If you’re considering moving to or doing business in the UAE, understanding the credit scoring system will be an essential component of building your financial health. Many people don’t realise how much their credit score can affect loan approvals and interest rates in the Emirates. Luckily, building good credit scores in the UAE is not difficult once you know how the system works.
Unlike many other countries, the UAE has its own credit system with specific rules and reporting methods. That’s why we’ve created this guide at Remitly to help you understand everything about credit scores in the UAE. You’ll learn what affects your score, how to check and improve it, and practical steps to build a solid financial foundation.
What are credit scores in the UAE?
A UAE credit score is a three-digit number that reflects your creditworthiness, showing how reliable you are at repaying borrowed money. Banks and lenders use your score to determine whether you qualify for a loan, credit card, or other financial product.
Unlike in the US or UK, where firms like Experian or Equifax handle credit reporting, the UAE’s system is centralised under the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB). This government agency gathers data from banks, telecom providers, and other financial institutions to assess your financial behaviour.
The UAE model emphasises verified local data, making it better aligned with spending and payment habits. Scores range from 300 to 900. The higher your score, the more financially trustworthy you appear to lenders.
Here’s what credit scores in the UAE mean for your creditworthiness:
- Below 650: Poor (lenders may reject applications or offer higher interest rates)
- 650–699: Fair (credit may be available, but with limited terms)
- 700–749: Good (access to more financial options at better rates)
- 750–900: Excellent (eligible for favourable loans and credit terms)
How are credit scores calculated in the UAE?
Your credit score is calculated based on how responsibly you manage money, debt, and other financial obligations linked to your Emirates ID.
Payment history (35%)
This is the most important factor in your UAE credit score. It shows whether you pay your bills, credit cards, and loans on time. Even one missed or late payment can hurt your score. For example, skipping a telecom bill or delaying credit card payment can damage your record.
Credit utilisation (30%)
This reflects how much of your available credit you use. If you spend less than 30% of your limits, it shows financial discipline. For example, if your card limit is 10,000 AED, aim to use less than 3,000 AED regularly to keep your score healthy.
Length of credit history (15%)
The longer your record of responsible borrowing, the better. Lenders trust borrowers who have shown steady repayment over time. Even if you’re new to credit, making timely, consistent payments can help you build a stronger credit history.
Type of credit accounts (10%)
Having a mix of credit, such as a personal loan, credit card, or car finance, can boost your score. It shows lenders that you can manage different debts responsibly. However, applying for too many products at once could hurt your score.
New credit enquiries (10%)
Each time you apply for a new loan or credit card, lenders make a hard inquiry on your report. Too many enquiries in a short time can make you look financially stressed and lower your score. That’s why you should only apply for credit you genuinely need.
Why is credit scoring in the UAE important?
Before we explain how to check your credit score, let’s discuss why your scores matter. Basically, your credit score affects how much you can borrow and the rate you’ll pay.
How banks use your credit score
Your UAE credit score can impact many areas of your financial life, including mortgages and loans. Borrowers with scores of 750 and above often get lower mortgage rates, while those below 650 may face higher rates or need bigger deposits.
When you apply for a personal loan, a good score boosts your approval chances and can get you higher loan amounts. For example, a score above 700 could help you secure a 100,000 AED loan at a lower rate, while a weaker score might mean smaller loans and higher instalments.
Your credit score also affects which credit cards you qualify for and your spending limit. With a high score, you can access premium cards that offer cashback, travel perks, and rewards. A lower score usually limits you to basic cards with fewer benefits.
How credit scores are used by other companies
Car lenders place strong emphasis on your credit score when deciding on loan rates and approvals. For example, if your credit score is excellent, you could enjoy a rate as low as 2.9%, but if it’s only fair, you might end up paying 4–5% or even more. Keeping your score high can save you thousands of dirhams over the life of your loan.
Some insurance companies also consider your credit behaviour when setting premiums. A strong credit score signals reliability, which can lead to lower rates. Even though the link isn’t as direct as with loans, maintaining good credit habits can still help you cut overall financial costs in the long run.
How to check your UAE credit score
You can check your UAE credit score through the AECB website or mobile app:
Via the AECB website
- Visit the official AECB website
- Register or log in using your Emirates ID number, registered mobile number, and email address
- After logging in, go to the “get your credit score and report” page
- Click on the credit score tab and select “buy now”
- Complete the payment process to access your credit score or full UAE credit report
Via the AECB mobile app
- Download the AECB app from the App Store or Google Play
- Register or sign in to your AECB account using your Emirates ID
- Tap “get your credit score”
- Proceed to checkout and pay the required fee to get your score within minutes
If you want to see just your Emirates credit rating, it costs about 10–11 AED. For a full credit report with your financial details, the fee is around 80–100 AED, depending on the option you choose. The AECB doesn’t offer a free annual report, but you can buy yours anytime with a small payment.
Your AECB report includes key financial details such as:
- Personal identification information (Emirates ID, name, date of birth)
- Current and past credit accounts, including loans, credit cards, and mortgages
- Payment history, showing on-time and late payments for each account
- Outstanding balances and credit limits across all credit products
- Enquiries and applications made to banks or lenders in the past 24 months
- Public records, such as bounced cheques or court-related financial actions
Other ways to monitor your credit score
Many major UAE banks, like Emirates NBD, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), Mashreq, and RAKBANK, let you check your credit score directly through their mobile or online banking apps. You can also use financial or fintech apps that send monthly score updates and alerts, making it easy to track and resolve issues early.
Common factors that hurt credit scores in the UAE
Even small money mistakes can affect your Emirates credit rating, so if you’re looking to build your credit, avoid these situations:
- High credit card balances: Using too much of your available credit, even if you pay on time, can lower your score. Maxing out your cards makes lenders think you rely too much on credit.
- Bounced cheques: In the UAE, bounced cheques indicate financial instability and are reported to the AECB. This can cause a sharp drop in your AECB credit score or even lead to legal trouble. Always ensure you have enough funds before issuing a cheque.
- Closing accounts too quickly: Closing old or unused bank accounts can shorten your credit history and reduce your total available credit. Both can hurt your score. Keep older accounts open to show long-term financial stability.
- Joint accounts or co-signed loans: If you share a credit card, car loan, or mortgage, your co-signer’s actions affect your score too. Missed payments or loan defaults by them will appear on your credit report. Keep an eye on joint accounts and ensure both parties pay on time to protect your credit record.
How to improve your credit score in the UAE
Keeping your AECB credit score healthy requires steady, smart habits. Here are some easy ways to maintain or build your credit:
- Automate your payments: Set up automatic bill and loan payments to avoid missed due dates.
- Become an authorised user of another account: If you join a trusted account with a good history, its strong record can help improve your score.
- Check your AECB report regularly: Look out for errors or outdated details that could hurt your score, and dispute any inaccuracies.
- Manage your debt wisely: Keep your debt-to-income ratio low by paying down loans and credit card balances.
- Use your credit card often and smartly: Small purchases with regular payments can help you build a solid repayment record.
Special considerations for expatriates
Expats make up a large part of the UAE’s population, and the local credit system works differently from most countries. Understanding how it affects you can help protect your financial reputation during your stay and after you leave.
How leaving the UAE affects your credit score
Your AECB credit file remains active even after you leave. Any unpaid credit cards, loans, or utility bills will still appear on your record and may cause issues if you return or apply for services with international banks linked to the UAE.
Before leaving, clear all outstanding balances and close your account properly. Request written clearance from banks and service providers. Leaving with unpaid debts can lead to legal action, travel bans, or credit problems if you come back to live or work in the UAE.
Building credit as a new resident in the UAE
If you’ve just moved to the UAE, your journey starts fresh. Your Emirates ID becomes your financial identity, and you may start with a lower score simply because there’s not enough data to assess.
Begin building your credit history by opening a local or digital bank account, getting a secured credit card, and paying every bill on time. Keeping steady employment and regular salary deposits also helps show lenders that you’re financially dependable.
If you have a credit history in other countries, keep in mind that the UAE’s credit system doesn’t automatically import international credit information. However, global banks like HSBC and Standard Chartered may review your overseas record when you apply for your first product.
To strengthen your application, share your salary slips, past bank statements, or reference letters from your previous banks. They can help you get fast approvals and better credit terms.
Building your financial future in the UAE
A solid credit score in the UAE makes life easier. It helps you qualify for loans faster, secure better interest rates, and unlock more financial opportunities. To keep your score healthy, pay every bill on time, avoid maxing out your cards, and manage accounts responsibly.
Check your UAE credit report at least once a year through the AECB to spot errors, note areas for improvement, and focus on paying down any debt. With consistency, you’ll build lasting financial stability in the UAE.
FAQs
How can you check your credit score in the UAE?
Check your credit score through the AECB website or app using your Emirates ID and phone number. A small fee applies and you’ll instantly receive your detailed UAE credit report.
What if I find a mistake on my AECB report?
If you spot an error, such as a wrong payment date or account, submit a dispute through the AECB website or app. Upload documents that prove your claim, and the bureau will review and make a decision.
How can you improve your credit score in the UAE?
Pay bills and loan instalments on time, keep credit card usage below 30%, and avoid frequent loan or card applications. Over time, consistent and responsible financial habits will raise your score.
Can my employer or landlord check my credit score?
Only banks and approved organisations can access your report directly. Employers or landlords can ask you to share your report, but it’s your choice to provide it.