Managing credit card debt in the UAE can quickly become stressful, especially with high-interest rates (often ranging from 28% to 40% annually) and the strict monitoring of the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB).
Many expats and residents worry that clearing or consolidating their debt will automatically drop their AECB score. The good news? If done correctly, you can clear your credit card debt while keeping your AECB credit score safe—or even improving it.
Here is a practical, step-by-step guide to paying off your UAE credit card debt without triggering red flags on your credit report.
Key Summary: Debt Clearance vs. AECB Score Impact
Strategy | Risk to AECB Score | Best Used For |
0% Balance Transfer (BT) | Very Low | Cardholders with active credit limits & stable income |
Personal Debt Consolidation Loan | Low to Moderate | High balances across multiple cards with high APR |
Restructuring Plan with Bank | Moderate | Temporary financial hardship or job loss |
Debt Settlement | Waiver | High (Marks “Settled” | Extreme emergency / near-default situations |