Are you spending thousands every month on groceries, fuel, dining, or education in the UAE? What if you could get a portion of that money back automatically? That’s where cashback credit cards come in.
With dozens of options available in 2025, choosing the right one could mean the difference between minimal savings and hundreds of dirhams in monthly rewards. But with varied cashback rates, annual fees, and bonus perks, how do you find the best fit?
This blog breaks down the top 10 best cashback credit cards in the UAE, helping you compare offers, understand fine print, and align rewards with your lifestyle. Whether you’re a frequent traveller, a savvy shopper, or managing family expenses, this guide will point you in the right direction.
Why Choosing the Right Cash Back Credit Card in UAE Matters?
In a market where everyday expenses are consistently on the rise, having the right cashback credit card can significantly ease your monthly financial burden.
By aligning your spending habits with a card that offers cashback in the right categories like fuel, groceries, or education, you essentially earn money back on what you’re already spending.
The trend of using cashback cards is rapidly growing in the UAE, as banks compete to provide higher returns and lifestyle benefits to attract customers.
With multiple card options now offering flexible redemption and promotional offers, choosing a card that suits your lifestyle isn’t just a luxury, it’s a smart financial move. Whether you’re a frequent traveller or a family-focused shopper, the right cashback card can turn regular purchases into ongoing savings.
What to Look for in the Best Cash Back Credit Card in the UAE?
When selecting the best cashback credit card in the UAE, the first thing to consider is the cashback percentage and applicable spending categories. Cards that align with your monthly habits, like dining, groceries, or school fees, offer the most return.
Equally important are the card’s annual fees, interest rates, and potential hidden charges. Some cards offer fee waivers upon meeting minimum spends, which can add long-term value.
Make sure to check income eligibility to avoid rejection, especially if you’re new to credit. Lastly, evaluate added benefits such as complimentary airport lounge access, travel insurance, entertainment discounts, and balance transfer offers.
These perks can further elevate the card’s value, especially if you travel often or spend on lifestyle services. Comparing these features side-by-side is key to making an informed choice.
10 Best Cash Back Credit Cards in UAE
1. Emirates Islamic Cashback Plus Credit Card
The Emirates Islamic Cashback Plus Credit Card is a Shariah-compliant card tailored for individuals who want enhanced cashback in key everyday categories such as groceries, dining, education, and telecom.
It combines attractive cashback rates with luxury lifestyle benefits and practical features. Cardholders can enjoy unlimited airport lounge access globally, along with perks like Salik auto top-up and complimentary entry to premium women’s clubs in the UAE.
The card offers a fee waiver in the first year if the cardholder spends AED 5,000 within the first 90 days, and in the second year, the fee is waived again if the annual spend reaches AED 30,000.
With simple redemption through the mobile app or online banking, the card ensures users can efficiently track and claim their cashback rewards while enjoying a full-service credit experience.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cashback Categories | Up to 10% on groceries, education, dining, and telecom |
| Annual Fee | AED 0 for Year 1 (AED 5,000 spent within 90 days); AED 299 if annual spend < AED 30,000 |
| Interest/Profit Rate | 3.69% per month |
| Min. Spend Requirement | AED 3,000/month for max cashback rate |
| Max Cashback Limit | AED 200 per month |
| Redemption Method | Emirates Islamic Online Banking or Mobile App |
| Additional Benefits | Unlimited airport lounge access, Salik auto top-up, Dubai & Sharjah Ladies Club access |
| Income Eligibility | Not specified |
| Shariah-compliant | Yes |
| Website | emiratesislamic.ae |
2. FAB Cashback Credit Card
The FAB Cashback Credit Card is a Shariah-compliant option that provides solid cashback rates on essential categories like groceries, dining, and fashion. It is a popular choice for individuals looking for a balance between lifestyle perks and consistent cashback returns.
With no minimum spend requirement and the ability to earn up to AED 1,000 in cashback monthly, this card offers a competitive reward system.
Cardholders benefit from free global airport lounge access and instant redemption through the FAB mobile app, making it a convenient solution for frequent users.
The cashback rates are tiered to encourage targeted spending in specific categories while offering coverage on general transactions, including international purchases.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cashback Categories | 5% on groceries, dining, fashion; 3% on international spends; 1% on other spending |
| Annual Fee | AED 300 |
| Interest Rate | Flat rate of up to 3% per month (as per agreement with bank) |
| Min. Spend Requirement | AED 0 |
| Max Cashback Limit | AED 1,000/month (AED 200 each for dining, groceries, fashion) |
| Redemption Method | FAB Mobile App (in FAB Rewards) |
| Additional Benefits | Free global airport lounge access |
| Income Eligibility | AED 5,000 |
| Shariah-compliant | Yes |
| Website | bankfab.com |
3. HSBC Live+ Credit Card
The HSBC Live+ Credit Card is designed for individuals who want to earn tiered cashback rewards on common everyday expenses such as dining, fuel, groceries, and more.
With competitive cashback percentages and monthly reward cycles, it offers valuable returns for those who spend regularly across key lifestyle categories.
While the card carries an annual fee, it also provides attractive lifestyle perks including travel rewards, cinema discounts, and various retail offers.
Cashback caps reset with each billing cycle, making it ideal for consistent monthly spenders. Users can easily track and redeem their rewards via HSBC’s mobile app or online banking portal.
Although not Shariah-compliant, this card is well-suited for users looking for high cashback on essential expenses and additional entertainment benefits.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cashback Categories | 6% on dining, 5% on fuel, 2% on groceries, education & entertainment, 0.5% on other expenses. |
| Annual Fee | 0 AED for the first year and then 315.95 AED including VAT |
| Interest Rate | 44.28% APR |
| Min. Spend Requirement | AED 3,000 per month |
| Max Cashback Limit | AED 200 per billing cycle |
| Redemption Method | HSBC Online Banking or Mobile App |
| Additional Benefits | AED 500 cashback welcome offer (apply by 30 June 2025 & spend AED 6,000 in 60 days) offer valid for primary cardholders only with no HSBC credit card held in the past 6 months |
| Income Eligibility | AED 5,000 |
| Shariah-compliant | No |
| Website | hsbc.ae |
4. Mashreq Cashback Credit Card
The Mashreq Cashback Credit Card is designed for individuals seeking straightforward cashback across multiple spending categories with no annual fee. It provides consistent cashback percentages on dining, international, and local expenses, making it ideal for day-to-day use.
With no minimum spending requirements and unlimited cashback potential, it’s a preferred option for salaried individuals or frequent spenders looking for flexibility and maximum returns.
The added welcome bonus for both new and existing users gives extra value to the card. Its digital redemption method through Mashreq’s online banking platform ensures that users have a convenient experience managing their cashback rewards.
This card suits both local and international spending habits while maintaining Shariah compliance, making it appealing to a broader demographic in the UAE.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cashback Categories | 5% on dining (local & international), 1% on other international spends (from May 20, 2025), 2% to 1% on local spends |
| Other Cashback | 0.33% on government, education, utilities, fuel, telecom, rental, charity (Excludes bill payments via Mashreq Online & Mobile App) |
| Annual Fee | AED 0 |
| Interest Rate | 3.85% per month |
| Min. Spend Requirement | AED 0 |
| Max Cashback Limit | Unlimited |
| Redemption Method | Mashreq Online Banking (Min. AED 100 cashback) |
| Additional Benefits | AED 500 welcome bonus for new users (AED 5,000 spend in 2 months); AED 100 for existing cardholders |
| Income Eligibility | AED 5,000 |
| Shariah-compliant | Yes |
| Website | mashreq.com |
5. RAKBANK Titanium Credit Card
The RAKBANK Titanium Credit Card is designed for individuals who want generous cashback on dining, supermarkets, and entertainment, with no annual fee.
It offers up to 50% cashback on entertainment, which is among the highest in the UAE, along with competitive returns on other daily spends. Users must meet a minimum monthly spend requirement to qualify for cashback, making it ideal for regular card users.
Redemption is simple through the bank’s portal or customer care, with cashback credited to the card account within three working days. It also includes added perks like airport lounge access and hotel discounts, catering to those who enjoy both savings and travel benefits.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cashback Categories | Up to 5% on dining & supermarkets; 50% on entertainment |
| Annual Fee | AED 0 |
| Interest Rate | 3.65% Based on outstanding balance and customer profile |
| Min. Spend Requirement | AED 2,000/month |
| Max Cashback Limit | AED 1,500/month |
| Redemption Method | Online portal or 24/7 contact center (Min. AED 100 cashback) |
| Additional Benefits | Hotel discounts, car rental offers, airport lounge access |
| Income Eligibility | AED 8,000 |
| Shariah-compliant | No |
| Website | rakbank.ae |
6. Dubai Islamic Bank Consumer Cashback Platinum Credit Card
The Dubai Islamic Bank Prime Credit Card (also referred to as the Consumer Cashback Platinum Credit Card) is a Shariah-compliant card offering cashback on practical, everyday categories such as utility bills, school fees, and fuel.
It features a tiered cashback structure that supports higher returns for larger spenders, with a generous monthly cashback cap. The card also includes extra value with travel and medical coverage, roadside assistance, and a straightforward redemption process through the bank’s digital channels.
It is a strong option for those seeking Islamic banking principles combined with tangible cashback rewards and lifestyle protections.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cashback Categories | Up to 4% on supermarkets, fuel, utilities, school fees, car servicing, phone bills |
| Annual Fee | AED 249 |
| Interest Rate | Up to 3.69% per month |
| Min. Spend Requirement | Not specified |
| Max Cashback Limit | AED 1,000 per billing cycle |
| Redemption Method | DIB Online Banking (Wala’a rewards redemption) |
| Additional Benefits | Travel & medical insurance, roadside assistance |
| Income Eligibility | AED 15,000 |
| Shariah-compliant | Yes |
| Website | dib.ae |
7. Standard Chartered Platinum Cashback Credit Card
The Standard Chartered Platinum Cashback Credit Card is a strong choice for those who want consistent cashback on both domestic and international transactions.
With 1% cashback on local spends and 2% on international spends, it suits frequent travelers and online shoppers. The card comes with a first-year fee waiver and offers other premium perks such as airport lounge access, ride discounts, and food & beverage offers.
Cashback is capped per month, and annual fee waivers are available based on meeting annual spending thresholds. While it’s not Shariah-compliant, its benefits are designed for cardholders with varied spending patterns who also value lifestyle perks.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cashback Categories | 1% on all domestic (AED) spends, 2% on international (non-AED) spends |
| Annual Fee | AED 0 (Year 1); AED 525 from Year 2 (waived if annual spend ≥ AED 9,000) |
| Interest Rate | Not specified |
| Min. Spend Requirement | No minimum spend required |
| Max Cashback Limit | AED 1,000 per month |
| Redemption Method | Online Banking or Mobile App |
| Additional Benefits | Balance transfer at 0% interest (2% fee), unlimited airport lounge access (20+ lounges), Buy 1 Get 1 Free at Costa Coffee, 20% off 3 Careem rides/month + 1 free ride |
| Income Eligibility | AED 8,000 |
| Shariah-compliant | No |
| Website | sc.com/ae |
8. Commercial Bank of Dubai Super Saver Credit Card
The Commercial Bank of Dubai Super Saver Credit Card offers high cashback rewards in essential expense categories, making it a smart pick for families and working professionals.
With up to 10% cashback on bills, supermarket purchases, fuel, and school fees, this card is tailored for users with recurring monthly expenses.
The first year is free, and from the second year onward, a moderate annual fee applies. Cashback is redeemable once it reaches AED 50 and is directly credited to the card account, allowing for easy access to savings.
The card also includes lifestyle perks such as cinema ticket discounts and comprehensive travel insurance, offering both financial rewards and value-added benefits for everyday spending.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cashback Categories | Up to 10% on bills, school, fuel, supermarket |
| Annual Fee | Free for Year 1 and AED 400 thereafter |
| Interest Rate | 0% interest on Balance Transfer and Cash on Call (6 or 12 months) within 30 days of card issuance; one-time processing fees of 1.99% and 4% apply; regular interest rates apply beyond promotional period. |
| Min. Spend Requirement | Not specified |
| Max Cashback Limit | AED 600/month |
| Redemption Method | CBD Mobile App or Online Banking (Min. AED 50 cashback) |
| Additional Benefits | 50% off cinema tickets (valid till May 9, 2025), multi-trip travel insurance, purchase protection |
| Income Eligibility | AED 5,000 |
| Shariah-compliant | Yes |
| Website | cbd.ae |
9. ADCB TouchPoints Platinum Credit Card
The ADCB TouchPoints Platinum Credit Card allows cardholders to earn reward points instead of traditional cashback, which can be redeemed for a wide range of options such as airline miles, shopping vouchers, utility bill payments, and more.
It’s designed for individuals who want flexible redemption choices and generous lifestyle benefits. TouchPoints accumulate based on spend categories, with higher points awarded on retail and international transactions.
The card includes perks like cinema discounts, food delivery deals, and bonus rewards for high spenders. The first year’s annual fee is waived, and although the redemption value may vary, it’s ideal for users who actively manage their card usage to maximise benefits.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cashback/Points System | 1 TouchPoint per AED on retail; 0.4 TouchPoints on supermarkets, auto dealers, insurance; 0.2 TouchPoints on fuel, education, government, telecom, etc. |
| Annual Fee | AED 0 (Year 1); AED 600 from Year 2 |
| Interest Rate | 3.59% per month |
| Min. Spend Requirement | AED 5,000 per month |
| Max Cashback Equivalent | AED 2,000 per month |
| Redemption Method | Utility bills, miles (Emirates, Etihad), shopping vouchers, Salik recharge |
| Additional Benefits | Buy 1 Get 1 at VOX, 20% off Talabat, bonus points for AED 10,000+ spend |
| Income Eligibility | AED 8,000 |
| Shariah-compliant | No |
| Website | adcb.com |
10. CBI Rewards Platinum Mastercard
The Commercial Bank International (CBI) Rewards Platinum Mastercard offers cashback-style rewards in the form of cinema and lifestyle benefits. It caters primarily to entertainment seekers and frequent cinema-goers, providing 100% cashback on up to four movie tickets monthly.
The card comes with no annual fee and includes access to local cinemas, travel benefits, and rewards redemption through the CBI Rewards platform. Though cashback categories are limited, it remains an appealing option for those who value convenience and leisure-based offers.
Cardholders can also enjoy supplementary cards for family members and access to selected airport lounges, making it a versatile entry-level rewards card.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cashback Categories | 100% cashback on up to 4 cinema tickets/month (up to AED 150 cashback based on ticket, food & beverage spend) |
| Annual Fee | AED 0 |
| Interest Rate | 3.45% per month |
| Min. Spend Requirement | AED 4,000 |
| Max Cashback Limit | Not specified |
| Redemption Method | CBI Rewards website |
| Additional Benefits | Free movie tickets, airport lounge access, free supplementary cards |
| Income Eligibility | AED 15,000 |
| Shariah-compliant | No |
| Website | cbiuae.com |
Conclusion
The best cashback credit card in the UAE depends entirely on your lifestyle and spending behaviour. Cards like the Mashreq Cashback Credit Card offer simplicity and unlimited rewards, while others like FAB and HSBC Live+ deliver category-specific advantages.
If you’re focused on essentials like school fees and utilities, Emirates Islamic or DIB may be better suited. Always consider your monthly spending, required income eligibility, and the card’s extra benefits.
Cashback limits, annual fees, and hidden charges can impact your actual savings. Take time to evaluate and choose a card that not only offers cashback, but also enhances your day-to-day financial flexibility. With the right card in hand, your everyday purchases can effortlessly work for you, month after month.
FAQs
What is a cashback credit card and how does it work?
A cashback credit card rewards users with a percentage of their purchases as cash. The cashback is usually credited monthly or can be redeemed through the bank’s portal.
Is cashback automatically credited or do I need to redeem it?
Some banks credit it automatically, while others require manual redemption via online banking or mobile apps after reaching a minimum cashback threshold.
Are there any categories that typically don’t earn cashback?
Yes, government services, utility bill payments, and charity spends often earn reduced or no cashback, depending on the card’s terms.
What happens to unredeemed cashback or expired points?
Unredeemed cashback may expire if not claimed within a set period, especially on cards with points systems. It’s important to track expiry dates regularly.
Can expats in the UAE apply for cashback credit cards?
Yes, most cashback cards in the UAE are available to residents and expats, provided they meet the minimum salary and documentation requirements.
Is it possible to avoid annual fees on cashback cards?
Yes, many cards waive the first-year fee and continue to waive it if you meet minimum annual spend thresholds, usually mentioned in the card’s terms.
What should I check before applying for a cashback card?
Always review cashback caps, interest rates, fee waivers, redemption methods, and eligible spend categories to ensure the card truly fits your needs.
