As an expat in the UAE, having the right credit card can significantly enhance your financial experience, offering benefits tailored to your lifestyle and needs. From travel rewards to cashback on everyday purchases, the UAE banking sector offers a variety of credit card options designed specifically for expatriates.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the top 5 credit cards available to expats in the UAE in 2025, comparing their features, benefits, and requirements to help you make an informed decision.
1. Emirates NBD Skywards Infinite Credit Card
Best for: Frequent travelers and Emirates airline loyalists
- Key Benefits: Up to 2.5 Skywards Miles per USD spent, complimentary airport lounge access worldwide
- Annual Fee: AED 1,499 (waived for the first year)
- Minimum Salary Requirement: AED 30,000 per month
- Sign-up Bonus: 50,000 bonus Skywards Miles
The Emirates NBD Skywards Infinite Credit Card is ideal for expats who frequently travel with Emirates or its partner airlines. The generous miles earning rate and complimentary lounge access make it a premium travel companion.
2. ADCB TouchPoints Infinite Credit Card
Best for: Everyday spenders looking for flexible rewards
- Key Benefits: Up to 3 TouchPoints for every AED 1 spent, dining discounts up to 30%
- Annual Fee: AED 1,050 (waived with minimum annual spend)
- Minimum Salary Requirement: AED 25,000 per month
- Sign-up Bonus: 100,000 TouchPoints (equivalent to AED 1,000)
The ADCB TouchPoints program offers exceptional flexibility, allowing you to redeem points for flights, hotel stays, shopping vouchers, or even cash back. This makes it an excellent all-around option for expats.
3. Mashreq Solitaire Credit Card
Best for: Luxury lifestyle and premium benefits
- Key Benefits: Up to 5% cashback on select categories, unlimited airport lounge access
- Annual Fee: AED 1,500 (waived for Mashreq Solitaire customers)
- Minimum Salary Requirement: AED 50,000 per month
- Sign-up Bonus: AED 2,000 cashback on minimum spend
The Mashreq Solitaire Credit Card caters to high-income expats, offering premium lifestyle benefits including concierge services, luxury dining experiences, and exclusive event access across the UAE.
4. Standard Chartered Cashback Credit Card
Best for: Everyday value and cashback
- Key Benefits: Up to 10% cashback on supermarket spending, 3% on utility bills
- Annual Fee: AED 500 (waived for first year)
- Minimum Salary Requirement: AED 10,000 per month
- Sign-up Bonus: AED 500 cashback
With one of the lowest minimum salary requirements, this card is accessible to many expats and offers excellent value through its generous cashback program on everyday essential spending.
5. RAK Bank World Credit Card
Best for: Global travelers and dining enthusiasts
- Key Benefits: No foreign transaction fees, 3% cashback on international purchases
- Annual Fee: AED 750 (waived with minimum spend)
- Minimum Salary Requirement: AED 15,000 per month
- Sign-up Bonus: 10% cashback on first international purchase
The RAK Bank World Credit Card stands out for its travel-friendly features, including no foreign transaction fees and competitive exchange rates, making it ideal for expats who frequently travel or send money abroad.
How to Choose the Right Credit Card as an Expat
When selecting a credit card in the UAE, consider these factors:
- Salary Requirements: Ensure you meet the minimum income criteria
- Spending Habits: Choose rewards that align with your lifestyle (travel, cashback, etc.)
- Annual Fees: Calculate if the benefits outweigh the costs
- Foreign Transaction Fees: Important if you frequently use your card abroad
- Additional Benefits: Consider insurance coverage, airport lounge access, etc.
Application Process for Expats
To apply for a credit card in the UAE as an expat, you'll typically need:
- Valid Emirates ID
- Passport copy with valid residence visa
- Salary certificate or bank statements (last 3-6 months)
- Proof of residence (utility bill or rental agreement)
Most banks now offer digital application processes, allowing you to apply online and upload documents electronically. Approval times typically range from 2-7 business days.
Conclusion
The right credit card can be a powerful financial tool for expats in the UAE, offering not just convenience but also significant benefits and rewards. By understanding your spending patterns and financial goals, you can select a card that maximizes value while minimizing costs.
Remember to use credit responsibly and pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges, which can quickly outweigh any benefits earned.
