How to Check Your Credit Score in the UAE

A credit score in the United Arab Emirates is a numerical representation of an individual’s creditworthiness. This score is frequently considered by financial institutions when evaluating applications for loans, mortgages, or credit cards. Understanding and maintaining a healthy credit score is important for securing more favorable terms on credit products.

Understanding Your Credit Score in the UAE

A credit score in the UAE is a three-digit number, ranging from 300 to 900, which forecasts the likelihood of an individual making timely payments on financial obligations. A higher score signifies a lower risk to lenders, indicating responsible financial behavior.

Several factors influence this score, with payment history being the most significant component. Making timely payments on loans, credit cards, and utility bills positively impacts the score. Credit utilization, which measures the amount of credit currently used compared to the total available credit limits, also impacts the score. Maintaining a lower utilization rate, ideally below 30% of available credit, is viewed favorably.

The length of credit history also contributes, as a longer track record provides more data on borrowing behavior and can lead to a higher score. A diversified mix of credit types can positively affect the score. Frequent applications for new credit can temporarily lower the score due to multiple inquiries.

Key Providers of Credit Information in the UAE

Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) is the sole credit bureau in the United Arab Emirates, playing a central role in the nation’s financial ecosystem. It collects comprehensive financial data from banks, financial institutions, and telecommunication companies. AECB compiles this information to generate credit reports and scores, which lenders utilize to assess the creditworthiness of individuals and companies.

Information Required to Access Your Credit Report

To obtain a credit report in the UAE, individuals need specific documents and personal details for identity verification. For UAE residents, a valid Emirates ID is required for access and identity verification. Non-residents may also need a valid passport copy. A valid mobile number and email address are also required to receive the digital report. Having these details prepared in advance helps streamline the process.

Process for Obtaining Your Credit Report

Credit reports and scores can be obtained through several channels provided by Al Etihad Credit Bureau. The AECB website (aecb.gov.ae) offers an online portal where users can register, enter their Emirates ID, and complete payment using a credit or debit card. The process involves answering security questions for authentication. A credit report and score typically cost around AED 100 plus Value Added Tax (VAT) when purchased together.

The AECB mobile application, available on Google Play and Apple App Store, also provides a digital method for accessing credit information. Users can download the app, log in with their Emirates ID, select the desired report type, and make payment to receive it digitally. For in-person service, AECB customer service centers are available. Individuals provide their original Emirates ID and passport copy, and can pay using credit, debit, or eDirham cards.

Navigating Your Credit Report and Score

The AECB credit score ranges from 300 to 900. A score between 731 and 900 is considered excellent, while 680-730 is good, 620-679 is fair, and 300-619 is poor. A higher score leads to more favorable loan terms and interest rates.

The credit report includes various sections, offering a detailed overview of financial behavior. The report covers:

• Personal information
• A summary of active and closed credit accounts
• A comprehensive payment history, often spanning the last 24 months
• Credit inquiries made by lenders
• Details of any overdue payments or bounced checks

If inaccuracies are identified, individuals can dispute them by contacting the financial institution that provided the data or by submitting a data correction request directly to AECB via email or their website. AECB addresses disputes within approximately 20 working days, working with data providers to verify information.