Scan me
Download Pyypl

Scan the code and download the app

Close icon
Pyypl logo
Pyypl Team
Apr 24
/
5 mins

How to Get a Credit Card in the UAE

Securing a Credit Card: What You Need to Know

One hand holding a phone while paying with the phone
hamburger button
Summary

In the fast-paced life of today, cashless transactions have greatly simplified matters, with credit cards becoming a fundamental part of our financial lives. You've likely observed your parents, relatives, and friends leveraging their benefits, using them for both brick-and-mortar and online purchases. Now, you're excited about the prospect of acquiring your first credit card.

However, given the plethora of choices available in the UAE, selecting a card can be a bit overwhelming. It's a significant decision, no doubt. So, the question stands: how can you decide which card suits you best?

Initially, it's important to determine whether you’re eligible to get one. Take a step back and assess if you meet the requirements necessary to apply for it. If you’re based in the UAE, understanding the application process is also important. Here, we break down the journey of how to get credit card in UAE in detail, focusing on the key factors such as minimum salary for credit card and the exciting concept of free for life credit cards.

Determining the Basic Eligibility Criteria

The journey towards getting your first credit card begins with fulfilling the basic eligibility requirements set out by UAE financial institutions. These criteria generally involve:

Age Factor: Applicants should be at least 21 years of age to be eligible for a credit card. This ensures you’re legally capable of entering into a financial contract with the bank.

Residency Status: You need to hold a UAE residency permit, whether you're an expatriate or a UAE national. The banks require this as a measure to ensure you have a stable presence in the country.

Employment Stability: Banks typically require proof of stable employment along with a regular income. This is a standard measure to ascertain your capability to repay your credit card dues.

If you fall short on any of the eligibility criteria and would still like the convenience of a payment card, you can use the Pyypl virtual card. This is a digital payment card powered by Mastercard and can be used like any other credit card. However, instead of borrowing money from the bank, you’ll essentially need to top it up and use that money instead. Pyypl also offers a host of benefits, including 2% cashback on Careem, Dubai Taxi, Talabat, Uber Eats, Deliveroo, Uber, and Zomato, in addition to free first international money transfer to more than 40 countries.

To find out more, send your prepaid card enquiry to us today.

The Minimum Salary Requirement for a Credit Card

The income threshold required for a credit card varies across the UAE banks. The range for the minimum salary for credit card in UAE is typically between AED 3,000 to AED 15,000 per month. However, certain premium credit cards demand higher income brackets. Some banks also require you to have a current account with them before they accept your application for a credit card. You can check our blog on the minimum salary required to open a bank account in Dubai for a detailed guide.

Understanding the income prerequisite set by your preferred bank is important as it aligns your financial capability with the credit card's features and limits. It's always recommended to consult with the bank regarding their specific salary prerequisites before initiating the application process.

Choosing the Ideal Credit Card

Having satisfied the eligibility criteria, the next task is to select a credit card that resonates with your lifestyle and expenditure patterns. UAE banks offer a myriad of credit cards tailored to cater to varying spending habits and lifestyle preferences.

Some credit cards offer enticing rewards for categories such as travel, shopping, or dining, while others provide a cashback feature on your expenditures. Certain banks even offer the attractive free for life credit card, which exempts you from paying an annual fee, thus providing lifetime financial convenience.

Initiating the Application Process

After zeroing in on the desired credit card, you can start the application process, which can typically be executed online via the bank's website or by visiting a local bank branch. The application involves the following details:

Personal Information: This includes essential details such as your name, date of birth, and contact information.

Employment and Income Details: You’ll be required to furnish details regarding your employer, current job position, salary, and tenure of employment.

Residential Information: This pertains to your present address, and you may also be asked to submit proof of residence.

Identification: Identification proof in the form of your passport or Emirates ID is typically required.

The bank will then conduct a comprehensive review of your application, inspecting your credit history and other provided information. If your application meets the bank's approval criteria, they will proceed to issue your credit card.

Managing Your Credit Card Responsibly

After getting your credit card, you’ll need to learn how to manage it effectively. It's essential to regularly make payments, avoid exceeding your credit limit, and maintain a healthy credit score. This not only helps you steer clear of penalties but also contributes to building a good credit history.

Final Thoughts

The UAE is a global financial hub and offers a multitude of options that can be tailored to your needs. As such, the question of how to get credit card in the UAE requires a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria, a focus on the minimum salary for credit card, an informed choice when deciding which one to apply for and following the correct application procedures. Once obtained, a credit card can lead to greater convenience in financial transactions, improve your credit score, and allow you to enjoy numerous benefits and rewards.

Frequetly Asked Questions

Recommended articles