If you’re new to credit cards, one of the first questions you’ll face in the UAE is: “How much do I need to earn to qualify?” Unlike opening a prepaid or zero-balance account, credit cards usually have a minimum salary requirement. Banks want to make sure you can handle repayments before they approve your application.
For young professionals, especially those just starting their financial journey, understanding these requirements is key to avoiding rejections and choosing the right card for your income level.
What Is the minimum salary for a credit card in the UAE?
In most cases, UAE banks set the minimum monthly salary at AED 5,000 for a standard, unsecured credit card. This is the benchmark across many major banks. However, there are exceptions:
- Some banks allow entry-level cards for AED 4,000 monthly salary.
- A few institutions, under special programs, approve credit cards for AED 3,000 monthly salary, often with restrictions.
- Premium credit cards with perks like lounge access or travel benefits may require AED 15,000 to 20,000+ monthly salary.
The safe answer is that AED 5,000 is the average requirement, but it always depends on the bank, the card type, and your financial profile.
Factors that affect credit card eligibility
While salary is important, banks don’t only look at your paycheck. Other factors play a role in whether you get approved and what credit limit you’ll receive.
- Credit Score and History: banks check your repayment history through the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB). A good score increases your chances, while a poor score may lead to rejection—even if you meet the salary requirement.
- Employment Stability: a stable job with a reputable employer is seen as less risky than short-term contracts or freelance work.
- Debt-to-Income Ratio: if you already have loans or other credit cards, banks evaluate whether your income can handle more debt.
- Existing Bank Relationship: customers who already have savings accounts or payroll transfers with the bank often have better approval chances.
Salary thresholds at UAE Banks: a comparison
To make things clear, here’s a look at how banks generally structure salary requirements for credit cards:
| Type of Card | Typical Minimum Salary | What to Expect |
| Entry-Level / Basic Cards | AED 3,000 – 4,000 | Limited benefits, lower credit limits, sometimes secured cards |
| Standard Cards | AED 5,000 | Most common requirement, with moderate perks and rewards |
| Premium / Gold / Platinum Cards | AED 10,000 – 15,000 | Travel benefits, cashback, higher limits |
| Elite / Black / Infinite Cards | AED 20,000+ | VIP lounges, concierge services, global perks |
Remember: These numbers can vary by bank and product. Always check the latest terms before applying.
What happens if you earn below the requirement?
Earning less than AED 5,000 doesn’t mean you can’t access a credit card at all—it just means your options are more limited. Some possibilities include:
- Secured Credit Cards: Backed by a fixed deposit, these cards work like regular credit cards but use your savings as collateral.
- Entry-Level Cards: Banks may approve cards with lower limits and fewer perks if your salary is AED 3,000–4,000.
- Payroll-Based Cards: If your employer has an agreement with a bank, you may qualify for special cards even with lower salaries.
For example, a worker earning AED 3,500 might not qualify for a premium travel card, but they could be approved for a secured card or an entry-level cashback option.
Tips to improve your chances of getting a credit card
If you’re close to the minimum salary or worried about rejection, here are practical steps to strengthen your application:
- Maintain a good credit score: Pay bills and loans on time.
- Keep debts low: Avoid applying if you already have multiple active loans.
- Show stable employment: Having a steady job history helps convince banks.
- Open an account with the bank first: Building a relationship improves trust.
- Start small: Apply for an entry-level or secured card, then upgrade later.
Minimum salary vs credit limit: know the difference
It’s important to note that the minimum salary requirement is not the same as your credit limit.
For instance, if you earn AED 5,000, you may qualify for a standard card, but your credit limit could be set at AED 3,000 or less. Banks often cap limits at a percentage of your monthly salary (e.g., 2x your income).
If your income is below the standard, you still have options, such as secured cards or payroll-based products.
Over time, as your income and credit history grow, you’ll qualify for more rewarding cards with higher limits and better benefits.
The key takeaway: Start small, manage your card responsibly, and build your financial profile step by step.