Maximizing Cashback Rewards Credit Card UAE

Are you looking to make the most out of your credit card spending in the UAE? Maximizing cashback rewards is easier than you think, but it requires a strategic approach. With the right tips and tools, you can turn everyday purchases into significant savings.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about maximizing cashback rewards with credit cards in the UAE.

What Are Cashback Credit Cards?

Cashback credit cards are designed to reward users with a percentage of their spending back in the form of cash or statement credits.

For example, if your card offers 1.5% cashback , you’ll earn AED 15 for every AED 1,000 spent. These rewards are typically credited to your account monthly or annually, depending on the card’s terms.

Unlike travel rewards or points-based systems, cashback is straightforward and flexible. You can use it to reduce your credit card bill, deposit into your bank account, or even redeem for gift cards.

Types of Cashback Credit Cards in the UAE

To maximize your rewards, it’s essential to understand the different types of cashback cards available:

1. Flat-Rate Cashback Cards

These cards offer a consistent cashback rate across all purchases. For example:

  • Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card : Earns 2% cashback on all purchases.
  • Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card : Offers 1.5% cashback on every transaction.

✅ Pros

  • ✔️ Simple earning structure
  • ✔️ No need to track categories or activate bonuses

❌ Cons

  • ❗ Lower earning potential compared to tiered or rotating category cards

2. Tiered Category Cashback Cards

These cards provide higher cashback rates in specific spending categories like groceries, fuel, or dining. Examples include:

  • Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express : Earn 3% cashback at U.S. supermarkets (up to AED 6,000 annually), 3% at gas stations , and 1% on other purchases .
  • ADCB Etihad Guest Infinite Credit Card : Earn 1 mile per USD spent locally and 1.25 miles internationally .

✅ Pros

  • ✔️ Higher rewards in common spending categories
  • ✔️ Opportunity to strategize for maximum earnings

❌ Cons

  • ❗ Spending caps limit your rewards in top categories
  • ❗ Requires planning to align spending with bonus categories

3. Rotating Category Cashback Cards

These cards offer 5% cashback in rotating categories that change quarterly. Popular examples include:

  • Discover it® Cash Back : Earn 5% cashback in categories like restaurants, grocery stores, or gas stations (activation required).
  • Chase Freedom Flex® : Offers 5% cashback on travel booked through Chase and 3% on dining and drugstores .

✅ Pros

  • ✔️ High earning potential in popular categories
  • ✔️ Great for users who can adapt to changing rewards

❌ Cons

  • ❗ Requires activation each quarter
  • ❗ Categories may not always align with your spending habits

4. Choose-Your-Own-Category Cashback Cards

These cards allow you to select your preferred bonus categories. Examples include:

  • Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card : Choose from categories like gas, dining, or travel to earn 3% cashback .
  • Citi Custom Cash® Card : Automatically earns 5% cashback in your highest spending category each billing cycle.

✅ Pros

  • ✔️ Tailored rewards to match your lifestyle
  • ✔️ No need to track rotating categories

❌ Cons

  • ❗ Spending caps apply to bonus categories
  • ❗ Limited time frames for choosing categories

How to Maximize Cashback Rewards in the UAE

Now that you know the types of cashback cards available, here are actionable strategies to maximize your rewards:

1. Understand Your Spending Habits

Analyze your monthly expenses to identify where you spend the most. If you frequently shop at supermarkets or dine out, choose a card that offers higher cashback in those categories.

2. Combine Multiple Cards

Using multiple cards strategically can help you earn more rewards. For example:

  • Use the ADCB Talabat Card for food delivery to earn 35% cashback .
  • Pair it with the ENBD Duo Card for groceries, utilities, and fuel to earn 5% cashback .

3. Leverage Welcome Bonuses

Many cards offer generous welcome bonuses for new cardholders. For instance:

  • The FAB Abu Dhabi Titanium Card offers 25% extra FAB Rewards for spending in Abu Dhabi.
  • The Mashreq Cashback Card provides a 20% welcome bonus on Talabat orders up to AED 50.

4. Use Cashback Apps

Pair your credit card with cashback apps like Rakuten , ShopCash , or Zomato to double-dip on rewards. For example:

  • Use ShopCash to earn up to 10% cashback on Amazon purchases while using your credit card.
  • Redeem Zomato Gold discounts alongside your card’s cashback.

5. Optimize for Rotating Categories

If you have a rotating category card, stay updated on the current categories and activate them promptly. For example:

  • Use the Discover it® Cash Back Card during quarters when it offers 5% cashback on grocery stores or gas stations.

6. Pay Bills Strategically

Some cards offer cashback on utility payments or government services. For instance:

  • The ADIB Cashback Card offers 4% cashback on utilities, making it ideal for paying DEWA or Etisalat bills.

7. Avoid Overspending

While it’s tempting to chase rewards, remember that carrying a balance negates the benefits of cashback. Always pay your bill in full to avoid interest charges.

Real-Life Tips from UAE Users

Here are some tried-and-tested strategies shared by Reddit users:

  1. Top Up Talabat Wallet
    • Use the ADCB Talabat Card to top up your Talabat wallet in 10 separate transactions of AED 100 each. This ensures you earn the maximum AED 350 cashback per month.
  2. Split Bills for Higher Rewards
    • When dining out, split your bill into two payments to maximize cashback. For example, paying AED 200 in two AED 100 transactions can earn you AED 70 instead of AED 35.
  3. Use Tabby for Extended Cashback
    • Pay traffic fines or large expenses through Tabby using the SIB Cashback Card to earn 10% cashback on amounts exceeding the AED 3,000 monthly cap.
  4. Bundle Loyalty Programs
    • Combine credit card rewards with loyalty programs like Marriott Bonvoy or Emirates Skywards to earn both cashback and points simultaneously.

Best Cashback Credit Cards in the UAE % Comparasion

Conclusion: Start Maximizing Your Cashback Today

Maximizing cashback rewards in the UAE is all about understanding your spending patterns, choosing the right card, and leveraging additional tools like cashback apps and loyalty programs. By following the strategies outlined in this guide, you can significantly boost your savings and enjoy the full benefits of your credit card.

Ready to take action? Review your current credit cards, explore new options, and start implementing these tips to make every dirham count!

FAQs About Maximizing Cashback Rewards Credit Card UAE

Q1: Can I use multiple cashback cards simultaneously?


Yes! Using multiple cards tailored to different spending categories can help you maximize rewards.

Q2: Are there any hidden fees with cashback cards?


Some cards may have annual fees or spending caps. Always read the terms and conditions before applying.

Q3: How do I redeem my cashback rewards?


Most cards allow you to redeem cashback as statement credits, bank deposits, or gift cards. Check your card’s redemption options for details.

By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of maximizing cashback rewards in the UAE. Happy spending—and saving!

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