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The biggest hurdle to getting a business credit card isn't always your business. Sometimes it's the lack of a credit history.
Many startups in the UAE begin operating before they've built a financial record with the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB). While that can make traditional credit cards harder to obtain, there are several ways to manage business spending as you establish your credit profile.
With SMEs making up more than 94% of businesses in the UAE, providers now offer everything from secured business credit cards to corporate cards for startups. Let us walk you through your options and explain what providers typically look for when reviewing startup applications.
What is a business credit card? or Business Credit Cards: What You Need to Know
Business expenses have a habit of piling up fast. A business credit card gives you one place to manage them all, whether you're paying for software, suppliers, travel, or digital advertising.
It keeps personal and business spending separate. Which means it's easier for you to track expenses, manage cash flow, and stay organized as your business grows.
Why do businesses need a business credit card in the UAE?
In the early days, every dirham counts. But as your business grows, so do your expenses. According to the Visa Global Back to Business Study, 82% of small businesses say accepting and managing digital payments has been critical to their growth. That's why a business credit card helps you stay on top of spending, reduce manual work, and build smarter financial habits.
Check out some of its biggest benefits:
- Cleaner bookkeeping: Keep business and personal expenses separate, making accounting and tax preparation much simpler.
- Better expense control: Issue employee cards, set spending limits, and track company expenses in one place.
- Improved financial visibility: See where your money is going, helping you make better budgeting and cash flow decisions.
- A stronger financial profile: Responsible use of business financial products can support the financial track record of your company over time.
The more clients you take on, the busier your business gets. The last thing your team needs is to spend that extra time chasing receipts and reimbursements. A business credit card thus takes care of the admin, so your team can focus on growing the business.
Business credit cards in the UAE: Credit checks and eligibility
When you're starting, it's tempting to use a personal credit card for business expenses, as it feels convenient.
However, hassle enters the scene when your company grows. Sooner or later, you, like most businesses, will have to switch to a business credit card or another business payment solution to gain better financial visibility and control.
The next question, of course, is whether your startup will qualify.
Can you get a credit card in the UAE without a credit bureau check?
If you're specifically looking for a business credit card without a credit check, you must know that most UAE banks carry out some form of credit assessment before approving an application. For those who are unaware, the official credit bureau of the United Arab Emirates is the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB), which provides credit information that banks use to evaluate lending decisions.
Getting a credit card without an Etihad bureau check is a bit of a challenge. However, a limited credit history doesn't automatically mean your application will be rejected.
When reviewing an application, lenders typically consider:
- Credit history: Information from the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB).
- Business credentials: Your trade license, company registration, and business activity.
- Financial profile: Revenue, bank statements, or expected business turnover, depending on the provider.
- Banking relationship: Existing accounts or previous banking history may also be taken into account.
No credit history? Don't rule yourself out and explore other options
A traditional business credit card isn't the only way to manage business spending. Depending on your startup's stage, a secured business card, corporate business card, or prepaid business card could be a better fit. The trick is knowing which one suits your business best. Let's explore your options.
Small business credit card or corporate card: Which option fits your startup best?
As your business moves to different growth timelines, your payment needs will change, too. For instance, many startups begin with a prepaid or corporate card before moving to a traditional business credit card once they have built a stronger financial track record.
Here's a quick comparison to help you understand the differences between business credit cards and corporate cards and decide which one is right for you.
What do I need to apply?
Approval typically depends on factors like your business activity, financial profile, and the provider's eligibility criteria.
To apply, you will typically need:
- A valid UAE trade license or business registration
- Emirates ID and other identity documents
- Company bank statements or proof of business income, where required
- Any additional documents requested by your provider
Individual corporate cards: A simpler alternative for startups
Not every business needs a traditional business credit card.
If you're a sole proprietor, freelancer, startup founder, or small business owner looking to separate business and personal spending, an individual corporate card can be a practical alternative.
Unlike traditional business credit cards, individual corporate cards are issued to employees or business owners, providing the company with complete visibility into spending. Depending on the provider, you can set spending limits, issue separate cards for team members, and track every transaction in real time.
They're a great fit for startups that haven't qualified for a business credit card yet, but want to move away from reimbursements, shared cards, and manual expense tracking.
Finding the right fit
Picking a business payment solution isn't about finding the "best" card. It's about finding the right one for where your startup is today.
While traditional business credit cards remain the go-to choice for most companies, startups with little or no credit history can also look into secured, corporate, or prepaid cards, depending on their needs. As your team grows, so do the receipts, approvals, and expense reports.
If your spreadsheets, receipts, and manual approvals have started piling up, corporate cards with automated spend management platforms like Alaan can help you manage your business spend like you are the boss!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a startup get a business credit card in the UAE?
Yes. In the UAE, many banks and fintech providers offer business payment solutions for new startups. Eligibility depends on factors such as your business profile, financials, and the provider's requirements.
Do all business credit cards require a credit check?
Most traditional business credit cards follow credit assessment procedures. If you don't qualify, secured, prepaid, or corporate cards may be options to explore.
Can freelancers or sole proprietors apply?
Yes. Self-employed professionals with a valid UAE trade license or business registration may be eligible, depending on the provider's criteria.
What documents do I need to apply?
Most providers require a valid trade license, Emirates ID, company bank statements, or proof of business income, along with any additional documents requested during the application process.
