Islamic Finance & Banking

What is Islamic Finance?

Islamic finance simply put is a method of conducting financial transactions, banking, and managing money with moral principles that respect Islamic law or Sharia. Islamic finance includes activities like saving, investing, and borrowing money either for business or personal transactions that are permissible under Sharia and that comply with Islamic Laws. The concept of Islamic finance also refers to the type of investments that are permissible under Sharia.

Sharia or Islamic Law constitutes a broad set of rules that guide an individual on leading an ethical life. These rules and guidelines are derived from the Qur’an and the sayings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad. The word Sharia in Arabic means “the way,” thus showing an individual the ideal way to live. In the context of Islamic finance, the rules and guidelines place an emphasises on justice and partnership. Hence, you may hear Islamic financial services often described as “Islamic finance” or “Shari’ah-compliant”.

Principle of Islamic Banking

The Islamic law or Sharia recognises money only as a medium of exchange which has no value in itself. Therefore, as per Sharia law money cannot generate more money. The Islamic law prohibits the income earned through the medium of interest generated. This interest can be defined as interest generated through lending money, or interest earned by money simply sitting in an account.

Islamic finance is principally based on trading with emphasises on justice and partnership. The use of money for the purposes of making money is explicitly forbidden.

The main principles of Islamic finance are:

  • Wealth must be generated from lawful trade and asset-based investment
  • Each transaction must be related to a real underlying economic transaction.
  • Investment should have a social as well as an ethical benefit to wider society beyond pure return
  • Profit/Loss and Risks should be shared
  • All harmful activities (haram) should be avoided

Therefore, banks can make a profit from the buying and selling of Shari’ah-compliant goods and services. When a customer deposits money according to Islamic law, the bank needs to select a Shari’ah-compliant investment for the purpose of that deposit. The profits and risks that come with the investment are shared equally with the bank. The practices of Islamic banking have some clear ethical advantages over more traditional banking systems, which can be seen as unprincipled.

Things Prohibited in Islamic Finance

In order to comply with the Shari’ah, certain activities are prohibited in Islamic finance.

The following activities are strictly prohibited in Islamic finance:

Charging and receiving interest (riba):

  • A lender charging a straight interest, irrespective of how the underlying assets fare disobeys the concept of risk sharing, partnership, and justice. Thus, representing money being used to make more money. Investment in companies that conduct borrowing excessively is also prohibited.

Investments in unethical businesses (haram):

  • Investing in businesses that deal with activities like alcohol, gambling, drugs, pork, pornography, or anything else that Shariah considers unlawful or undesirable is prohibited.

Investments in transactions that involve speculation, uncertainty, or extreme risk (gharar):

  • This type of investment is considered gambling, which is prohibited (haram). For example, investing or speculating on the futures and options markets is prohibited. Mutual insurance (which relates to uncertainty) is permitted if it is related to a reasonable and unavoidable business risk.

Uncertainty about the subject matter and terms of contracts:

  • Selling something that one does not own is prohibited. Investing in special financial techniques that is available for contracting to manufacture a product for a customer is considered as investing in a product which one doesn’t own, as the product hasn’t been made yet. A manufacturer can promise to manufacture the product under certain agreed specifications at a determined price and on a fixed date and in this case, the risk taken is by a bank that would commission the manufacturer and sell the goods on to a customer at a reasonable profit for undertaking this risk. Thus, the bank is exposed to considerable risk. Avoiding contractual risk in this way means that transactions have to be explicitly defined from the outset. Hence, complex derivative instruments and conventional short sales or sales on margin are prohibited under Islamic finance.

Things Permitted in Islamic Finance

As mentioned above, the receipt of interest is not prohibited in Islamic finance. Hence, when Islamic banks provide finance, they have to find other means to earn their profits. This can be done through the profit share relating to the assets in which the finance is invested or can be via the fee that is earned by the bank for the service provided. The essential feature of Islamic law is that when commercial loans are made, the lender must have a share in the risk. If this is not so, then any amount received over the principal of the loan will be regarded as interest.

The following activities are permissible financing instruments in Islamic finance:

Profit and Loss Sharing Contracts (Mudarabah):

  • The Islamic bank pools together investors’ money and accepts a share of the profits and losses, as agreed upon with the depositors beforehand. The bank invests in a group of mutual funds screened for Sharia compliance. These investments are then filtered to determine whether any sources of income to the business are prohibited. Companies that hold a lot of debt or are engaged in forbidden lines of business are excluded. In addition to actively managed mutual funds, passive funds also exist. They are based on such indexes as the Dow Jones Islamic Market Index and the FTSE Global Islamic Index.

Declining Balance Shared Equity

  • Commonly used to finance a home purchase, declining balance shared equity calls for the bank and the investor to purchase the home jointly. The bank will then gradually transfer its equity in the house to the individual homeowner, whose payments comprise the homeowner’s equity.

Lease to Own

  • This arrangement is akin to the declining balance shared equity. The financial institution or bank puts up most of the money for the house and agrees to sell the house to the eventual homeowner at the end of a pre-decided fixed term. A portion of every payment goes toward the lease and the balance goes towards the home’s purchase price.

Instalment Sale (Murabaha)

  • An instalment sale starts with an intermediary buying the home with a free and clear title to it, which is then sold to a prospective buyer on an agreed upon sale price. This price includes some amount of profit. This purchase can be made either outright (lump sum) or through a series of deferred (instalment) payments. This credit sale should not be confused with an interest-bearing loan as it is an acceptable form of finance.

Leasing (Ijarah)

  • Leasing or Ijarah involves selling the right to use an object for a specific time. The condition followed must be that the lessor should own the leased object for the duration of the lease. A variation on the lease, ‘ijarah wa ‘iqtina, provides for a lease to be written where the lessor agrees to sell the leased object at the lease’s end at a predetermined residual value. This promise binds only the lessor and the lessee is not obligated to purchase the item.

Islamic Forwards (Salam and Istisna):

  • These are used for certain types of business and are not that common. The price for the item is paid in advance and the item is delivered at a definite point in the future. The help of an Islamic legal advisor is usually required as there is a host of conditions to be met to render such contracts valid.

Some permissible Basic Investment Vehicles are:

Equities

  • Sharia law allows investment in company shares (common stock) as long as those companies do not engage in any forbidden activities (haram). Investment in companies can be in form of shares or by direct investment (private equity).

Fixed-Income

  • Retirees who want their investments to comply with the principles of Islamic finance face a dilemma in that fixed-income investments include riba, which is forbidden. Hence, specific types of investment in real estate provide steady retirement income while not running afoul of Sharia law. These investments can be direct or securitized, such as a diversified real estate fund.

Basic Insurance Vehicles

  • As traditional insurance is not permitted as a means of risk management in Islamic law, a possible Sharia-compliant alternative is cooperative (mutual) insurance. Investors contribute to a pool of funds, which are invested in a Sharia-compliant manner. Funds are withdrawn from the pool to satisfy claims, and unclaimed profits are distributed amongst the policyholders.

Who makes the rules for Islamic Finance?

Islamic finance offers products and services that comply with Islamic law (Sharia) and often the question that comes up is of who decides what is and is not sharia-compliant? Also, what mechanisms are existing to enforce those judgments?

There are several options a bank can utilise to keep check of these rules

Sharia Supervisory Boards:

  • Generally, each Islamic finance institution has a sharia supervisory board (SSB). This board is composed of at least three jurists. These jurists although are paid by the bank, act as independent consultants and are involved in both consultative and regulatory aspects. They verify operations, answer the staff’s questions, advise on charity contributions (zakat), and certify products.
  • The Sharia Supervisory Boards decide what is allowed (halal) or forbidden (haram) based on the two main sources of Islamic law; the Quran and the Sunnah; or what Prophet Muhammad reportedly said and did during his lifetime. Board decisions are taken by a majority vote and are binding on the bank.
  • These SSB members are religious scholars who specialise in Islamic jurisprudence. It is not necessary for them to be Muslims only. In countries like the UK, there are also non-Muslims experts who have studied and specialised in this matter extensively.
  • Over the past decade, Islamic finance has rapidly expanded across the world and finding qualified people to sit on SSBs has become challenging. In the world of Islamic finance, reputation is important and sharia non-compliance can be extremely fatal to a bank.

Sharia-Compliance Consultancy: A Juicy Business

  • With the increasing popularity of Islamic finance, a number of private firms have emerged over the past few years offering sharia compliance services or consultancies. Their clients are not only Islamic banks but also conventional lenders and companies who wish to develop products or acquire certifications that will allow them to tap into the Islamic market.
  • These consulting firms employ a group of Islamic scholars who function like an externalised sharia board, providing guidance and issuing Islamic rulings (fatwas) in exchange for a fee.

International Standards and Central Banks

  • At the international level, two supervisory bodies are created for Islamic finance. They are the Bahrain-based Accounting and Auditing Organisation for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) and the Malaysian Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB).
  • These bodies collaborate with institutions such as the IMF or the World Bank to promote sharia compliance globally. The AAOIFI sets basic standards for the Islamic finance industry while the IFSB issues recommendations based on risk assessment.
  • In Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, AAOIFI standards are mandatory but, in most countries, their standards and recommendations are not binding. If a bank doesn’t comply, there are no sanctions. It is up to each independent country government to enforce certain rules through their central banks who impose those rules on sharia boards.
  • In all countries except for Sudan and Iran Islamic finance exists alongside conventional banking. For Islamic banks, this means navigating a dual regulatory framework. This means the country follows the country’s laws and regulations as well as sharia compliance.

Growth of Islamic Finance

The concept of Islamic finance can be traced back to about 1,400 years ago when the concept came into existence along with the foundation of Islam. However, the establishment of formal Islamic finance related to the banking sector came into being only in the 20th century. In recent history, it can be traced to as recent as the 1970s, when Islamic banks in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates were launched. The concept has since grown with Bahrain and Malaysia emerging as centres of excellence in the 1990s.

Shari’ah-compliant financing (SCF) or Islamic finance is recognised as one of the fastest-growing segments in the global financial system. Since 2009, the estimated compound annual growth rate has been 17%, proving the significance of Islamic finance in the global economy. The Islamic finance sector has had a significant expansion since, with a growth rate of at least 15%-25% per year. As of 2015, the industry’s global assets had reached up to $1.6 trillion in value. In today’s date and time, it is estimated that worldwide Islamic financial institutions oversee assets valued at over $2.5 trillion with hundreds of specialised institutions located in more than 80 countries, which are managed under the rules of Sharia.

Understanding the importance Islamic finance plays in the global economy, the popularity of Islamic finance is reaching systemic significance in a number of countries in Asia. Islamic finance has achieved at least a 15% market share in the domestic banking sector in countries like Brunei, Bangladesh, and Malaysia. The expansion of Islamic finance can also be seen in developing member countries (DMCs) within Central West Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. Here Islamic finance has been expanding to new jurisdictions and maintaining momentum where it already has a strong established presence. The DMCs have begun implementing legislative and regulatory initiatives to establish themselves as Islamic financial hubs.

Islamic finance is gaining popularity not only in countries having predominantly Muslim populations but also in European and African countries. Luxembourg, Hong Kong, China, the United Kingdom, and South Africa have debuted sovereign Sukuks (Islamic trust certificates, similar to conventional bonds), with all issuances being at least twice oversubscribed, demonstrating strong demand for Islamic finance globally. According to a State of Global Islamic Economy report in 2019, the total sharia-compliant assets are expected to grow to at least $3.5 trillion by the year 2024. Islamic finance is proving to be an increasingly relevant sector as can be derived from the increasing market share of Islamic finance in the domestic banking sectors around the world.

The Bottom Line

Islamic finance is a century-old practise that is gaining recognition throughout the world. Islamic banks are by far the biggest players in the Islamic finance industry, accounting for almost $1.75 trillion or 70% of the total assets. In 2019, Islamic finance represented about 1% of global financial assets with an 11.4 % growth rate. Islamic finance is expanding quicker than conventional finance, however with COVID 19 that growth is expected to slow down but remain positive. In some geographies like the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) or Sub-Saharan Africa, Islamic banks are now competing directly with the Western banks to attract more Muslim clients and given the increasing development of Muslim nations, this field is expected to undergo even more rapid evolution. Islamic finance will continue to address these challenges of resolving Islamic investment policy and modern portfolio theory.

Eligibility Criteria for Personal Loan in the UAE for Expats

What are the Eligibility Criteria for Personal Loan in the UAE for Expats?

Nestled in the southeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula, the UAE is an ever-growing country. Since the 1960s, the Emirates have experienced significant economic growth and have quickly become one of the richest nations in the world. The UAE is a melting pot of cultures, with around 85% of the entire population consisting of expatriates. Many come to the UAE seeking new opportunities and growth. Thus, the UAE has a large and vibrant community of expats and with many professional opportunities available to expatriates, it is one of the best destinations to live and grow in.

Understanding your money management options as an expat living in the UAE can be tricky and confusing. It is important to know which options are right for you to open and operate your bank account and ensuring your family’s home and belongings. With the rise in the cost of living in the UAE, it may sometimes become difficult to save funds for a rainy day, which can further lead to a financial crisis during emergencies. You can opt for a personal loan from banks for financial aid. However, to get a Personal loan in the UAE for expats, you have to be eligible as per the requirements of the banks. The eligibility criteria usually differ from bank to bank and are based on the applicant’s profile.

Banks in UAE offer two types of personal loans to expats:

  • Personal Loan Without Salary Transfer: Personal loan in UAE without salary transfer provides the loan applicant to apply for a personal loan without having to transfer their salary into a particular bank account. Citibank, FAB or some banks offering loans without salary transfer.
  • Personal Loan With Salary Transfer: Personal loan in UAE with salary transfer rewards the loan applicant to maintain an account with the bank by transferring their salary into it every month. ENBD, Mashreq, FAB and Citibank are some popular salary transfer loans in the market.

The loan with salary transfers offers an attractive interest rate as compared to the ones without a salary transfer. In general, a personal loan without a salary transfer is opted by those who either do not have their company listed by the banks for a salary transfer loan or for those who are looking for a second loan.

The eligibility requirements for a Personal Loan in the UAE for expats are:

  • Minimum Income: Banks in UAE have different requirements for the minimum monthly income of expats for personal loans. While the minimum requirement is AED 5000 fixed salary per month, most of the banks have their entry level criteria ranging from AED 7000 per month. The higher the income the better are the options.
  • Employment Status & Listed Company: This applies to salaried individuals. While some banks give approval with company listings, some banks in UAE require expats to be employed in their listed companies. Listed companies are those which have been categorized or scrutinized by the banks as companies eligible for such a Salary transfer loan for its staff. The listing is basically done on the company credibility such as years in business, number of employees, setup, and other factors.
  • Salary Transfer: Some banks in UAE require salary transfers for personal loan approval.
  • Age: The maximum age of applicants is 60 and the minimum age is 21 for applying for a personal loan in UAE for expats.
  • Proof of Residency: Almost every bank offers loans for expats, but it is difficult to find a bank that can offer personal loans for non-resident expat. Expats can apply for personal loans that can provide residency proof by providing a passport with a valid visa and documents supporting proof of residency.
  • Credit history: Customers applying for personal loans in UAE should have a good credit score with a good credit history. A good credit report shows that the applicant is eligible to repay the loan. Applicants with high credit score can get preferential interest rates from banks. Minimum Credit Score (Al Etihad Credit Bureau Score) starts from 651. The better the score the lower the interest rate in general.
  • Employment and Income Proof: This can be shown by presenting a salary slip and documents supporting your employment status. Certain banks also require the applicant to have a specified experience in their job to qualify, in such a case the joining letter would also have to be submitted to the bank
  • Bank statements: Depending on the banks, the applicant would have to submit their bank statements ranging between the last three to six months.
  • Loans for Self-employed Customers: Some of the banks such as RAKbank, ADCB and DIB provide loans to self-employed customers. The criteria usually are the years in business, nature of the business and the Average Annual Turnover.

Along with the eligibility criteria, applicants also need to present official documents to the banks for getting a personal loan.

For Identification of the Expats:

  • Copy and Original Emirates Identity Card
  • Resident Visa proof
  • Address proof (for example utility bill)
  • Security Cheque (Undated)

For salaried expats:

  • Salary transfer letter or salary certificate
  • Bank statement of the previous 3 months

For Self-employed Expats:

  • Power of attorney
  • Memorandum of Association
  • Trade license
  • Bank statement of the previous 6 months

The interest rate for personal finance varies for expats and differs across different banks. They are based on two options.

  • Reducing the rate of interest: The reducing rate of interest starts at a certain percentage but declines every year.
  • The flat rate: The flat rate of interest is decided at the beginning by the bank and is consistent and cannot be reduced on a yearly basis.

Some of the best consumer loan providers in the UAE for expats are:

List of BanksMaximum Finance AmountMinimum Monthly Salary Required
Emirates Islamic Personal FinanceUp to 2 million AEDAED 5000
Ajman Bank Goods MurabahaUp to 1 million AEDAED 6500
ADIB Personal FinanceUp to 1 million AEDAED 8000
CBD Personal LoanUp to 750,000 AEDAED 8000
Emirates NBD Personal Loan Without Salary TransferUp to 500,000 AEDAED 10,000
Mashreq Personal Loan for ExpatsUp to 1 million AEDAED 7000 (for applicants from the approved list)
AED 10,000 (for applicants of the unapproved companies)
RAKBANK Personal Loan for ExpatsNAAED 5000

Tips for Getting Your Application for a Personal Loan Approved:

In order to ensure that the application does not get rejected, applicants should keep certain tips in mind

  • Ensure that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria that has been stated by the bank. If the applicant fails to meet any of the eligibility criteria, the request will be denied.
  • Ensure that the applicant has a good credit score to let the banks know the risk associated with providing the applicant the loan.
  • Ensure that the applicant would be able to payback the loan factoring your monthly salary and expenditures.
  • Most banks in the UAE give upto 4 years for repayment.
  • Sending out multiple applicants would damage the chances of getting a personal loan.

The process to apply for a loan has become simple and easy to help and encourage expats in gaining a personal loan in the UAE. However, applying for a personal loan does not confirm the loan approval. Expats will have to qualify certain eligibility criteria to be approved and financed.

The well-researched, solidly structured, unbiased content along with unique tools at SoulWallet helps you make well informed financial decisions for your personal and business transactions. In the process, SoulWallet helps you identify the options that will let you save money and enjoy the best perks.

SoulWallet grants their users services that would help them make the most of a wide range of personal finance solutions, from credit card reward cards in the UAE, to personal loans, to Islamic credit cards, to air miles credit card application and a lot more.

The Biggest Advantages of Using an EMI Calculator

The Biggest Advantages of Using an EMI Calculator before Applying For Your Personal Loans in UAE

Personal loan is a type of unsecured loan that helps you meet your current financial needs. While availing for a personal loan you don’t require collateral or a need to pledge any security, and personal loans are also generally quickly disbursed. Personal loans can serve as a solution for managing a number of your needs, such as, expenses for higher education, medical emergency, holidays, wedding celebrations, to expand one’s business, and other needs.

Over the years due to instant financial availability and easy accessibility, personal loans have become tremendously popular amongst professionals as well as for personal finance. However, just like any other loan, you must repay it accordance to the agreed terms with the bank from where the loan was borrowed from. Some of the most important factors that you need to consider before availing a personal loan are the interest rates, repayment capacity, and the tenure of the loan.

Calculating personal loan EMI manually or making do with speculations could be inefficient or more often that result in an incorrect value. Hence it is preferable to opt for the personal loan EMI calculator to consider your suitability to take out a personal loan before applying for one.

What is a Personal Loan EMI Calculator?

Whenever you take up a personal loan, you have to pay back to the bank the principal amount along with the interest amount that is calculated every month. EMI stands for Equated Monthly Instalment. A personal loan EMI Calculator is a tool that helps you to evaluate and calculate the amount that has to be paid every month for your personal loan.

It is advisable to check the amount with an EMI calculator before applying for a personal loan as you would be aware of the monthly amount that you need to repay during your tenure. This in turn would help you determining how a personal loan might affect your monthly expenses and lifestyle and help you understand and manage your monthly financial goals.

Calculating the EMI for your personal loan is an incredibly simple process. See how much you can save by choosing right Personal Loan with the help of SoulWallet’s Personal Loan EMI Calculator.

How Does the Personal Loan EMI Calculator Work?

EMI calculator is a simple and very easy to use tool that does the calculations for you to calculate your loan. The personal loan EMI is based on some parameters such as the amount borrowed and the interest rate that is applicable based on your loan tenure. The first thing you enter is the principal amount that you wish to take out through your personal loan. Next, you put in the duration of your loan, which is the period of time you’d be allowed to repay your personal loan. And finally, the calculator needs to take into account the interest rate being charged, which is a percentage of the principal amount you have to repay.

After you put in all the required information, the personal loan EMI calculator would calculate and provide you with the EMI amount. The tool is available anytime and without any costs for you to choose a loan best suitable for you.

Factors affecting Your EMI Amount

Some of the factors that can affect your EMI amount are:

  • Loan amount – The higher amount of loan you borrow the high would be the monthly instalment. In this, the interest rate and tenure remain constant.
  • Interest rate – If your interest rate is high then you need to pay a high amount of monthly instalment.
  • Tenure – If the tenure is for long period the monthly instalment would be low, but this would lead to a high amount of interest rate as compared to a shorter tenure of the loan.

Benefits of a Personal Loan EMI Calculator

It is advisable that you use a personal loan EMI calculator before you apply for a personal loan.

Some of the key benefits that one would experience with this calculator are:

  • Fit in the EMI with necessary changes in the monthly budget: When you calculate the personal loan EMI, you know the fixed amount that you would have to pay every month till the end of the loan tenure. This would help you decide and budget your monthly expenditure throughout the loan tenure with ease.
  • Make decisions by changing the factors affecting the EMI: The loan amount, along with the monthly interest rate, and tenure play a very significant role in determining your EMI. The EMI is directly proportional to the loan amount and interest rate and is inversely proportional to the tenure of the loan. Hence, if you choose a longer tenure, then the monthly instalments would be small. The EMI calculator would help you differentiate different loan amounts with their tenures and interest rates. Thus, making it easy and convenient for you to decide the amount of loan that would suite your lifestyle and finances.
  • Ensure a healthy credit rating: When you have calculated the EMI before taking up the personal loan, you are completely prepared to manage your finances for repaying the loan in the given time. Which would result in you not missing out on the EMIs, and thus avoid a poor credit rating for you.
  • Saves time and provide accurate results: It takes a lot of time, efforts, and complicated calculations to calculate EMI’s manually. All these calculations are performed within seconds with the personal loan EMI calculator, thus saving you lot of time. Also, the chances of errors when the calculations are done manually are eradicated and you would be getting accurate results.
  • Easy to use and access: The Personal loan EMI calculator is available online on SoulWallet and it is pretty easy to use. All you need to do is enter the principal amount of the loan, interest rate, and the tenure of the loan to get the value of monthly instalments that you would have to pay. This makes it very easy for the users to calculate the monthly instalment from any place and at any time.

There are plenty of advantages of using an EMI Calculator before applying for your Personal Loans in UAE. The use of an EMI calculator helps your eligibility to avail a personal loan and repayment capabilities and ensures your financial wellbeing. SoulWallet helps you See how much you can save by choosing right Personal Loan with the help of Personal Loan EMI Calculator for you to have an easy and hassle-free experience.

The well-researched, solidly structured, unbiased content along with unique tools at SoulWallet help you make well informed financial decisions for your personal and business transactions. In the process, SoulWallet helps you identify the options that will let you save money and enjoy the best perks.

SoulWallet grants their users services that would help them make the most of a wide range of personal finance solutions, from credit card reward cards in the UAE, to personal loans, to Islamic credit cards, to air miles credit card application and a lot more.

Comprehensive Guide to Personal Loan Interest Rates in 2021

A Comprehensive Guide to Personal Loan Interest Rates in 2021

A personal loan is a loan that may be secured or unsecured and is offered with minimal documentation. You can use the funds from this loan for any financial need. Like any other loan, you must repay it as per the agreed terms with the bank in easy EMI (equated monthly installments).

Personal loans in UAE today are the preferred means of short-term credit. The bank offers personal loans based on two types of interest rates – flat rates and reducing rates. A flat rate of interest on a loan refers to when the interest and sum payable is calculated at the start of the repayment schedule and do not change until the loan has been paid off. Whereas in terms of reducing rate of interest on a loan the principal amount reduces after each installment. The interest percentage (which remains constant) is charged on the reduced amount, every month. Thus resulting in different installment amounts each month.

Types Of Personal Loans

Personal loan with salary transfer: This is most probably the first loan one can avail from the bank where the customer holds a salary account. These loans are low in interest rates compared to the other personal loans without a salary transfer. Banks offer competitive interest rates for their customers for such loans and generally require a minimum salary requirement of AED 5000 (which differs from bank to bank). If you wish to take the loan from another bank where you don’t have any account then you have to maintain an account with the bank and transfer the salary into it every month.

Personal loan without salary transfer: This is one of the popular loans that allow the loan seeker to apply for a personal loan without having to transfer their salary into a particular bank account. Interest rates are higher for such loans and the lending amount might be lower than a Salary Transfer loan.

Expat loans: Expatriates are those people who live in the UAE but aren’t residents of the UAE. To help them manage their financial needs easily, banks offer personal loans to ex-pats as well with attractive interest rates and repayment tenure up to 48 months.

Buyout loans: When you take a personal loan that can be used to pay all of your previously existing loans or a credit card debt it is known as a buyout loan. In this type of loan, the borrower has to pay a fixed monthly payment to the bank for a pre-defined period that is usually two years to five years to pay off your buyout loan. Both UAE nationals and ex-pats can apply for such loans.

Consolidation loan: Debt consolidation services allow for the consolidation of all your outstanding liabilities arising from various loans or outstanding dues on credit cards into one single consolidated liability. Such loans are advantageous because you are being able to manage all outstanding liabilities together in one consolidated form.

Consider the comparison table below on interest rates offered by banks in the UAE

Bank NameLoan NameFixed Interest RateReducing Interest RateMinimum SalaryMaximum Loan Amount
Abu Dhabi Commercial BankPersonal Finance3.25%5.90%AED 10,000AED 0
Abu Dhabi Commercial BankPersonal Loan6.25%11.33%AED 10,000AED 250,000
Abu Dhabi Commercial BankPersonal Loan For Expatriates6.25%11.33%AED 10,000AED 25,000
Abu Dhabi Islamic BankDebt Settlement3.58%6.50%AED 8,000AED 1,000,000
Abu Dhabi Islamic BankEducation Finance3.85%6.99%AED 8,000AED 250,000
Abu Dhabi Islamic BankPersonal Finance3.72%6.75%AED 8,000AED 1,000,000
Al Hilal BankPersonal Finance3.25%5.90%AED 10,000AED 0
Arab BankPersonal Loan3.30%5.99%AED 5,000AED 550,000
CitibankPersonal Installment Loan7.71%14.00%AED 8,000AED 175,000
CitibankSalary Transfer Loan3.85%8.00%AED 8,000AED 250,000
Commercial Bank Of DubaiPersonal Loan3.03%5.50%AED 8,000AED 750,000
Deem FinancePersonal Loan11.01%19.99%AED 5,000AED 0
Dubai Islamic BankLiabilities Settlement Finance0%0%AED 5,000AED 0
Dubai Islamic BankPersonal Finance6.06%11.00%AED 5,000AED 2,000,000
Emirates IslamicPersonal Finance2..17%3.94%AED 5,000AED 1,000,000
Emirates NBDEnd-Of-Service Benefit Backed Personal Loan3.30%5.99%AED 5,000AED 0
Emirates NBDLoans For Nris2.20%3.99%AED 5,000AED 0
Emirates NBDSalary Transfer Loan2.63%5.99%AED 5,000AED 1,000,000
Emirates NBDSalary Transfer Loan For UAE Nationals2.63%5.99%AED 5,000AED 3,000,000
Emirates NBDLoans For New To Country, New To Employment2.63%5.99%AED 10,000AED 400,000
Emirates NBDPersonal Cash Loan4.96%8.99%AED 10,000AED 500,000
Emirates NBDUAE National Personal Loan With Additional Income3.18%5.24%AED 10,000AED 3,000,000
Emirates NBDPersonal Loans For Self-Employed Professionals10.40%18.90%AED 20,000AED 300,000
Emirates NBDPersonal Loans For Self-Employed Individuals10.40%18.90%AED 25,000AED 0
First Abu Dhabi BankBuyout Loans4.08%7.40%AED 5,000AED 5,000,000
First Abu Dhabi BankLandlord Loans5.10%9.25%AED 5,000AED 2,000,000
First Abu Dhabi BankIslamic Personal Finance2.64%4.99%AED 7,000AED 5,000,000
First Abu Dhabi BankPersonal Loans For UAE Expats4.99%3.99%AED 7,000AED 5,000,000
HSBCPersonal Loans4.13%7.49%AED 7,500AED 750,000
MashreqDebt Consolidation Loans0.00%0.00%AED 5,000AED 0
MashreqPersonal Loan For Expatriates6.25%11.50%AED 5,000AED 1,000,000
MashreqNew To UAE, New To Employer Loan4.07%7.38%AED 7,000AED 150,000
MashreqNon Salary Transfer Personal Loan For Expatriates14.10%25.60%AED 7,000AED 150,000
MashreqEmirati Personal Loans For Pensioners0.00%0.00%AED 10,000AED 0
MashreqPersonal Loans For Emiratis0.00%0.00%AED 10,000AED 3,000,000
NbfPersonal Loans3.25%6.25%AED 5,000AED 0
RakbankNon Salary Transfer Loan5.99%10.86%AED 5,000AED 1,250,000
RakbankBusiness Finance12.00%21.00%AED 50,000AED 3,000,000
Sharjah Islamic BankPersonal Finance0.00%0.00%AED 5,000AED 0
Standard CharteredSaadiq Personal Finance4.16%7.55%AED 15,000AED 1,000,000
Standard CharteredDebt Consolidation Plan Loan3.89%7.05%AED 30,000AED 1,000,000
Standard CharteredPersonal Loan3.89%7.05%AED 30,000AED 1,000,000
Union National BankExpatriates Loan3.13%5.68%AED 5,000AED 500,000
Union National BankEducation Loan4.96%9.00%AED 10,000AED 0
Union National BankNon Salary Transfer Loan7.72%14.00%AED 10,000AED 0
Union National BankRent Loan4.96%9.00%AED 10,000AED 0
Union National BankUAE Nationals Loan2.48%4.50%AED 10,000AED 500,000
United Arab BankPersonal Loan For Expatriates3.03%5.49%AED 7,500AED 2,000,000
United Arab BankPersonal Loans For UAE Nationals3.03%5.49%AED 7,500AED 2,500,000

The above interest rates are purely indicative. Interest rate is generally based on factors such as

  • Bureau Score
  • Income
  • Loan Amount
  • Employer

The Biggest Advantages of Using an EMI Calculator Before Applying For Your Personal Loans in UAE

Before finalizing any personal loan, you should always use the EMI calculator because it will assist you to evaluate, simulate and arrive at the maximum loan amount, interest rate and affordable easy monthly instalments will help you select the best suited personal loan as per your budget. Soulwallet personal loan EMI calculator is easy to use, simple to understand, and is quick to perform. All you need is to use the slider to adjust the loan amount, interest rate (reducing), and tenure. You will get the EMI, total repayment, total interest, and interest rate (flat) as per your input.

 

 

Eligibility Criteria for Personal Loan in the UAE for Expats

What are the Eligibility Criteria for Personal Loan in the UAE for Expats?

Banks in UAE offer two types of personal loans to expats – personal loans without salary transfer and personal loans with salary transfer.

Personal Loan Without Salary Transfer: Personal loan in UAE without salary transfer provides the loan applicant to apply for a personal loan without having to transfer their salary into a particular bank account. Citibank, FAB or some banks offering loans without salary transfer.

Personal Loan With Salary Transfer: Personal loan in UAE with salary transfer rewards the loan applicant to maintain an account with the bank by transferring their salary into it every month. ENBD, Mashreq, FAB and Citibank are some popular salary transfer loans in the market.

One must always opt for loan with a salary transfer as these loans carry an attractive interest rate compared to the ones without a salary transfer. In general, a personal loan without a salary transfer is opted by those who either do not have their company listed by the banks for a salary transfer loan or for those who are looking for a second loan.

Eligibility Criteria for Personal Loan in UAE for Expats

Eligibility criteria differ from bank to bank based on the applicant’s profile. Here are some of the basic eligibility requirements for a personal loan in UAE for expats:

Minimum Income: Banks in UAE have different requirements for the minimum monthly income of expats for personal loans. While the minimum requirement is AED 5000 fixed salary per month, most of the banks have their entry level criteria ranging from AED 7000 per month. The higher the income the better are the options.

Employment Status & Listed Company: This applies to salaried individuals. While some banks give approval with company listings, some banks in UAE require expats to be employed in their listed companies. Listed companies are those which have been categorized or scrutinized by the banks as companies eligible for such a Salary transfer loan for its staff. The listing is basically done on the company credibility such as years in business, number of employees, setup and other factors.

Salary Transfer: Some banks in UAE require salary transfers for personal loan approval.

Age: The maximum age of applicants is 60 and the minimum age is 21 for applying for a personal loan in UAE.

Documents: The applicants are required to provide the following documents to apply for a personal loan:

For Identification of the Expats:

  • Copy and Original Emirates Identity Card
  • Resident Visa proof
  • Address proof (for example utility bill)
  • Security Cheque (Undated)

For salaried expats:

  • Salary transfer letter or salary certificate
  • Bank statement of the previous 3 months

For Self-employed Expats:

  • Power of attorney
  • Memorandum of Association
  • Trade license
  • Bank statement of the previous 6 months

Credit history – Customers applying for personal loans in UAE should have a good credit score with a good credit history. A good credit report shows that the applicant is eligible to repay the loan. Applicants with high credit score can get preferential interest rates from banks. Minimum Credit Score ( Al Etihad Credit Bureau Score) starts from 651. The better the score the lower the interest rate in general.

Proof of Residency – Almost every bank offers loans for expats but it is difficult to find a bank that can offer personal loans for non-resident expat. Expats can apply for personal loans that can provide residency proof by providing a passport with a valid visa.

Loans for Self-employed Customers: Some of the banks such as RAKbank, ADCB and DIB provide loans to self employed customers. The criteria usually is the years in business, Nature of business and Average Annual Turnover.

Best Personal Loans of 2021: Offers & Benefits

Best Personal Loans of 2021: Top Offers & Benefits

A personal loan is a loan borrowed to pay for personal expenses such as medical bills, travel, and much more. Such loans may or may not be secured. Secured loans require some type of collateral as a condition of borrowing. Personal loans are convenient because you need to repay the loan amount in small installments and you get the loan approved with minimum paperwork. When it comes to a personal loan in UAE, many banks have interesting offers with easy application process. To help you choose the best personal loans as per your requirements, we have listed down a few popular personal loans offered by banks in the UAE along with top offers in 2021.

  1. Citi Bank Personal Loan

If you are searching for a personal loan without a salary transfer, a Citi bank personal loan can be the best option you can go ahead with. They also have a salary transfer loan option with attractive interest rates. Some of the features that please the borrowers are:

  • Minimum Documentation
  • Loans of up to AED 175,000 (No Salary transfer required)
  • Loans of up to AED 250,000 (Salary transfer to Citi required)
  • Fast provisional approvals – in 1 day
  • Tenors from 6 months up to 48 months
  • Instant loan funding upon final approval
  • Citibank offers personal loans to companies which are not listed as well.

Please note minimum salary required to apply for this loan is AED 8000 per month.

Tip:

Your salary must be transferred to a bank. Your bank statement must evidence a minimum of AED 8000 as monthly salary for the last three months.

You must have a good credit history. Click here to find out more on how to maintain good credit history.

  1. First Abu Dhabi bank Personal loan (FAB)

Whether you are a UAE national or an expat, FAB bank offers some attractive and best personal loans options for you. Some of the features that make FAB loans popular are:

  • High loan amounts of up to AED 5 million for UAE nationals and AED 2 Million for expats.
  • Flexible repayment terms of up to 48 months (60 months for Ministry of Defense employees)
  • 90 day grace period for the first payment
  • Quick and seamless processing
  • Minimum documentation
  • Comprehensive personal life insurance coverage
  • Rates from 3.99% variable per year

Please note minimum salary required to apply for this loan is AED 7000 per month. A Salary transfer letter is required.

Tip:

Your salary must be transferred to a bank. Your bank statement must evidence a minimum of AED 7000 as monthly salary for the last three months.

You must have a good credit history. Click here to find out more on how to maintain good credit history

  1. Emirates NBD Personal Loan

Emirates NBD has loan options for every category including self-employed. ENBD loans have some of the best rates and offers allowing everyone to easily obtain funds for their personal needs. Some of the best features offered under personal loan categories are mentioned below:

  • Low-interest rates
  • 7-day Loan Return Option
  • Maximum tenor up to 48 months
  • FYF Card with Eligible Miles / Points ü Overdraft (OD) with First Year Free Setup (Nil First Year Set Up Fee
  • Free Bank Account with no minimum balance required
  • No collateral or guarantor required
  • Easy process and simple documentation
  • First payment day deferral upto 75 days for expats -Applicable to all schemes under Personal Loan product

Please note minimum salary required to apply for this loan is AED 5000 per month. A Salary transfer letter is required.

Tip: Higher the credit score better the interest rate. This is a standard norm across the market. Banks wants to ensure that the customers to whom they are lending have a good credit history.

  1. Dubai Islamic Bank Personal Loan (DIB)

A loan is provided to both UAE nationals and ex-pats by DIB. DIB also have some personal loan offers and features that are attractive, they are:

  • Upto AED 4 million for UAE Nationals and AED 2 million for Expats
  • First installment payment grace period up to 120 days
  • 100% processing fee waiver
  • The simple and easy documentation process
  • Free ADIB VISA Cashback Card for the first year
  • Complete education expenses financing
  • Two free installments postponements every year

Please note minimum salary required to apply for this loan is AED 3000 per month. A Salary transfer letter is required.

Tip: Company must be listed with DIB. Better chances if your salary is currently being transferred to DIB.

All the features and offers will vary depending upon the type of personal loan. To summarize you will have a good chance of getting your personal loan approved with the following

  1. Maintain good credit history, make payments in time on your other credit facilities.
  2. Compare and find loans that are suitable for your requirements. Note, loan amounts and interest rates are key deciding factors.
  3. Watch out for special offers on loans, these are generally not publicly available as banks offer special rates and offers for specific segments based on their internal criteria. You can write it to us at support@soulwallet.com for best offers in town.

We hope the above article is helpful in your search for personal loans in UAE. Please do review our loans listing page for more details and EMI calculators, which will help you make a quick and proper decision. Click here to apply for personal loans online.

Best Credit Cards to Get in 2021

Financial health is an important element in our lives. In times like these, it is important that we must ensure that our financial health is in best order. Credit cards are one way where we can ensure that our spends are rewarded in a good measure through loyalty rewards which is a form of a saving. This article talks about some of the best credit cards in the UAE across categories such as premium, cashback and no fee cards.

Things to note before one applies for a credit card.

We must understand our financial ability on repayments before signing up for a credit card. Since this can have a significant impact on one’s credit score which happens to be a basic requirement for any future credit requirements, one must ensure that the need and ability to pay in a disciplined manner is evident.

Some of the top reasons why customers opt for credit card are.

  • Loyalty rewards in the form of cashback, reward points or airmiles are standard feature in most of the cards. Credit card issuing companies attract customers by offering value through attractive loyalty rewards.
  • Features such as airport lounge access, valet service, buy 1 get 1 offers, promotional balance transfer rates, free movies etc., are popular and does provided value to customers who use these services.
  • Most of the credit card issuing companies offer attractive joining offers to new customers. These can be in the form of promotional cashback rates for a specific period, joining bonus airmiles, free hotel stays and so on.

Soul wallet’s extensive research on products available in the UAE is primarily to cater to customer needs in clearly understanding which the suitable cards are customized to one’s individual spend patterns.

Most of the products listed below are from our partners who compensate us. However, the review is completely unbiased and an individual opinion of Soulwallet based on product features, customer feedback etc., One must be aware that some of the product features might change at the time of your application, hence we recommend that customers revalidate specific reward features prior to application.

Best Cashback Credit Cards 2021

Product NameBank NameAnnual FeeProfit / Interest RateMinimum SalaryTop ReasonsApply Now
Cashback Credit CardFAB3153.50%5000Ramadan Offer: AED 250 Cashback for Expatriates within 30 days (valid up to 31-May-21), Ramadan Offer: AED 750 Cashback for UAE Nationals within 30 days (valid up to 31-May-21), 5% cashback on supermarket (including online), fuel and utilities.2% cashback on non-AED spends. 1% cashback on all other retail spends, including online shopping
Up to 2 discounted tickets at VOX.
No limits on how much you can earn with FAB Cashback Credit Card
Apply for FAB Cashback Credit Card Online
World Credit CardRAKBANK03.25%20000Monthly spend AED 15,000 to AED 19,999 earn cashback on: Travel - 5% (max AED 300),Supermarkets - 5% (max AED 200)
Monthly spend above AED 20,000 earn cashback on: Travel - 10% (max AED 600) , Supermarkets - 10% (max AED 400)
Monthly Spend : Up to AED 14,999 - 3% (international), 1% (domestic)
Monthly spend AED 14,999 to 29,999 - 4% (international), 2% (domestic)
Above AED 30,000 - 5% (international), 3% (domestic)
50% off at VOX cinema tickets
Free Delivery of Fuel by CAFU at your doorstep;
Free Travel Accident & Medical Cover
Free for first year.
Apply for RAKBANK World Credit Card Online
Cashback Plus CardEmirates Islamic2993.49%5000Cashback on Supermarket, Education, Dining; telecom for total monthly spend level:
Up to AED 2,499 - 0% cashback
Between AED 2,500; AED 7,499 - 3% cashback
Between AED 7,500; AED 14,999 - 5% cashback
Above AED 15,000 - 10% cashback
Maximum Cash Back Per Month - AED 200 for above categories, except Education as the cap is AED400
Earn up to 10% cashback on specific categories;
Embedded Nol chip for RTA benefits;
Unlimited Lounge Access;
Complimentary Golf any day of the week
Apply for Emirates Islamic Cashback Plus Card Online
Super Saver Credit CardCBD4203.45%800010% cashback on the following everyday retail spend categories, capped at AED 200 per category, per month. A minimum monthly total spend of AED 3,000 across all categories is required to start earning cashback Bills (e.g. Telecomm Bills, Utilities Bills and Government-Linked Payments) Education (e.g. Schools, and Colleges/Universities in the UAE and abroad), Supermarket (e.g. Grocery Stores), Transport (e.g. Fuel), Earn up to 1% Cashback on every AED 2 on all other spends, with no caps.
Maximum Cashback per month is AED 200 per category (800 in total).
Frist year free on primary card
Apply CBD Super Saver Credit Card Online
Cashback Credit CardCitibank03.25%80003% on all International Spends, 2% on grocery/supermarket spends and 1% on all other spends.
No caps, no minimum spend, no redemption process and no spend categories excluded. Exclusive Soulwallet offer of AED 300 gift card on booking
Apply for Citi Cashback Credit Card Online

Best Reward Points Credit Cards 2021

Product NameBank NameAnnual FeeProfit / Interest RateMinimum SalaryTop ReasonsApply Online
Go4it Platinum Credit CardEmirates NBD

03.25%12000Exclusive cinema offers, Life time free card along with a AED 300 Noon.com voucher
Earn Plus Points for every spend and redeem them instantly at your favourite stores. You can also convert your Plus Points to Frequent Flyer Miles or Cash back.
5 Plus Points for every AED 200 spend on weekends.
4 Plus Points for every AED 200 spend on RTA.
1 Plus Points for every AED 200 spend on weekdays
Apply for Emirates NBD Go4it Platinum Credit Card Online
Lulu Platinum Credit CardADCB03.25%15000No Annual Fee, Interest-free balance transfers, Redeem reward points instantly at Lulu, Benefits at Ferrari World & Yas Water world, Lulupoints can be redeemed with supplementary card.
Earn LuluPoints for every 1 AED spent earn 5 LuluPoints on purchases made at all Lulu stores in UAE.
For every 1 AED spent earn 1.25 LuluPoints on purchases made elsewhere subject to meeting a monthly spend goal of AED 3,500 (Lulu elsewhere).
5000 Lulupoints gives voucher worth AED 50.
Points can be redeemed instantly at the checkout counters of Lulu Hypermarket across UAE.
Can be redeemed for as low as 5000 Lulupoints with supplementary card as well.
Apply for ADCB Lulu Platinum Credit Card Online
EDGE CardADIB7502.99%1500010% cashback on all dining spend in UAE, Extensive travel insurance and protection, ADIB Rewards Program, Earn 2.5 reward points for 1 AED you spend on your card. ;Points earned can be used towards airline tickets, shopping mall vouchers and Club Apparel gift cards.Apply for ADIB EDGE Card Online
GEMS Titanium Credit CardFAB03.5%5000No annual fee. Up to 4.25% fixed discount on advanced payment of GEMS fees. 10% Cashback with Shop Smart. Enjoy access to airport lounges across the Middle East. Enjoy special offers at restaurants, premium retail etc.
Earn 1 Star for every AED 1 spent on Domestic purchases
Earn 1.75 Stars for every AED 1 spent on International purchases
Redeem your Stars for Etihad Guest Miles, Skywards Miles from Emirates, or to book tickets on any airline through Stars Travel Portal.
Apply for FAB GEMS Titanium Credit Card Online
Rewards Credit CardCitibank03.25%8000Earn ThankYou Reward points on all spends, VoucherSkout-Signup offer, Enjoy a 12-month amazon premium membership free, Get AED 300 worth of gift cards exclusively on Soulwallet
Earn 1.5 ThankYou Points for any USD 1 spent in foreign currency
Earn 1 ThankYou Points for any USD 1 spent in local currency (AED)
10 ThankYou Points for every USD 1 spent on hotel bookings at Kaligo.com
With your ThankYou Points you have the flexibility to redeem for travel rewards, merchandise, gift vouchers and many other rewarding experiences
Choose from merchandise ranging from apparel to electronics to home goods and more
Pay with Points for your purchases through SMS or Citibank Online
Apply for Citi Rewards Credit Card Online

Best Travel Credit Cards 2021

Product NameBank NameAnnual FeeProfit / Interest RateMinimum SalaryTop ReasonsApply Online
Booking.com Infinite CardADIB20003.29%20000200,000 sign-up reward points, Flight and hotel booking discounts, Extensive premium travel & lifestyle benefits
Earn rewards on all spends & cashback on specific categories through ADIB Rewards Program - Earn 3 reward points for every AED 1 domestic or international spend
Redeem your points against flight tickets/hotel bookings on Any Airline, Any Hotel Worldwide or Shopping Mall Vouchers or Club Apparel gift cards.
Redemption Value: Every 10,000 points = 50; every 100,000 points = AED 1,000
Shopping mall vouchers
Redeem Reward points against shopping mall vouchers: Sharjah Mega Mall, Dubai Festival City, Abu Dhabi Mall, Sahara Centre - Sharjah
Apply for ADIB Booking.com Infinite Card Online
Etihad Guest Infinite Credit CardFAB25003.5%3000075% Etihad Guest Miles Discount Voucher; Fast Track Enrolment to Etihad Guest Gold Membership; Complimentary Inflight Wifi Vouchers; Optional Etihad Guest Miles Accelerator;55,000 welcome Etihad Guest Miles
Domestic transactions (AED): 4.5 Miles earned per AED 10, International transactions (non-AED): 6.0 Miles earned per AED 10
Etihad or Etihad Airways partners: 9.0 Miles earned per AED 10
Balance transfer (from other bank credit cards): 2.5 Miles earned per AED 10
Apply for FAB Etihad Guest Infinite Credit Card Online
Premier Credit CardCitibank03.50%15000Complimentary Movies and Golf Offers, VoucherSkout-Signup offer, Enjoy a 12-month amazon premium membership free,
Get AED 500 worth of gift card of your choice exclusively on Soulwallet (pls refer to terms and conditions)
Earn 2 ThankYou Points per USD on international spent and 1.5 ThankYou Points per USD of local spend With ThankYou Points you have the flexibility to redeem for travel rewards, merchandise, gift vouchers and many other rewarding experiences. Transfer your ThankYou Points to 15 airline and hotel partners for flights and hotel stays.
Book flights, hotels, rental cars and holiday packages with no blackout dates for bookings
Choose from merchandise ranging from apparel to electronics to home goods and more
Apply for Citi Premier Credit Card Online
Emirates Skywards World Elite Mastercard Credit CardRAKBANK14992.45%20000Get up to 160,000 Bonus Skywards Miles, Emirates Skywards Silver Tier Status, Access to 900+ airport lounges across the world, Fast Track to Gold Tier status, 1-night free stay at Rixos JBR
Earn Emirates Skywards Miles on all spends based on spend tiers
AED 2,000 to AED 4,999 - 600 Skywards miles
AED 5,000 to AED 9,999 - 2,000 Skywards miles
AED 10,000 to AED 19,999 - 5,000 Skywards miles
AED 20,000 to AED 29,999 - 8,000 Skywards miles
AED 30,000 to AED 39,999 - 11,000 Skywards miles
AED 40,000 to AED 49,999 - 16,000 Skywards miles
AED 50,000 to AED 74,999 - 20,000 Skywards miles
AED 75,000 to AED 99,999 - 30,000 Skywards miles
AED 100,000 - 40,000 Skywards miles
Skywards Miles award will be reduced to 50% if spend in special categories (such as Charities, Government Services, Bill Payments, Schools, Transits, Transport, Telecommunication, Real Estate, Petrol/Gas stations, Supermarkets, Health & Beauty, Club Membership, Motion Pictures & Theatres, Computer Services, Automobiles Vehicles) exceeds 50% of total spends for the month.
Apply for RAKBANK Emirates Skywards World Elite Mastercard Credit Card Online
Skywards Signature Credit CardEmirates NBD7003.25%15000Best-in-class Skywards Miles earning - earn and redeem miles; Good lifestyle offers; Complimentary, unlimited worldwide lounge access; Exclusive Concierge Desk and privileges
Earn Skyward Miles per 1 USD of spend: Earn 1.5 Miles on Emirates and fly Dubai spends
Earn 1.5 Miles on duty free, online food delivery and car booking apps spends
Earn 1 Mile on International spends
Earn 0.75 Miles on Domestic spends
Apply for Emirates NBD Skywards Signature Credit Card Online

Key Tips for First time Credit Card Users
Credit cards can be outstanding tools to better your financial health. Not only can they extend you valuable credit to purchase necessary goods or services, but they can provide attractive rewards that can be used for meals and vacations.

That said, for first-time credit card users, credit cards can be intimidating. It’s easy to hear horror stories about how credit cards have destroyed an individual’s financial livelihood or have led to massive interest charges that are essentially inescapable.

Because of this, it’s worth your time to learn some first principles and key tips so that you can safely use a credit card. By following this advice, you can get the most out of your credit card and safeguard your financial health—whether you are a first-time credit card user in the UAE or anywhere else.

Some Key Tips and Strategies on Safe Credit Card Use
Before looking at any type of credit card, it is critical to ensure that you have a steady income. While credit cards can be immensely rewarding, you can only obtain those immense rewards if you can pay off your balance.

Without a steady income, it becomes difficult to pay off that credit card balance. The longer that you don’t pay off your balance, the more that you will be paying to your credit card company. Even if you are just making minimum payments, hefty interest expenses can be extremely costly. Double-digit interest rates can quickly add up. Therefore, before signing up, make sure that you will have consistent enough income to pay off your monthly statements. By doing so, you will avoid a very ugly financial situation.

Next, you want to make sure you are signing up for the right credit card. As similar as credit cards may seem, they offer different terms and rewards. You will certainly want to review your potential interest rate and any penalties that will come from late payments. Beyond the negative aspects, however, you will want to take a close look at your unique spend and your targeted credit card’s rewards.

Rewards are some of the best parts of using a credit card. All credit cards offer points that you can then exchange for rewards, but credit cards offers different exchange rates for certain things. For instance, one credit card may offer slightly more points for restaurant and dining spending and another may offer slightly more points for booking flights. You’ll want to read the fine print and sign up for a card that gives you more points for your common expenses.

Associated with this, try to avoid free credit cards. By free credit cards, we mean credit cards that do not have annual fees. This is for several reasons. For one thing, free cards may not be best from a savings perspective. They tend to have higher interest rates, so you may end up paying more if you don’t pay off your card in full. Along with this, cards with annual fees tend to offer better rewards. These cash-back rewards can be substantial and may even eclipse the amount that you pay in your card’s annual fee. While the initial payment may be annoying or frustrating, chances are that you will get much more value through a card with a fee, rather than a free card.

From avoiding free credit cards, you’ll next want to understand the eligibility requirements for your chosen card. For as great as a credit card may be for you, you may not meet its eligibility requirements. As just one simple example, in the UAE, a minimum of AED 5,000 to qualify for a credit card. However, different types of cards cater to different income segments, so you will want to read the fine print to see if you qualify. By reading the fine print now rather than waiting to do so after you submit your application, you won’t waste time and will find the best credit card for you.

You will also want to make sure that you are collecting and providing all necessary documents to complete your credit card application. This may vary depending on the credit card and application that you submit. However, you will need to provide identification documents like an Emirates ID (in the UAE), passport, and/or visa. You may also need to offer additional documents like income certificates, bank statements, payslips, and more. If you work for a small employer or a relatively new company, the bank may need to perform an employer visit or telephone verification.

What does this mean for you? Ultimately, make sure that you have this type of information at the ready. By having it in your vicinity before you start the process, you will make your life easier.

Another key tip is to avoid getting too close to your credit limit. Every credit card user has something called a credit utilization ratio. This is essentially the percentage of outstanding credit that is available to you.

There is a fine line here. The basic rule is that you should the lower your credit utilization ratio, the better. A high credit utilization ratio can harm your credit score. However, that should not stop you from responsibility using your credit card. You should follow your best judgment here and find a credit utilization ratio that meets your needs and does not harm your credit score.

Finally, be patient. While it can be tremendously exciting getting a new credit card, you don’t necessarily want to jump at the first opportunity. Make sure that you are looking at several different types of credit cards. At the very least, you should do some Internet research on those specific cards to see if one suits you over another. Also, don’t hesitate to call the specific credit card company to find answers to any questions you may have. By being patient and completing your due diligence, you can make this experience much easier.

Getting Started on Your Credit Card Journey
Getting your first credit card can be intimidating, yet exciting. There are risks but they can be mitigated. By following the tips and advice above, you will be in an excellent position to responsibly use your new credit card.

Five Reasons to Consider Doing a Balance Transfer on Your Credit Card
The sudden rise of COVID-19 has presented varying degrees of economic stress among UAE residents. Institutions like the UAE Central Bank and some of the UAE’s biggest banks have acted swiftly to relieve some of this unexpected, yet very real financial pressure. Yet even with that assistance, this is a great time for all UAE residents to take a hard look at their current finances.

There are several ways that you can proceed, but we believe that one of the first things you should do is closely look at the balances on your credit cards. For many of us, our credit card balances are some of our highest payments per month. While we may be able to pay off our monthly credit card balances during “normal times, COVID-19 this increased time of uncertainty may make those payments much more difficult.

If you are feeling this type of financial pressure, you may want to seriously consider something called a balance transfer. Balance transfers, put simply, let you move high-interest debt onto another credit card that has a lower interest rate. By doing this, you can keep some of your hard-earned money in your pocket.

To better understand the power of balance transfers, we want to highlight five reasons why you should consider them. Whether one or all of the reasons resonate with you, we believe balance transfers can be compelling options in this era of COVID-19.

The first reason to go forward with a balance transfer centers on your current credit card interest payments. Simply put, balance transfers can temporarily eliminate a high annual percentage rate on your current credit card, allowing more of your payment to go toward your principal. If you are in deep credit card debt, this is a huge deal. A significantly lower (or even zero) interest rate means that you are getting significantly closer toward a zero balance. Therefore, even if there is a small fee to complete a balance transfer, a lower APR may be worth it.

Directly tied with lower interest payments is the ability to save cash in the long run. It’s pretty simple. Allocating more of your monthly payment to your debt outstanding rather than interest is going to keep more cash in your pocket. It is a substantial step on your way toward financial freedom. A balance transfer can offer that unique opportunity, letting you have a few key months where you can make your outstanding principal more manageable.

Balance transfers can also be a great idea because they may be able to raise your credit score. The effect isn’t direct, but there are some ways that your credit score can be improved with a balance transfer. Most notably, it can reduce your credit utilization ratio. This is assuming that you don’t close your old credit card account. Along with paying off your principal, you may see a bump in your overall credit score.

Fourth, a balance transfer can help you build good habits and instill discipline. One primary reason why borrowers seek balance transfers is to obtain some breathing room from overbearing interest payments and debt. Balance transfers can provide this, but they also provide great opportunities to get into great financial habits. For instance, paying down your balance every month and spending less than you make are terrific habits to build.

Finally, credit card balance transfers can make you happier. They can provide both short-term and long-term financial relief. By capitalizing on this relief and getting a better hold over your finances, you’ll feel happier and less stressed. This is a real benefit—especially as we are living through COVID-19.

A Compelling Option
These are just some of the benefits of credit card balance transfers. Granted, you will want to read the fine print and find a balance transfer that makes the most sense for you. Some balance transfer arrangements have a low (or zero) APR, but ramp up significantly after several months or if you miss one payment.

Even so, balance transfers can be a valuable tool in personal finance. Whether or not you choose to use this tool, we encourage you to do your research. You may find that a balance transfer is just the thing you need to get your financial freedom.

Soulwallet is a personal finance comparison portal in the UAE. With a team of “out of the box” thinkers and a deep understanding of the UAE consumer banking industry, we help customers make the best choices while shopping for financial products such as credit cards and loans.

Credit cards need not be just fair weather friends!

Credit cards need not be just fair weather friends!

As we are in the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic, all of us in the UAE are taking a close look at our personal finances. Money can be tight—especially if we or a family member lost a job. These are uncertain times, and because of this, it can be helpful to think of ways to ease some of the financial pressures that we are experiencing.

One way to do this is through strategically using credit cards in UAE. The operative word, of course, is strategically. Used recklessly, credit cards can instill even more financial pain on your family. But if you carefully use some of the best cashback credit cards, you will find yourself with more hard-earned money in your pocket.

Tips on Strategically Using Credit Cards

Before describing some of the ways that credit cards can help you amidst this uncertainty, an important point must be made. That is the fact that all of these benefits and strategies are moot if you cannot make your monthly payments. Failing to make your monthly payments can result in onerous interest payments, which can be financially devastating. Even if there is a compelling signup incentive for one popular credit card or exciting purchase rewards for another, they will be for naught if you cannot pay off your bill. This is rule number one as you think about strategically using credit cards amidst COVID-19.

Now, onto the good news. Here are some of the many benefits that you can get if you strategically use credit cards:

  • Compelling credit card offers. There are plenty of credit cards out there today, including those from popular UAE banks, that offer terrific sign-up bonuses. All you’ll need to do is make a certain number of purchases within a specific timeframe to receive the bonus. For instance, with the FAB Cashback Credit Card, you can obtain AED 300 on your first retail transaction. You could theoretically make small purchases on this First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) Credit Cards and use your cashback reward for some other pressing purchases in your life.
  • Cash back rewards. Some of the best credit cards offer up to 5% cash back on certain purchases. You will want to read the fine print to determine which purchases qualify for some of the most compelling cashback offers. That said, every credit card awards you cash back or points, which can be used to redeem flights and more. To save money during this crisis, think about strategically using your cash back rewards. For instance, when you are grocery shopping, use the credit card that gives you the most cash back for your grocery purchases. Planning in advance can add some cash to your pocket.
  • Credit card offers with zero percent interest for an introductory period. Simply put, if you miss a payment during an initial zero-interest period, you won’t have to pay interest. These credit cards can be game-changers in paying down your principal, especially if you are pursuing a balance transfer. However, the introductory period doesn’t last forever. Typically, these credit cards will have a significant increase in your APR, so keep that in mind if you leverage this strategy.
  • Insurance benefits. Credit cards can go a long way in protecting you from fraud. Compared to making purchases through a debit card, it is much easier to dispute and remove unauthorized charges. No one ever likes being a victim of fraud, but the pain can be especially stark in this period of uncertainty. Ultimately, credit cards can remove some of that uncertainty by protecting your account from unauthorized purchases and other types of fraud.
  • Credit shields. Credit cards can also be helpful if they offer so-called credit shields. Credit shields are programs where you can pay a monthly fee now in exchange for future leniency if you’re unable to pay off your credit card. For instance, if you later lose your job due to COVID-19, you may be able to suspend payments and interest, keep your account in good standing in the eyes of credit bureaus, or only make minimum monthly payments. These benefits, to put it lightly, can provide an immense amount of financial relief.
  • Return protection. In this time of uncertainty, return protection can offer you some added flexibility. Essentially, it gives you extra time to return new items that you don’t want to keep. Even though a store may reject your return for not being timely, your credit card may be able to reimburse you for your purchase. For this benefit, you’ll definitely want to read the fine print. Assuming your credit card offers it, however, it can be a way to get some cash for purchases you intended to return.
  • Free credit score information. In these challenging and uncertain times, it is important to maintain a good credit score. That said, checking your credit score can be complicated. Generally speaking, it costs money to check your score. Some credit cards, however, offer this service for free, allowing you to skip these fees and get a granular look at your financial health. While the fee may not be too onerous, every dirham saved is valuable.
  • Tracking your payments. While it may not be the most exciting task, tracking your credit card purchases can be extremely insightful. You can get a granular look at your spending habits and cut back as necessary. Strategically using credit cards is all about building smart habits, so create a weekly (or monthly) practice of examining your charges. It can be extremely insightful.

Taking Control of Unique Opportunities

Credit cards can be terrific tools to build financial wealth—so long as you use them responsibly. You’ll need to be disciplined and vigilant, whether you just signed up for a popular credit card for its signup bonus or took on a zero-interest credit card for a balance transfer.

But having said this, it isn’t an impossible task. By being responsible, you can have access to a swath of rewards and cold, hard cash. Even amidst a global pandemic, this is an outstanding time to take advantage of everything that credit cards have to offer.

Soulwallet is a personal finance comparison portal in the UAE. With a team of “out of the box” thinkers and a deep understanding of the UAE consumer banking industry, we help customers make the best choices while shopping for financial products such as credit cards and personal loans in UAE.

Why You Should Use Comparison Websites Before Signing Up for a Credit Card?

Why You Should Use Comparison Websites Before Signing Up for a Credit Card?

Whether you have great credit or are working hard to improve your credit score, you undoubtedly receive plenty of credit card information or application forms in the UAE. The potential offers and rewards are often extremely compelling, whether it is extra points for eating at your favorite restaurant or travel deals that are only available to certain cardholders. Credit cards also have many different terms, and these terms can become all too real if you are behind on a payment.

Therefore, when analyzing which credit cards in UAE to pursue, it is helpful to compare all of the offers that are available to you. This is much easier said than done. However, You may find yourself placing pieces of paper side-to-side or simply choosing a credit card that your friend or sibling likes.

Luckily, there is a better way. We believe that comparison websites are a true game-changer when signing up for a credit card. These websites make it extremely easy to compare different types of credit cards, thereby making it more obvious to you when making your final decision. Everyone from the first-time credit card holder to more experienced borrowers can find immense value from credit card comparison websites.

Below, you will find several key reasons why these websites are so important in today’s financial environment.

A Clean User Interface

As referenced above, credit card comparison websites make it easier and enjoyable to compare different credit card offers. Many websites, in fact, let you place credit cards side-to-side. They make it seamless for you to compare cards’ interest rates, annual fees, join fees, and more. This side-by-side layout is more effective than you may think, as it quickly gets to the crux of why certain cards are better for you than others. Instead of spending hours sifting through the paperwork and comparing the fine print, you can get a great first glance through credit card comparison websites.

Opening Your Eyes to New Opportunities

Credit card comparison websites aren’t just for comparing credit cards that you are considering. Arguably just as valuable (or even more valuable) is the fact that you can use them to discover new credit cards. For instance, if your most important factor is a low interest rate, you may use a credit card comparison tool to find a low-interest card that you haven’t even considered yet. This is just one simple example, but the discovery nature of credit card comparison websites makes them attractive to credit card applicants.

Helping You Maximize Your Points

In the example above, we explained how credit card comparison websites can help you find low interest card cards, thereby saving you cash if you end up making a late payment. But the flip side to this, however, is that credit card comparison websites can help you maximize potential incentives. If you enjoy traveling, for instance, you can find a new credit card that caters to travelers. Moreover, the website will help you understand how you can maximize your points so that you can rack up free flights or vacations. To put it another way, these websites are your trusted guide to get the most value out of a potential credit card.

A Godsend if You Have Bad Credit

Finally, credit card comparison websites can be especially helpful if you have bad credit and are looking for a new credit card. Repairing or strengthening a credit score is always time-intensive. That said, this shouldn’t mean that you can’t find a great credit card now. Credit card comparison websites can help you with this task. They can highlight some of the most attractive options for you—considering your financial situation.

Your Secret Weapon

These are just several key reasons why credit card comparison websites are so powerful. They are simple and easy-to-use, yet extremely powerful. They can help you stumble upon key insights about your spending goals and budget. They can even be a massive assistance in helping you more quickly save up for your dream vacation.

Whatever the case may be, we encourage you to check out these websites. Spend some time reviewing both the websites themselves and the credit cards that they let you compare. In sum, we  believe that credit card comparison websites can be your secret weapon as you work toward achieving all of your financial goals.

Soulwallet is a personal finance comparison portal in the UAE. With a team of “out of the box” thinkers and a deep understanding of the UAE consumer banking industry, we help customers make the best choices while shopping for financial products such as credit cards and personal loans in UAE.