Salary Below AED 5,000? These Credit Cards in UAE Still Approve You

Many people in the UAE believe earning a salary under AED 5,000 means credit cards are out of reach. While it’s true that many premium cards require higher income, options do exist for lower-income residents—including practical credit cards designed specifically for those earning below AED 5,000.

Having a credit card can be valuable even on a modest salary. It helps build a credit history, manage emergencies, and access rewards like discounts or cashback. However, it’s important to choose carefully and avoid unnecessary fees or high interest rates.

This guide explores credit card options for UAE residents earning less than AED 5,000 monthly and tips for boosting approval chances.

Why Many UAE Credit Cards Require Higher Salaries

Banks in the UAE assess credit risk carefully. Higher-income applicants are seen as lower risk and more likely to repay debts, so banks offer them:

• Higher credit limits
• Lower interest rates
• Exclusive perks (lounge access, concierge services, luxury rewards)

By contrast, applicants with salaries below AED 5,000 often face:

• Rejections due to income requirements
• Lower credit limits
• Higher interest rates if approved

Despite these challenges, several banks cater to lower-income residents who manage finances responsibly.

Challenges of Applying for a Card on a Low Salary

Before exploring specific cards, it’s helpful to understand the potential obstacles:

1. Minimum Income Criteria

Many credit cards in the UAE clearly state a minimum monthly salary requirement—sometimes starting at AED 5,000 or AED 8,000. Applying for cards above this level often results in automatic rejection.

2. AECB Credit Score

The Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) tracks every resident’s credit behaviour. Even with a lower salary, a good credit score can help secure approval for basic cards. Conversely, a low score due to late payments or defaults makes approval harder.

3. Lower Credit Limits

Approved cards for low salaries often come with modest credit limits, such as AED 2,000–5,000. This helps banks limit risk but may not suit all spending needs.

4. Annual Fees and Charges

Low-income cards sometimes come with higher annual fees relative to their credit limit. It’s crucial to check the fee structure carefully to ensure the card is truly affordable.

Banks Offering Credit Cards for Salaries Below AED 5,000

While many cards are out of reach, these options may still be available for lower-income residents:

1. FAB Ratibi Prepaid Card

• Not technically a credit card but a popular option for low-income earners.
• No salary transfer requirement.
• Used for salary deposits and everyday spending.
• Helps manage expenses without risk of overspending.

While this card doesn’t offer credit, it helps build financial habits and can serve as a stepping stone toward a credit card once income increases.

2. ADCB SimplyLife Credit Card

• Some variants may accept salaries starting from AED 4,000.
• No annual fee in certain categories.
• Basic cashback on supermarket purchases.
• Simple application process for UAE residents.

Applicants should check specific card types, as minimum salary requirements vary slightly across ADCB’s SimplyLife range.

3. Emirates Islamic Cashback Card

• Offers cashback on daily spending.
• Some versions start at AED 4,000 minimum income.
• Shariah-compliant option for those preferring Islamic banking.
• Easy online application.

This card provides useful rewards for low-to-moderate spending.

4. RAKBANK Red Mastercard

• Minimum salary may start from AED 3,500–4,000.
• Simple approval process.
• Some cashback benefits on specific categories.
• Basic lifestyle offers such as dining discounts.

While not packed with luxury perks, it’s practical for everyday use.

5. Najm Silver Credit Card (by Majid Al Futtaim Finance)

• Accepts lower salaries depending on application details.
• Linked to rewards on Carrefour spending.
• Discounts and benefits across Majid Al Futtaim retail outlets.
• Affordable annual fee or sometimes free for the first year.

This card is a favourite for those shopping frequently at Carrefour

Tips to Boost Approval Chances

Getting approved for a credit card with a low salary is possible—but requires careful steps:

1. Maintain a Good AECB Credit Score

Even with a lower salary, banks look favourably on applicants who:

• Pay bills on time.
• Avoid defaulting on loans.
• Keep existing credit card balances low.

A higher AECB score signals financial responsibility, making banks more willing to approve a modest credit limit.

2. Consider a Bank Where Salary is Credited

Banks prefer to issue credit cards to customers whose salaries are credited into their accounts each month. This gives the bank confidence in income stability.

3. Start with a Prepaid Card

If banks decline credit applications, consider starting with a prepaid card like the FAB Ratibi. While it doesn’t build credit history directly, it’s a useful step toward financial discipline.

4. Avoid Multiple Applications

Applying for several cards at once can damage the AECB credit score. Each application leaves a mark, signalling risk to banks.

5. Use Tools like Test My Card UAE

Platforms like Test My Card UAE help residents identify cards matching their salary and credit profile. Users can:

• Enter salary details.
• Upload AECB reports if available.
• Receive personalised recommendations with higher chances of approval.

This avoids applying blindly and reduces the risk of rejections.

Example Scenario

Consider a resident earning AED 4,200 monthly, spending:

• AED 1,000 on groceries
• AED 500 on transport
• AED 500 on shopping

Using Test My Card UAE, this resident might discover:

• The ADCB SimplyLife Card with no annual fee and supermarket cashback.
• RAKBANK Red Card offering modest cashback and low minimum salary requirements.

Instead of guessing, they find a card that suits their income and lifestyle—without risking rejection.

Why Having a Card Still Matters

Even on a lower salary, having a credit card helps:

• Build a positive credit history for future loans or higher-limit cards.
• Handle unexpected expenses or emergencies.
• Earn small but valuable rewards on everyday spending.
• Enjoy financial flexibility when needed.

The key is choosing a card with manageable fees and using it responsibly.

Final Thoughts

Residents earning below AED 5,000 in the UAE often believe credit cards are out of reach. Yet options exist for those who plan carefully and maintain good financial habits.

By avoiding multiple applications and using tools like Test My Card UAE, low-income earners can find credit cards designed for their budget — helping them build credit history and enjoy modest rewards.

It’s proof that financial opportunities in the UAE aren’t only reserved for high-income brackets. The right credit card can still offer convenience and savings, even on a modest salary.

The features, benefits and offers mentioned in the article are applicable as on the day of publication of this blog and is subject to change without notice. The contents herein are also subject to other product specific terms and conditions and any third party terms and conditions, as applicable. Please refer our website www.testmycard.com for latest updates.