Credit Cards Guides

Is your morning cuppa joe becoming an expensive ritual to keep up with? Here are some handy hacks to help you cut down on your coffee expenses. Read More
From the part 1 of this 2 part series, I spoke about how an expired credit card can be charged and the amount transferred to the new credit card. And all this without card owner’s consent. Read more Our team spoke to some of... Read More
Your credit card should not be used or charged if it is expired or blocked. We look into a few cases where it has happened and try to understand why banks in the UAE are allowing transactions on invalid cards... Read More
Are you unknowingly causing a dip in your credit score? With multiple factors affecting your credit report, ignoring some of the lesser-known ones can ultimately hurt your creditworthiness. Here's how... Read More
Did you know that your credit card has a big role to play in determining your credit score? Find out how it can impact your creditworthiness, both positively as well as negatively. Read More
2020 isn't a long way away now. How about making some energy-saving New Year resolutions? We explain how you can cut back on your electricity and water usage, and save on your DEWA bills. Read More
It's that time of year again. As we soak in the festive spirit, there's bound to be a universally stressful task waiting to be ticked off on all our to-do lists - The gifts! We explore why the humble 'gift card' may be your best bet in this department. Read More
We may have just found the most efficient way to get out of debt! The 'Debt Avalanche' debt-repayment strategy can help you cut your interest costs and repay your debts faster. Find out how... Read More
In a rush to become debt-free, are you unknowingly taking shortcuts? Certain mistakes can be detrimental to your current as well as future financial well-being. Here are seven traps to steer clear of on your path to debt repayment. Read More
With Coronavirus related lay offs and salary cuts set to impact lives, how are banks stepping up to support customers? And what steps can you take to get back on your feet? Read More
Whether you're busy or simply lazy, there's no denying the convenience offered by on-demand grocery delivery apps. Here's a look at some of the most popular grocery shopping apps in Dubai. Read More
Leaving the UAE? The process of moving out can be a rather complicated one. From cancelling your visa to sorting your financial affairs, here's everything you need to take care of to be able to exit the UAE with zero hassle. Read More
The Souqalmal team brings innovation to the insurance industry, with an aim to support residents reeling under the financial impact of the Covid-19 crisis Read More
Ramadan 2020 is going to be different, no doubt. Will social distancing and lockdown restrictions dampen the spirit of Ramadan? We take a look at how you can make best of the situation... Read More
Coronavirus-linked online scams are popping up everywhere. With people losing millions to scammers across the world, we take a look at some of the most notorious online scams and how you can avoid them. Read More
Worried about how you're going to afford your kids' school fees amid this crisis? Help has finally arrived in the form of interest-free installment plans and fee reductions. Read More
The UAE Central Bank has just announced a financial stimulus program to support the country's economy and banking system. Here's what this means for you. Read More
Do you enjoy the convenience of paying with your debit card or look forward to earning bonus rewards with your credit card? Or do you prefer to simply transact with cash? We take a look at all these three payment methods to help you choose the right mix for... Read More
Eating healthy on a budget - Yes, it's possible! We share some tips, hacks and ways you can enjoy a healthy diet without splurging. Read More
How can you use your credit cards to save on travel expenses? Besides the obvious air miles benefit, we explore a number of other travel hacks - All thanks to your credit card! Read More
Are you struggling with managing money? Social media could be the culprit. Find out how you can avoid social media's negative influence on your financial happiness. Read More
We’re a generation of customers that want things NOW. Food, cabs, entertainment… even credit cards! Instant approvals for credit cards are changing the game, here's how... Read More
Most of us talk about our financial resolutions for the new year, but how many of us actually stay on track to achieve these? Here are a few tips and tricks to help you make your money resolutions stick in 2020. Read More
Have you heard of the famous 'KonMari' tyding method made popular by decluttering expert and TV personality - Marie Kondo? We figure out how this method can be applied to organizing your finances. Read More
Do you want to take your goal of 'staying fit' seriously this year? Getting the right gym membership is a great first step! Here’s what some of the most coveted gym memberships in Dubai will get you. Read More
Want to take a break from retail therapy and do your bank account some good? We explore the 'No Spend Days' budgeting technique and help you figure out whether it's a hit or miss. Read More
Confused about which water delivery service to choose? We take a closer look at the various options available across the market to help make your decision easier. Read More
Looking for a travel rewards credit card that doesn't disappoint? We've ranked top-notch Skywards Miles linked cards that get you free flight tickets, upgrades and a bunch of other perks on Emirates Airlines! Read More
Who doesn't like a good deal? And for UAE residents looking for discounts on dining, entertainment, and much more - Options are aplenty! We stack top discount apps against each other to see which one stands out the most. Read More
For movie buffs, the only thing better than buying tickets to the cinema is buying them at a discount. And the bargain popcorn is a bonus too! Here's how you can save on your next movie outing. Read More
Are you aware of how to lodge a complaint with the UAE Central Bank? Souqalmal.com details the process and the conditions related to lodging your grievances with the country's financial regulator. Read More
It’s that time of the year again – the most awaited Friday Sales and the highlight of every bargain hunter’s calendar take place this weekend. We put together a guide to help you make the best of Friday promotions. Read More
The UAE Cabinet has just passed a federal law that's going to protect struggling borrowers from jail time and prosecution. Here's all you need to know about the new financial insolvency law and what it means for you. Read More
After being cooped up indoors for the better part of the year, it’s finally time to turn off that air conditioning and head out. Here are some affordable ways to help you make the most of the season. Read More
The concept of 'Credit Shield' is often surrounded by many misconceptions. Find out exactly how the credit shield feature can benefit you and whether it is worth shelling out a few hundred Dirhams for. Read More
We sought out and rounded up the top meal delivery subscriptions available in the UAE with their unique offerings and features. Scroll ahead to find out which could be the one for you. Read More
Being a first-time parent can be overwhelming. For starters, there's so much stuff you need to buy to prepare for the baby's arrival. Here's a shopping guide to help you figure out everything you need for your newborn and where to find it in the UAE. Read More
Whether you're looking to stream a sporting event on the go or binge watch the latest series - Video streaming platforms have made certain we get our TV dose on our terms. Let's see how the UAE's top 10 video streaming services stack up against each other. Read More
Grocery purchases can run into several thousands of dirhams annually. That's a huge expense, isn't it? What if you owned a credit card that could save you thousands on your annual grocery bills? We've shortlisted some great options for you right here. Read More
Just last month, the UAE Central Bank followed in the US Fed's footsteps to cut its key lending rate. How has this impacted borrowers and savers in the country? Here's a simple explanation of what this big move means for YOU. Read More
Looking for a credit card that offers a top-notch air miles program and a host of other travel benefits? We've shortlisted some great options for you right here... Read More
With school fees in the UAE being at their highest ever, what are the options available for parents looking to ease the burden of school fees? Read More
Are you looking for a free-for-life credit card that doesn't skimp on benefits? Souqalmal.com has shortlisted five credit cards that come with zero annual fee, and still offer multiple features, unique discounts and a high reward-earning potential. Read More
Cashback is one of the most sough-after credit card features and for good reason - Wouldn't you love earning back thousands of Dirhams on your credit card purchases? We've shortlisted some top-notch cashback credit cards for you right here! Read More
Online banking has transformed in a big way. You can now do so much more with it - Pay utility bills, make instant remittances, create savings goals, customize your online banking experience and lots more! Read More
Have you been using the same credit card for years? What if this credit card isn't the right one for you? We list five reasons why it may make sense to switch to a new credit card. Read More
Debt cycle, debt trap, debt spiral - Call it what you may, being stuck with never-ending debt is a stressful experience. Souqalmal.com explains how you can escape a debt cycle and earn back your financial freedom. Read More
Have you ever come across a credit card hold, or witnessed a portion of your credit limit blocked off? Souqalmal.com demystifies the concept and explains how credit card holds actually work. Read More
Are you constantly struggling to keep up with your financial commitments? You may be financially overextended without even realizing it. We list the telltale signs and risks associated with being overextended and what positive changes you should make in order to regain control over your finances. Read More
Two, three or more credit cards - Is it a good idea to own more than one? Souqalmal.com explains why and how having more than one credit card can actually be financially beneficial for you. Read More
We're all so dependent on our banks - For bank accounts, debit and credit cards, loans and much more. Have you ever wondered how your bank makes money? We list and explain the different revenue streams that allow banks to thrive. Read More
The UAE Central Bank revealed the top five issues faced by banking customers in its 2018 annual report. Souqalmal.com spells out the implications of these concerns on UAE bank customers. Read More
Credit cards have made our lives a lot easier, but for the impulsive spender in most of us, things can easily get out of hand. Here are five effective way to curb overspending and beat the lure of easy money. Read More
Move over online banking and branch banking - There's a brand new banking channel up for grabs! Here's all you need to know about Emirates NBD's new WhatsApp Banking proposition. Read More
Are you telling yourself little lies to justify your debt situation and make yourself feel better? It's time to stop and take an honest look at what's keeping you in debt and how to beat it. Read More
Want to get a handle on your finances, but find 'budgeting' incredibly boring? We've shortlisted five of the coolest mobile apps that'll put a whole new spin on the dreaded 'B' word! Read More
Scammers are becoming more creative, but you can outsmart them by being cautious and identifying red flags. Find out how to keep your sensitive bank information safe from fraud attempts. Read More
Tired of scraping by and running your account balance to zero at the end of every month? Escape the paycheck-to-paycheck routine and make financial stability a reality for yourself and your family. We've got some ideas that can help you. Read More
Are you an online shopping addict? Wouldn't you love to pay less for that shopping cart you just filled up? Here are seven smart ways you can save big bucks and score great deals online. Read More
Wondering what to do now that your outstanding debt has been rolled over to a debt collection agency? Here are some tips to help you deal with collection agents tactfully and get rid of your debts successfully. Read More
Have you made up your mind about closing your credit card account? Canceling a credit card takes more than just a pair of scissors. Here's a step-by-step guide to successfully ending a credit card relationship. Read More
The holiday season is all about celebrating with family and friends. And even though budgeting may be the last thing you want to discuss at this time, it can ensure that the good times continue even after the party is over. Read More
The UAE Central Bank has just raised its key policy rate the fourth time this year. Souqalmal.com explains what this means for the average UAE resident's personal finances. Read More
Instances of identity theft are on the rise as we increasingly rely on our computers and mobile devices. Souqalmal.com explains the importance of exercising caution when dealing with personal financial information. Read More
Debt repayment is as much a psychological undertaking as it is a financial one. The 'Debt Snowflake' technique can help slowly chip away at your debt and keep you motivated. Find out how it can be a game changer for your finances. Read More
Reviewing your credit report and credit score is now going to be easier than ever - You can now access these details through an app! Here's all you need to know about using the Credit Bureau's latest service. Read More
Do you always leave the mall with more than you intended to buy, and a wallet that's lighter than you intended it to be? You're not alone! Find out what tactics retailers use to trick you into buying more. Read More
No credit cardholder is immune to credit card fraud. But a prompt response and clear understanding of how to dispute fraudulent transactions can save the day! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to handle credit card fraud in the UAE. Read More
Feeling lucky? Your bank account or credit card could get you a lot more than you can imagine! Read on for the latest scoop on the most attractive bank offers and promotions in the UAE that are sure to catch your attention. Read More
Using your credit or debit card abroad? Beware of the conversion trap called 'Dynamic Currency Conversion'. We explain how it works and why paying in Dirhams could end up being a costly mistake for you. Read More
With credit card companies in neck and neck competition to grab new customers, it is crucial for the average consumer to understand what’s really behind the marketing hype. Souqalmal.com works out whether the offers, deals and discounts on UAE credit cards are all they’re made out to be. Read More
Souqalmal.com reveals what’s really behind three of the most common credit card advertisement and marketing hooks. Read More
Credit Card Reward programs are banks’ way of enticing customers to sign up. But are they as rewarding as they are made out to be? Read More
With low interest rates and the prospect of debt consolidation, balance transfer can prove to be a potential debt lifesaver. Souqalmal.com outlines how to use balance transfer to your best advantage. Read More
Banks across the UAE offer exclusive privileges to credit card holders and exciting deals on new credit card applications during Ramadan. Here is our pick of the top credit card deals on the market. Read More
We’ve prepared a checklist so you don’t miss out on any of these important must-dos before leaving the UAE Read More
Constantly not paying your Credit Card outstanding in time? Here are the consequences of having a credit card debt in the UAE Read More
We’ve shortlisted four simple ways your credit card can turn into your ally and save you more money. Read More
Credit cards offering travel insurance coverage could potentially save you thousands of dirhams on your next trip.Here's how! Read More
Bills are boring, but there's no ignoring them! So how can you make the monthly ritual of bill payment a breeze? Here are some ideas to help you stay on top of your bills. Read More
Up to your neck in debt? As intimidating as it may sound, approach your bank for a solution. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you negotiate a repayment plan with your bank. Read More
Think it's easy to be an adult?.. But are you navigating the world of grown up finance with the same ease? Make 'adulting' a cakewalk with these tips to secure your financial future. Read More
Up to your neck in debt? As intimidating as it may sound, approach your bank for a solution. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you negotiate a repayment plan with your bank. Read More
Follow these simple steps to make sure your credit card is closed correctly, without any inconvenience or future disappointments. Read More
Total personal debt in the UAE is a whopping AED 350 billion. How much of it is your share? Souqalmal.com's latest survey evaluates the debt situation in the country and how residents are coping with it. Read More
Digital wallets and contactless payments are all the talk these days. Here we take a look at how UAE banks, telecom companies and payment service providers are adopting the cashless card-less trend. Read More
We constantly hear or read about expats struggling with debt in the UAE. How can you avoid becoming the next victim? Here are three common debt traps that you should steer clear of. Read More
Considering making the minimum payment on your credit card this month? Here's why that could be worst financial mistake you could make... Read More
Whether you’re getting your first credit card or adding more plastic to your wallet – Here are eight questions you want answered before you fill out the form. Read More
You can save money with credit cards in more ways than one. Here we explore the top five most popular credit card benefits that will definitely save you some big bucks. Read More
We take an in-depth look at how a credit card transaction comes to completion, and the key players involved in ensuring this, right from the moment you swipe your card or make an online purchase. Read More
A few banks in the UAE do let their customers exceed their credit limits up to a certain point. But there are costs involved. Read More
While traveling, using your card could be much safer than carrying around large bundles of foreign currency. We put together some useful tips to managing your card for travel purposes and protecting yourself from any kind of fraud. Read More
While most of us are familiar with personal credit cards, for the owner of an SME, a business credit card is a slightly different concept. Read More
Credit card holders need to keep an eye out for credit card cash withdrawal fees when taking money out of the ATM either at home or abroad. Read More
A type of cover called Credit Shield, which is generally sold as an extra with your card for a monthly fee, offers valuable protection. Issuers claim it will clear the outstanding balance on your card following an unforeseen event, such as death or permanent disability – but, based on... Read More
More and more UAE residents are shopping online – but many more are still nervous about their credit card safety and the security of online shopping. A lot of banks offer valuable extra services to protect you against credit card fraud; here are some you may have overlooked.  1.... Read More
To avoid any surprises when you receive your bill at the end of the month, here is all you need to know about foreign exchange fees. Read More
If you're looking for a new credit card, banks will dazzle you with an array of rewards or cashback offers.. We help you decide what's best. Read More
Paying for big ticket items on an Easy Payment Plan has become common practice in the region. But how do the plans work and what are the pitfalls? We find out. You are in the mall and you spy a new television, laptop or a dazzling engagement ring for... Read More