Best Credit Cards in UAE Without Annual Fees (2025)

List of Best 5 Credit Cards in UAE Without Annual Fees (2025)

1. Standard Chartered Manhattan Platinum Credit Card

• Annual Fee: AED 0 (First year free, AED 525 from second year)
• Interest Rate: 27.9%
• Minimum Salary/Income: AED 5,000
• Shariah-Compliant: No
• Documents Required: Emirates ID or Passport, visa copy, salary transfer letter or bank statement/salary certificate

Key Features:

• Up to 3% cashback on groceries, fuel, and utility bills
• Buy 1 Get 1 movie tickets at select cinemas
• Access to 1000+ airport lounges worldwide
• Balance transfer and flexible payment options
• Contactless payment and mobile wallet support

2. ADCB Lulu Platinum Credit Card

• Annual Fee: AED 0 (Lifetime Free)
• Interest Rate: ~3.25% per month
• Minimum Salary/Income: AED 5,000
• Shariah-Compliant: No
• Documents Required: Emirates ID, passport copy, visa, bank statement, salary certificate

Key Features:

• Up to 5% cashback at Lulu stores
• Free movie tickets and dining discounts
• 1 Lulu point = AED 1 redemption value
• Contactless payment enabled
• Instant discounts on selected retail outlets

3. Citibank Citi Simplicity Credit Card

• Annual Fee: AED 0 (Lifetime Free)
• Interest Rate: ~3.5% per month
• Minimum Salary/Income: AED 5,000
• Shariah-Compliant: No
• Documents Required: Emirates ID, passport copy, recent payslips or salary certificate, bank statement

Key Features:

• No annual fee, no late payment fee, no over-limit fee
• Interest-free balance transfers for up to 18 months
• Free travel and purchase protection
• 24/7 customer service and fraud monitoring
• Great for debt consolidation and low-risk spending

4. FAB Cashback Credit Card (Islamic)

• Annual Fee: AED 0 (Lifetime Free)
• Interest Rate: Competitive Islamic profit rate
• Minimum Salary/Income: AED 5,000
• Shariah-Compliant: No
• Documents Required: Emirates ID, salary certificate, 3–6 months bank statement, visa copy

Key Features:

• Up to 5% cashback on fuel and grocery spends
• Shariah-compliant with no interest
• Flexible payment plans with zero profit options
• Cashback credited monthly
• Lifestyle benefits and exclusive FAB partner discounts

5. RAKBANK Red Mastercard Credit Card

• Annual Fee: AED 0 (Lifetime Free)
• Interest Rate: Around 3.45% per month
• Minimum Salary/Income: AED 5,000
• Shariah-Compliant: No
• Documents Required: Emirates ID, passport, salary certificate or 3-month bank statement

Key Features:

• Up to 5% cashback on groceries, dining, utility bills
• Free remittances via RAKMoneyTransfer
• Mobile app with spending insights and alerts
• Monthly cashback cap of AED 150
• Smart budgeting tools for expense control

6. Emirates Islamic Cashback Plus Credit Card

• Annual Fee: AED 0 (First year free, waived on minimum spend)
• Interest Rate: Competitive Islamic rate
• Minimum Salary/Income: AED 5,000
• Shariah-Compliant: No.
• Documents Required: Emirates ID, visa, salary certificate or payslip, bank statement

Key Features:

• Up to 10% cashback on telecom, education, dining, and fuel
• Free airport lounge access in MENA region
• Takaful (Islamic insurance) protection included
• Optional installment plans on large purchases
• Lifestyle offers and merchant discounts

Eligibility Criteria for No-Annual-Fee Credit Cards in the UAE

No annual fee credit cards in the UAE are a smart choice for cost-conscious users. However, banks still have standard eligibility conditions.

Here’s what you generally need to qualify:

• 1. Minimum Salary: AED 5,000-8,000 per month, depending on the card.
• 2. Age: Must be at least 21 years old (some allow 18+ with a guarantor).
• 3. Residency: UAE resident with a valid Emirates ID.
• 4. Credit Score: A fair to good AECB credit score (650+ recommended).
• 5. Employment: Full-time job or self-employment (extra documents may apply).
• 6. Documents Required:
  • Emirates ID (front & back)
  • Passport + Visa copy
  • Salary certificate or last 3 payslips
  • Last 3-6 months' bank statements

Meeting these basic requirements can help you easily access UAE’s top no-fee credit cards.

Always check specific card terms, as conditions may vary slightly by bank.

Key Features of the Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Cards in the UAE

No-annual-fee credit cards offer significant value by providing everyday benefits without the burden of yearly charges. 

Here are the most useful features you can expect from top zero-fee cards in the UAE:

Top Features (Point-Wise):

1. Zero Annual Fee: No hidden renewal or maintenance charges.
2. Cashback Rewards: Up to 5-10% cashback on groceries, dining, and online spending.
3. Lifestyle Discounts: Buy 1 Get 1 free offers on movies, dining, and travel.
4. Airport Lounge Access: Free access to premium lounges in UAE and abroad.
5. Contactless Payments: Support for Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Wallet.
6. Reward Points: Earn and redeem points for shopping, travel, or fuel.
7. Fee Waivers: Some cards offer zero late payment or over-limit fees (e.g., Citibank Simplicity).

These features make no-fee credit cards a smart and budget-friendly financial tool, especially for salaried expats and first-time users in UAE.

How to Choose the Best Credit Cards in UAE Without Annual Fees

With so many zero-fee credit cards available in the UAE, choosing the right one depends on your lifestyle, income, and financial goals.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you decide wisely.

• 1. Check Your Salary Eligibility: Most cards require a monthly income of AED 5,000–8,000.
• 2. Verify Lifetime Free Status: Ensure the card is truly free for life, not just for the first year.
• 3. Match the Card to Your Spending Habits:
  • Groceries? Go for high cashback cards.
  • Travel? Look for lounge access and air miles.
  • Food delivery? Talabat or lifestyle cards work best.
• 4. Consider the Credit Score Requirement: A score of 650+ improves approval chances.
• 5. Check for Additional Perks: Look for rewards, discounts, or fee waivers that suit your needs.
• 6. Evaluate Documentation Needs: Prepare your Emirates ID, salary slips, and bank statements.

The best no-fee credit card is one that aligns with your income and lifestyle.

Always compare features, eligibility, and hidden charges before applying to get maximum value without annual costs.

How to Apply for a No-Annual-Fee Credit Card in UAE

Applying for a no-annual-fee credit card in the UAE is a straightforward process if you meet the eligibility criteria and prepare the right documents.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you apply quickly and increase your chances of approval.

Step-by-Step Application Process:

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the minimum salary (AED 5,000-8,000), are 21+ years old, and have a valid UAE residency.
2. Compare Cards Online: Use trusted comparison sites or bank websites to find a lifetime free card that suits your spending habits.
3. Prepare Required Documents:  Emirates ID (front & back), Passport with visa page, Salary certificate or last 3 payslips,  Recent 3-6 months' bank statements
4. Apply Online or at a Branch: Most banks offer a quick online application with instant pre-approval.
5. Wait for Verification: Bank representatives may call to verify your details and arrange document pickup.
6. Get the Card Delivered: Upon approval, your card is delivered within 3-7 working days.

Applying for a zero-fee credit card in the UAE is easy if you're well prepared. Focus on eligibility, choose the right card for your lifestyle, and apply through secure channels to enjoy hassle-free benefits without paying a dirham in annual fees.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Credit Cards in UAE Without Annual Fees 

Applying for a no-annual-fee credit card in the UAE can be rewarding but many applicants get rejected or choose the wrong card due to simple yet avoidable mistakes.

Here are the top errors to watch out for when choosing the best zero-fee credit card in the UAE.

Top Mistakes to Avoid:

• Ignoring the Minimum Salary Requirement
  Applying without meeting the AED 5,000–8,000 income criteria leads to auto-rejection.
• Assuming All Cards Are ‘Lifetime Free’
  Some cards are only first-year free, then charge annual fees. Always read the terms.
• Not Checking Your AECB Credit Score
  A poor score can lead to rejection. Always check your credit score in the UAE before applying.
• Submitting Incomplete or Inaccurate Documents
  Missing Emirates ID, wrong salary slip, or outdated bank statements delay or cancel your application.
• Applying for Multiple Cards at Once
  This creates multiple credit checks, which can lower your AECB score. Apply selectively.
• Choosing Perks Over Relevance
  Don't go for luxury perks if you won’t use them. Focus on cashback, rewards, or lifestyle savings that fit your routine.

To successfully get approved for the best no annual fee credit card in the UAE, avoid these common mistakes.

Always review eligibility criteria, read the fine print, and align the card’s features with your actual spending habits.

A smart application improves approval chances and long-term value.

Conclusion

Choosing the right no-annual-fee credit card in the UAE is about more than just avoiding yearly charges it's about finding a card that matches your lifestyle and spending habits. By comparing features, you can enjoy savings on groceries, dining, travel, and more without paying extra fees.

If you want to maximize everyday savings, explore our guide on Best Cashback Credit Cards in UAE 2025. Frequent travelers can benefit from the Best Travel Credit Cards in UAE 2025, while those seeking Shariah-compliant finance should check out the Top Islamic Credit Cards in UAE 2025.

Before applying, make sure to review your AECB credit score in UAE to increase your chances of approval and secure the best financial benefits in 2025.