Compare Credit Cards in United Arab Emirates
Live offers across tracked providers in United Arab Emirates — updated daily from the Giraffy database.
Live offers
- noon One Visa Credit Card
- U By Emaar Family Credit Card
- ADCB LuLu Platinum Credit Card
- ADCB LuLu Titanium Credit Card
- ADCB TouchPoints Titanium and Gold Credit Card
Introduction: Understanding Credit Cards in the UAE
Credit cards help you manage expenses, earn rewards, and enjoy special perks. UAE banks offer a wide range of options, from Sharia-compliant Islamic cards to premium travel and cashback options. Understanding how these cards work will help you choose the best fit.
What is a Credit Card?
A credit card lets you borrow money up to a limit and pay it back later. If you don’t pay the full balance by the due date, you’ll incur interest or profit charges. Key features include:
- Credit Limit: The maximum you can spend before paying down your balance.
- APR or Profit Rate: Interest or Sharia-compliant profit on unpaid balances.
- Grace Period: Pay on time to avoid interest.
- Rewards Programs: Earn points, miles, or cashback on purchases.
Top Credit Card Providers in the UAE
- Emirates NBD: A leading bank offering a variety of rewards and lifestyle cards.
- First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB): Known for travel and co-branded airline credit cards.
- Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB): Offers a wide range of cashback and rewards cards.
- Mashreq Bank: Provides innovative products including points-based and cashback cards.
- Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB): Sharia-compliant cards with profit rates instead of interest.
How to Apply for a Credit Card in the UAE
Requirements often include:
- Valid Emirates ID or residency visa
- Minimum age (21+)
- Proof of income
- Good credit history
Apply online or in-branch, submit required documents, and wait for approval.
Types of Credit Cards in the UAE
- Travel & Airline Miles Cards: Earn miles to redeem on flights and upgrades.
- Cashback Cards: Get a percentage back on your spending.
- Islamic Credit Cards: Follow Sharia principles with profit-sharing models instead of interest.
- Premium/Platinum Cards: Offer luxury perks like lounge access, concierge services, and insurance coverage.
Managing Your Credit Card Wisely
- Pay your full balance to avoid interest.
- Monitor your spending and set alerts.
- Use rewards strategically and redeem before they expire.
Security Tips
- Never share your PIN or card details.
- Shop on trusted websites.
- Report lost or stolen cards immediately.
Conclusion
Choosing the right credit card in the UAE can enhance your financial flexibility, reward your spending, and provide valuable perks. Compare features, read the fine print, and use your card responsibly.
FAQs
- What is the APR or profit rate?
The annual interest or profit charged if you carry a balance. - Can I use my UAE credit card abroad?
Yes, most UAE credit cards are accepted internationally. - What is an Islamic credit card?
A Sharia-compliant card using profit-sharing instead of interest. - How can I increase my credit limit?
Use your card responsibly and pay on time, then request a limit review after several months.
The cheapest Credit Cards in United Arab Emirates is AED 0 from Emirates NBD.
Credit Cards in United Arab Emirates — FAQ
What credit score do I need to get approved for a credit card in United Arab Emirates?
Minimum score requirements vary by card and issuer. In United Arab Emirates, scores are reported by the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB). Premium rewards and travel cards typically require a good-to-excellent score, while secured or entry-level cards are available with lower or no credit history. Checking eligibility with a soft search won't affect your score.
Which credit card in United Arab Emirates has no foreign transaction fee?
Giraffy tracks 5 credit cards across Emirates NBD,Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank banks in United Arab Emirates. Use the 'No Foreign Fees' filter on the card detail to find cards that don't charge for overseas spending — useful if you travel or shop in foreign currencies online.
How do balance transfers work, and are they worth it?
A balance transfer moves your existing credit card debt to a new card, often at 0% interest for an introductory period. You typically pay a one-off transfer fee (1–3%). If you can repay the balance before the 0% period ends, you save on interest — check the revert rate carefully.
What is a rewards or cashback credit card?
Rewards cards earn points, miles, or cashback on every purchase. Cashback is the simplest — a percentage of spending returned as cash. Points and miles can be worth more if redeemed for flights or hotels, but require more active management. Annual fees are often offset if you spend above a certain threshold.
Can I get a credit card with no annual fee?
Yes — several cards tracked by Giraffy in United Arab Emirates charge no annual fee. They typically offer fewer perks than premium cards, but are the most cost-effective choice if you pay your balance in full each month and want a card purely for convenience or building credit history.
How does credit card interest work?
If you pay your full statement balance by the due date each month, you pay zero interest. Interest only applies to carried balances, cash advances, or missed payments. The representative APR shown on each card covers all standard purchase interest — compare APRs when choosing a card you might not always pay off in full.
What is the difference between a credit limit and an available balance?
Your credit limit is the maximum you're allowed to borrow at any time. Your available balance is what's left after deducting current transactions. Staying well below your limit — ideally under 30% — helps maintain a healthy credit utilisation ratio, which is a key factor in your credit score.