INTRODUCTION
Getting a credit card in Dubai can be a game-changer for managing expenses, earning rewards, and improving your financial flexibility. However, with strict banking regulations and eligibility requirements, many applicants struggle with credit card approval in the UAE.
If youβre planning to apply for a credit card in Dubai, this guide will help you understand the process, meet the eligibility criteria, and maximize your chances of approval.
1. Maintain a Good Credit Score
Your credit score is one of the most crucial factors in getting a credit card in Dubai. Banks assess your creditworthiness using the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) credit report before approving your application.
How to Improve Your Credit Score:
β Pay Bills on Time: Ensure all your loan EMIs, credit card bills, and utility bills are paid before the due date.
β Limit Your Credit Utilization: Keep your credit usage below 30% of your total limit to show responsible spending habits.
β Avoid Multiple Loan Applications: Too many credit inquiries can lower your score. Apply for a credit card only when necessary.
β Check Your Credit Report Regularly: Request your credit report from AECB to ensure there are no errors.
A credit score of 700+ significantly increases your chances of getting a high-limit credit card in Dubai with better perks. If your score is low, work on improving it before applying.
2. Meet the Minimum Salary Requirement
Each bank in Dubai has different minimum salary requirements for credit cards. If your salary does not meet the criteria, your application may be rejected.
Minimum Salary Requirements for Credit Cards in Dubai:
AED 5,000+ β Basic credit cards with limited benefits
AED 8,000 β AED 15,000 β Mid-range credit cards with decent perks
AED 20,000+ β Premium credit cards with high limits and luxury rewards
Salary Requirements for Popular Banks in Dubai:
Emirates NBD Credit Card β AED 5,000 to AED 25,000+ (varies by card type)
CBD Credit Card β AED 8,000+
ADCB Credit Card β AED 5,000 to AED 30,000
FAB Credit Card β AED 7,000 to AED 20,000
HSBC Credit Card β AED 10,000+
If your salary is on the lower side, look for zero annual fee credit cards or cards that do not require a salary transfer.
3. Choose the Right Credit Card
Dubai banks offer different types of credit cards, each designed for specific financial needs. Choosing the right card increases your chances of approval.
Types of Credit Cards in Dubai:
β Cashback Credit Cards β Earn cashback on fuel, dining, shopping, and more. (Example: Emirates NBD LuLu 247 Card)
β Rewards Credit Cards β Earn points for every purchase and redeem them for discounts or travel. (Example: ADCB TouchPoints Card)
β Travel Credit Cards β Get free airport lounge access, travel insurance, and discounts on flights. (Example: FAB Infinite Travel Card)
β Low-Interest Credit Cards β Best for those who carry a balance and want lower interest rates. (Example: HSBC Low-Rate Credit Card)
β Premium Credit Cards β High-limit cards with luxury perks like VIP services and concierge benefits. (Example: CBD Elite Card)
Tip: If your salary is AED 5,000, do not apply for a card that requires AED 20,000+. Choose a card that fits your income level to increase approval chances.
4. Submit Complete and Correct Documents
One of the most common reasons for credit card rejection in Dubai is missing or incorrect documentation. Before applying, make sure you have all the necessary papers.
Documents Required for a Credit Card in Dubai:
π Valid Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
π Passport copy (for expatriates)
π Residence visa (for non-UAE nationals)
π Salary certificate (issued by your employer)
π Bank statements (last 3 to 6 months)
π Trade license (if self-employed)
Submitting accurate and complete documents will speed up the approval process and reduce the chances of rejection.
5. Apply With a Bank Where You Have an Account
If you already have a salary account or savings account in a UAE bank, applying for a credit card from the same bank increases your chances of approval.
Why?
β The bank already has your financial history, making approval easier.
β You may receive pre-approved credit card offers.
β No need for additional paperwork or salary verification.
For example, if your salary is deposited into Emirates NBD, applying for an Emirates NBD credit card will likely result in faster approval.
6. Avoid Multiple Applications at Once
Many people make the mistake of applying for multiple credit cards at the same time. However, this can hurt your credit score and decrease your chances of approval.
What Should You Do Instead?
β Research the best credit cards in Dubai and apply for only one that matches your profile.
β Wait at least 3 to 6 months before applying for another card if rejected.
β If rejected, check the reason and improve your financial standing before reapplying.
Being selective and patient increases your approval chances while maintaining a strong credit score.
7. Show Additional Income Sources
If your salary is low, you can improve your creditworthiness by showing additional sources of income.
Examples of Additional Income:
π° Side Business or Freelancing Income (must have proof of earnings)
π‘ Rental Income (if you own property)
π Investments & Dividends (stocks, mutual funds, etc.)
π Part-Time Jobs (such as Uber, Careem, etc.)
Providing additional proof of income reassures banks that you can repay your credit card bills on time, improving approval chances.
FAQs β How to Get Credit Card Approval in Dubai
1. What is the minimum salary required to obtain a credit card in Dubai?
Most banks require a minimum salary of AED 5,000 for basic credit cards. However, premium cards may require a salary of AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 or more.
2. Can I obtain a credit card in Dubai without a salary transfer?
Yes, some banks offer credit cards without salary transfer, but they often come with higher fees and stricter approval terms.
3. How long does it take to get a credit card in Dubai?
The approval process typically takes 3 to 7 working days, depending on your documents and credit score. Some banks provide instant approval for pre-approved clients.
4. Can I obtain a credit card in Dubai with a bad credit score?
It is difficult, but possible. If your credit score is below 650, you can improve it by:
Paying bills on time
Reducing credit utilization (keeping it below 30%)
Avoiding multiple credit applications in a short period
5. Which banks offer the best credit cards in Dubai?
Some of the best banks offering credit cards in Dubai include:
Emirates NBD
ADCB (Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank)
FAB (First Abu Dhabi Bank)
HSBC UAE
CBD (Commercial Bank of Dubai)
6. What are the best cashback credit cards in the UAE?
Here are some of the top cashback credit cards in Dubai:
Emirates NBD LuLu 247 Card β Cashback on groceries and fuel
Mashreq Cashback Credit Card β 5% cashback on dining
FAB Cashback Card β Up to 5% cashback on spending
7. Can I have more than one credit card in Dubai?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria, you can hold multiple credit cards. However, having too many credit cards can lower your credit score and increase financial risks.
8. Can self-employed individuals get a credit card in Dubai?
Yes, self-employed individuals can apply for a credit card by providing:
Trade license
Bank statements (last 6 months)
Proof of additional income
9. What should I do if my credit card application is denied?
If your credit card application is rejected, follow these steps:
Check your credit report for any errors
Wait 3 to 6 months before reapplying
Improve your credit score by paying bills on time
Choose a card that matches your salary range
10. Are there any hidden charges on credit cards in Dubai?
Yes, some banks charge:
Annual fees
Late payment fees
Foreign transaction fees
Always read the terms and conditions carefully before applying for a credit card.
Final Thoughts β How to Get Credit Card Approval in Dubai
Getting a credit card in Dubai is easy if you have the proper financial and documentation requirements. Nevertheless, most applicants are rejected because of low credit scores, improper document submission, or applying for cards that are out of their salary range.
In order to secure approval, work on having a good credit history, choosing the right credit card according to your income, and making sure that you submit all required documents. Another tip would be to pick a bank you already have an account with because this will help to make approval easier.
One of the most common errors that people commit is applying for several credit cards simultaneously. Not only does this decrease your chances of approval, but it also hurts your credit score. Instead, take your time to research the top credit cards in Dubai, according to your needs, and apply strategically.
If you are self-employed, make sure you possess the necessary financial documents, including a trade license and bank statements, to present along with your application. For low-salary earners, opt for no salary transfer credit cards or work towards diversifying your income streams to enhance your chances.
Dubai banks have a range of credit card choices, including rewards, travel, and cashback credit cards. Compare benefits, interest charges, and fees before applying to get the appropriate card for your purpose.
Following the tips and advice in this guide, you will be able to increase your credit card approval chances in Dubai and experience the freedom of financial empowerment that responsible use of a credit card can provide.
If youβre looking for more guidance on credit cards, loans, and investments in Dubai, check out our other in-depth guides below!
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