying off the full statement balance by the due date. The high APRs indicate that interest income is a significant revenue driver for banks, and carrying a balance can quickly negate any rewards earned.

The regulatory environment in the UAE, particularly the Central Bank's stipulations on minimum income, repayment limits, and stringent provisions for arrears, aims to promote responsible lending and protect consumers from over-indebtedness. However, the severe legal implications of credit card default, including criminal charges for bounced security cheques, highlight the critical need for financial discipline and proactive debt management.

For individuals seeking a credit card in the UAE, the following recommendations are paramount:

1. Self-Assessment is Key: Begin by thoroughly assessing personal income, spending habits, and financial goals. This foundational step will guide the selection of a card that genuinely aligns with individual needs, whether it's maximizing cashback on groceries, accumulating air miles for travel, or adhering to Sharia-compliant principles.
2. Scrutinize All Fees and Rates: Do not rely solely on headline offers. Carefully review the annual fees, understanding any waiver conditions, and be fully aware of the monthly interest rates (or profit rates for Islamic cards) and other charges like cash advance, late payment, and foreign transaction fees.
3. Prioritize Full Repayment: To avoid substantial interest charges and maintain a healthy financial standing, always aim to pay the entire outstanding balance by the due date. This practice ensures that the credit card remains a tool for convenience and rewards, rather than a source of accumulating debt.
4. Understand Credit Score Impact: Recognize the critical role of the Al Etihad Credit Bureau score. Responsible credit card use directly contributes to a strong credit history, which is vital for accessing future financial services in the UAE.
5. Be Aware of Legal Obligations: Understand the serious legal consequences of credit card default in the UAE. In instances of financial difficulty, engage with the bank promptly to explore repayment solutions rather than allowing the debt to escalate.

X. Frequently Asked Questions