Credit cards have become a normal part of life in the UAE. Banks offer them exciting rewards and benefits. Shopping malls promote special discounts for cardholders. Many people carry multiple cards in their wallets these days.
But an important question comes up: how many credit cards should a person actually have? Is there a limit that crosses into “too many”?
This blog explores the right number of credit cards for UAE residents and how to manage them smartly.
How Many Credit Cards Can Someone Have?
There is no legal limit on the number of credit cards a person can own in the UAE. Banks will issue multiple cards as long as the applicant meets the income requirements and has a good credit history.
However, just because someone can have ten cards does not mean they should.
Most financial experts recommend keeping things simple. Having 2-3 credit cards works well for most people. This number provides enough flexibility without creating management problems.
Benefits of Having Multiple Credit Cards
Better reward options. Different cards provide different benefits. One card might offer great cashback on groceries, while another gives amazing air miles for travel. Having both allows people to get the best deal for different types of spending.
Improved credit utilization ratio. Credit scores consider how much available credit is being used. If someone has one card with a 10,000 AED limit and spends 8,000, that is 80% utilization (not favorable). With two cards having 10,000 each and the same 8,000 spending, the utilization drops to 40% (much better for credit health).
Expense separation. Many people prefer keeping business and personal expenses separate. Using different credit cards for each category makes tracking easier, especially during tax season.
When Multiple Cards Create Problems
Difficult payment tracking. Each card comes with a different payment due date. Missing one payment results in late fees and penalties. Repeated missed payments damage the credit score significantly. Many people struggle to remember which card bill is due when.
Overspending temptation. More cards mean more available credit. This creates an illusion of having more money than what actually exists. People can quickly end up carrying debt on multiple cards and paying high interest rates.
Higher debt exposure. Banks in the UAE check the total credit exposure when someone applies for loans. Even unused credit card limits can make it harder to get approved for home loans or car loans. This affects major financial decisions.
Annual fees accumulate. Many premium credit cards charge yearly fees. Having five cards could mean paying 2,000-3,000 AED annually just in fees. This money goes out without providing value if the cards are not being used actively.
Warning Signs of Having Too Many Cards
- Cannot remember all the cards owned
- Regularly misses payment deadlines
- Pays annual fees on rarely used cards
- Needs a spreadsheet to track all cards
- Uses one card to pay off another card
- The wallet becomes too thick to carry comfortably
Making the Decision
Choosing the right number of credit cards comes down to honest self-assessment. People who are organized, disciplined with money, and understand financial products can handle more cards successfully.
Those who struggle with budgeting, often forget payment dates, or tend to overspend should stick with fewer cards.
There is no shame in having just one credit card. In fact, managing one card perfectly is much better than mismanaging five cards.
