Best UAE Credit Cards for Expats in 2026: Cashback, Miles, No-Fee
Compare the top UAE credit cards for expats in 2026, including cashback options, airline miles, and no-annual-fee choices with clear salary thresholds.
Which UAE credit cards suit expats in 2026?
Expats living in the UAE can choose from several cards that reward everyday spending with cashback or airline miles. Selection depends on salary, spending habits, and whether you want annual fees waived.
ENBD Skywards Infinite Card
This card converts spending into Emirates Skywards miles. Cardholders earn up to 2 miles per dirham on international purchases and 1 mile per dirham locally. The annual fee is AED 2,250, waived if you spend AED 120,000 in a year. Minimum salary requirement is AED 25,000 per month. The card includes airport lounge access and free supplementary cards.
ADCB Lulu Titanium Card
Shoppers at Lulu Hypermarkets receive 5 percent cashback, while other local spending earns 1 percent. The card carries no annual fee. Eligibility starts at AED 5,000 monthly salary. Cardholders also receive 10 percent off at participating Lulu stores on selected weekends.
FAB Cashback Card
First Abu Dhabi Bank offers uncapped 2 percent cashback on all purchases when the annual fee of AED 99 is paid. The fee is waived after AED 24,000 annual spend. Salary threshold is AED 5,000 monthly. Cashback is credited monthly and can be redeemed for statement credit or vouchers.
Salary thresholds and eligibility
Most premium cards require proof of salary transfer or a valid residence visa. Banks review income through salary certificates or bank statements. Applicants under the minimum salary may still qualify with a fixed deposit, though rewards are lower.
Comparison of key benefits
| Card | Annual fee | Salary needed | Best reward |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENBD Skywards Infinite | AED 2,250 (waived on spend) | AED 25,000 | 2 Skywards miles per AED |
| ADCB Lulu Titanium | AED 0 | AED 5,000 | 5 percent at Lulu |
| FAB Cashback | AED 99 (waived on spend) | AED 5,000 | 2 percent everywhere |
Application process
Submit your Emirates ID, passport copy, and salary certificate through the bank app or branch. Approval usually takes three to five working days. Once approved, activate the card in the mobile app and set a PIN at any ATM.
Foreign transaction fees
ENBD Skywards Infinite charges 2 percent on overseas purchases. ADCB Lulu and FAB Cashback cards have no foreign transaction fees, making them useful for frequent travel.
Responsible use tips
- Pay the full balance each month to avoid 3.5 percent monthly interest.
- Track rewards in the bank app to avoid expiry.
- Request a credit limit increase only after six months of on-time payments.
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Frequently asked questions
What salary do I need for ENBD Skywards Infinite?▾
AED 25,000 monthly salary or equivalent fixed deposit; fee waived after AED 120,000 annual spend.
Does the FAB Cashback card have foreign fees?▾
No foreign transaction fees; 2 percent cashback applies worldwide after the AED 99 fee is waived.
Can I get ADCB Lulu Titanium with low salary?▾
Yes, the card requires only AED 5,000 monthly salary and has no annual fee.
How long does card approval take?▾
Banks usually approve within three to five working days after submitting Emirates ID and salary proof.
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