Best Credit Cards in UAE for Low Salary (2025 Guide)

Eligibility Criteria for Low Salary Credit Cards in UAE (2025)

Applying for a low salary credit card in the UAE requires meeting certain basic criteria. While most banks set their minimum monthly income at AED 5,000, some may have slightly higher requirements depending on the product type. If your salary is below this threshold, you may still qualify through a secured credit card (backed by a fixed deposit) or as a supplementary cardholder.

Here are the most common eligibility factors:

• Minimum Income Requirement: Typically AED 5,000, though select banks offer options for AED 3,000–4,000 with restrictions.
• Employment Status: Full-time employment in the UAE with a valid work contract; some banks prefer salary transfer accounts.
• Age Criteria: Minimum age is usually 21 years; maximum age at application is often 60 years for expatriates and 65 years for UAE nationals.
• Residency Proof: Applicants must hold a valid UAE residence visa.
• Credit History: A clean repayment history improves approval chances. If you are new to credit, starting with a low-limit card can help you build your score (see our guide on How to Build Credit Score in UAE).

Pro tip: If your current bank requires a higher salary than you earn, consider applying for a no-annual-fee card or an Islamic credit card with flexible income rules.

Top 5 Low-Salary Credit Cards in UAE (2025)

Even with a modest monthly income, you can still enjoy valuable perks from the right credit card. UAE banks have designed several cards for residents earning AED 5,000 or slightly above, offering cashback rewards, lifestyle discounts, and fee waivers. Below are the top 5 low-salary credit cards in the UAE for 2025:

1. ADCB Essential Credit Card

The ADCB Essential is a straightforward entry-level card designed for first-time applicants.

• Minimum Salary: AED 5,000
• Highlights: Cashback on daily spends, movie ticket offers, lifestyle discounts.
• Best for: Salaried professionals looking for a simple card to manage expenses.

Ideal if you’re also exploring Best Cashback Credit Cards in UAE.

2. FAB SHARE Standard Credit Card (Free for Life)

This FAB SHARE Standard card is perfect if you want lifetime savings with no annual fees.

• Minimum Salary: AED 5,000
• Highlights: Free for life, earn SHARE points redeemable at Carrefour, VOX Cinemas, and Mall of the Emirates.
• Best for: Shoppers and families who spend often at Majid Al Futtaim outlets.

Compare with our list of Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Cards in UAE.

3. FAB Islamic Cashback Credit Card

A strong option for residents who prefer Sharia-compliant banking.

• Minimum Salary: AED 5,000
• Highlights: Cashback on essential categories, transparent profit rates, Islamic structure.
• Best for: Individuals who want rewards without compromising Sharia principles.

Explore more in our Best Islamic Credit Cards in UAE guide.

4. Dubai Islamic Bank Prime Gold Credit Card

The DIB Prime Gold card blends affordability with Islamic benefits.

• Minimum Salary: AED 5,000
• Highlights: Attractive discounts, lifestyle privileges, and DIB reward offers.
• Best for: Residents seeking Islamic features and access to Dubai Islamic Bank’s services.

Will also be featured in our upcoming “Best Islamic Low-Salary Credit Cards in UAE” guide.

5. Standard Chartered Platinum X Credit Card

A globally recognized bank offering an entry-level lifestyle card.

• Minimum Salary: AED 5,000
• Highlights: Lifestyle discounts, dining offers, and easy installment plans.
• Best for: Expats who want an international bank card with affordable entry requirements.

Also check our Best Travel Credit Cards in UAE if you plan occasional trips.

Editor’s Note: All five cards balance low salary eligibility with useful everyday rewards. Before applying, evaluate your main spending habits groceries, utilities, travel, or entertainment to ensure you choose the card that gives you maximum value.

Comparison of Top 5 Low-Salary Credit Cards in UAE (2025)

How to Choose the Best Credit Card for Low Salary in UAE

Finding the right credit card when your salary is at the AED 5,000 level can feel overwhelming. With so many offers in the market, the key is to match the card’s features with your lifestyle, spending habits, and financial goals. Here’s what you should look at before applying:

1. Annual Fee vs. No Annual Fee

If your budget is tight, start with a no-annual-fee card or one that offers a waiver for the first year. This ensures you don’t pay unnecessary costs while building your credit profile. Cards like FAB SHARE Standard (Free for Life) are excellent entry-level options.

2. Cashback on Essentials

Cashback cards are ideal for low-salary applicants because they return value on daily expenses like groceries, fuel, and bill payments. If your goal is to save monthly, explore our guide to the Best Cashback Credit Cards in UAE.

3. Islamic vs. Conventional Cards

For Sharia-compliant banking, Islamic credit cards such as FAB Islamic Cashback or DIB Prime Gold are structured around profit-sharing instead of interest. Learn more in our Best Islamic Credit Cards in UAE guide.

4. Credit Limit and Flexibility

Low-salary cards often come with smaller credit limits. Pick a card that allows installment plans or flexible repayments, especially if you’re new to credit. This prevents overspending while giving you time to build your credit score.

5. Rewards and Lifestyle Benefits

If you’re someone who spends on dining, entertainment, or occasional travel, choose a card that aligns with these categories. For example, Standard Chartered Platinum X offers lifestyle discounts, while some cards provide airport lounge access for frequent flyers (see our Best Travel Credit Cards in UAE guide).

6. Long-Term Value

Don’t just look at the welcome offers consider whether the rewards structure will stay valuable in the long run. A small cashback on essentials is often more useful than a one-time bonus.

Pro Tip: Always compare at least two or three cards before applying. The “best” card is the one that aligns with your lifestyle today, but also helps you grow financially for tomorrow.

Application Process for Low-Salary Credit Cards in UAE (Step by Step)

Getting approved for a credit card in the UAE is not just about meeting the salary requirement — banks also check your credit history, employment stability, and documents. If you earn AED 5,000 or slightly above, here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Check Eligibility

Every bank has its own policy, but most low-salary credit cards require a minimum monthly income of AED 5,000. If your salary is lower, consider:

• A secured credit card backed by a fixed deposit.
• A supplementary card linked to a family member’s account.

2. Compare Available Options

Don’t apply randomly. Compare annual fees, cashback offers, Sharia-compliant features, and lifestyle perks. Use our credit card comparison guides to shortlist the most relevant cards.

3. Prepare Required Documents

Most UAE banks require the following:

• Valid passport copy (with UAE residence visa)
• Emirates ID copy
• Salary certificate or salary transfer letter
• Bank statements for the last 3–6 months

4. Apply Online or at a Branch

Many banks now offer instant online applications, while others may require a visit to the branch for verification. Online applications are generally faster.

5. Bank Review & Approval

The bank will verify your salary, credit history, and submitted documents. If you’re a first-time applicant, expect a lower credit limit initially.

6. Receive and Activate Your Card

Once approved, you’ll receive your card within a few days. Don’t forget to activate your card through online banking or phone banking before use.

Pro Tip: If you want to increase approval chances, apply with a bank where your salary is already being transferred, as they have a stronger relationship with you.

Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Low-Salary Credit Card in UAE

Even though low-salary credit cards are designed to be more accessible, many applicants make avoidable mistakes that lead to rejections or unnecessary costs. Here are the key pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Applying for Multiple Cards at Once

Submitting applications to several banks at the same time can hurt your credit score. Instead, compare your options first, then apply for the one or two cards that truly fit your needs.

2. Ignoring Annual Fees and Hidden Charges

Some cards advertise rewards but come with high annual fees or hidden costs. Always check whether the fee is waived in the first year or if the card is free for life. You can explore alternatives in our Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Cards in UAE guide.

3. Overlooking Sharia-Compliant Options

Many residents prefer Islamic banking products but end up with conventional cards because they didn’t check carefully. If Sharia compliance matters to you, consider cards like FAB Islamic Cashback or DIB Prime Gold.

4. Missing Minimum Payment Deadlines

Low-salary earners are more vulnerable to debt traps. Missing even one minimum payment can lead to late fees and higher charges, damaging your credit score. Always set up auto-pay if possible.

5. Not Aligning the Card with Spending Habits

The best card for you depends on how you spend. For instance:

• Heavy grocery spenders → Cashback cards.
• Frequent travelers → Travel-focused cards (see Best Travel Credit Cards in UAE).
• Budget-conscious users → No-annual-fee options.

Pro Tip: A credit card should make your financial life easier, not more stressful. Take time to understand the terms, and don’t be lured by short-term promotions.

Benefits of Low-Salary Credit Cards in UAE

Low-salary credit cards in the UAE are designed to provide financial flexibility and essential perks without requiring a high income. While they may have lower credit limits, they still offer meaningful advantages to help you manage day-to-day expenses.

1. Accessible Entry Point

With a minimum salary requirement of AED 5,000 (and in some cases AED 3,000–4,000), these cards are easier to qualify for, making them ideal for young professionals and first-time applicants.

2. Build Your Credit Score

Using your card responsibly paying bills on time and keeping balances low helps you build a positive credit history. This is essential for qualifying for premium cards or loans in the future. See our guide on How to Build Credit Score in UAE.

3. Cashback and Rewards

Even entry-level cards offer cashback on essentials like groceries, fuel, and utilities, which can reduce your monthly expenses while earning small but consistent rewards.

4. Lifestyle Discounts

From dining offers to movie ticket deals, many low-salary cards come with lifestyle benefits that let you enjoy more for less. Examples include entertainment discounts and partner mall rewards.

5. Sharia-Compliant Options

For residents who prefer Islamic banking, low-salary Islamic credit cards such as FAB Islamic Cashback and DIB Prime Gold offer profit-sharing models instead of interest, ensuring Sharia compliance without sacrificing rewards.

6. Flexibility in Payments

Some cards provide installment plans and balance transfers, helping you manage larger purchases over time without facing immediate high costs.

Pro Tip: The real value of a low-salary credit card isn’t just in rewards but in how it helps you manage cash flow, save on essentials, and build long-term financial credibility.

Bank-Specific Minimum Salary Requirements for Credit Cards in UAE (2025)

Each bank in the UAE sets its own minimum salary requirement for credit cards. While most entry-level cards need AED 5,000, some banks provide options starting from AED 3,000. The table below highlights the most common requirements:

Pro Tip: If your salary is between AED 3,000–4,000, consider FAB, RAKBANK, or DIB, which offer more flexibility compared to global banks like HSBC.

Fees and Charges Overview for Low-Salary Credit Cards in UAE

Before applying for a low-salary credit card in the UAE, it’s important to understand the typical fees and charges. These costs can vary by bank, but most cards fall within the ranges below:

Pro Tip: Always review your credit card’s Schedule of Charges before applying. If you want to avoid extra costs, explore our guide on Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Cards in UAE.

Pros and Cons of Low-Salary Credit Cards in UAE

Low-salary credit cards provide essential benefits for first-time users and modest income earners. However, like all financial products, they come with both advantages and limitations. Here’s a balanced look:

Pros

• Easy Approval: Minimum salary requirements start from AED 3,000–5,000.
• Credit Building: Helps establish or improve your credit score in the UAE.
• Cashback & Rewards: Discounts on groceries, fuel, dining, and bills.
• Islamic Options: Sharia-compliant cards available for ethical banking needs.
• Low Entry Barrier: No need for high income or long credit history.

Cons

• Lower Credit Limits: Usually between AED 5,000–15,000, depending on salary.
• Fewer Premium Perks: Limited airport lounge access or travel rewards compared to high-end cards.
• Interest Costs: APR of 2.99%–3.45% monthly if balances aren’t paid on time.
• Hidden Fees: Some cards include annual fees or foreign exchange charges.
• Limited Offers from Global Banks: Banks like HSBC require higher salaries (AED 10,000+).

Pro Tip: If your salary is low but rising, start with a no-fee or cashback card. Once you’ve built a good credit history, you can upgrade to premium cards with higher rewards and better perks.

Conclusion

Low-salary credit cards in the UAE show that a modest income doesn’t block access to useful banking benefits. With a typical minimum salary of AED 5,000, you can qualify for cards that offer cashback, no-annual-fee options, lifestyle discounts, and Sharia-compliant structures.

Choose a card that matches your monthly habits and long-term goals:

• Save on everyday spends: pick a cashback card that rewards groceries and fuel.
• Keep costs low: prefer a free-for-life or waived-fee card.
• Follow Sharia principles: select an Islamic credit card with transparent profit-sharing.

Start with a sensible, low-fee card, use it responsibly to build your credit, and you’ll be able to upgrade to premium products within months. For side-by-side comparisons and to apply, visit our hub: Credit Cards UAE. If you want personalized help, check our detailed picks:

• Best Cashback Credit Cards in UAE
• Best Islamic Credit Cards in UAE
• Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Cards in UAE

Ready to apply? Compare the top cards above and apply to the one that fits your budget then set up autopay to protect your score and avoid fees.