At Cardwisechoice, we make it easy to get a virtual credit card in the UAE — no branch visits, no long waits. Our UAE virtual credit card is issued online in minutes, giving you instant access to a secure card number you can use right away. Whether you shop online, pay for subscriptions, or send payments abroad, our VCC works wherever Visa is accepted.
Our prepaid card UAE options are built for online shoppers, freelancers, and businesses who want control over their spending. Use it as a prepaid travel card UAE when booking flights and hotels, or as a prepaid debit card UAE for everyday online purchases. Every virtual card comes with built-in fraud protection — your real bank details stay private. Unlike a traditional credit card in UAE, there's no credit check and no hidden fees. We also offer a Visa prepaid card UAE that works with major global platforms. Ready to pay smarter? Apply online today and get your card instantly.
How to Get Your CardWiseChoice Virtual Card Instantly
Step-1. Sign Up in Minutes
Create your CardWiseChoice account online. No paperwork. No long forms. No waiting.
Step-2. Get Your Virtual Card Instantly
Your virtual card is ready right away. No approvals. No delays. Just instant access.
Once issued, your virtual card is active right away. You can see the 16-digit card number, CVV, and expiry date in the app and start paying instantly.
Step-3. Pay Anywhere Right Away
Use your card online for subscriptions, ads, or everyday spending. It works in the UAE and beyond.
Available Virtual Card Options You Can Choose From
Best for everyday online payments. This Visa Standard card is a solid option if you want a simple, reloadable card that works across most platforms.
👉 Visa Standard category
👉 Reloadable virtual card
👉 One-time card issue fee: $5 (activation required)
👉 Price: $120 USD
Best for platforms that prefer US-issued cards. This Mastercard is issued under a USA debit BIN, which helps with acceptance on many global platforms and services.
👉 Mastercard virtual card
👉 USA debit BIN 527520
👉 Reloadable
👉 One-time card issue fee: $5 (activation required)
👉 Price: $100 USD
Best for higher spend and US-based merchants. This Visa card is issued in the US and works well for online payments that check card.
👉 Visa virtual card
👉 USA debit BIN 434769
👉 Reloadable
👉 One-time card issue fee: $5 (activation required)
👉 Price: $150 USD
Top Virtual Card Providers in the UAE: Cardwisechoice Comparison
At Cardwisechoice, we help you compare virtual card options in the UAE in one clear view. We look at card type, fees, salary needs, Emirates ID rules, instant issue, rewards, spend controls, app quality, and who each card fits best. Some bank cards need salary transfer and full KYC. Some fintech cards offer fast sign-up, low fees, and quick issue. We break it down so you can pick what fits your pay, spend style, and goals — without the guesswork.
Bank-Issued Virtual Credit Cards in the UAE
Major banks like FAB, Emirates NBD, HSBC UAE, American Express UAE, Mashreq, Ajman Bank, and ADCB offer digital card access through their apps. Most give a virtual version of an approved credit card, not a stand-alone card. That means you need income proof and an Emirates ID. Approval can take time. Rewards are strong, but fees may apply. These cards are best for salaried users who want points, miles, and high limits.
Fintech & Prepaid Virtual Card Providers in the UAE
Fintech options like Pemo, Mashreq NeoPay, YAP, FAB Prepaid, and Botim Prepaid Card focus on speed and ease. Many offer low or zero fees, no salary transfer, and quick issue after ID check. Some are prepaid, so you load funds first. They suit freelancers, small firms, and users who want tight spend control and fast setup.
Eligibility and Requirements to Get a Virtual Card in the UAE
Getting a virtual card in the UAE is easier than most people think — but the rules differ depending on the card type. Here's exactly what you need.
Requirements for Bank-Issued Virtual Credit Cards
Banks have set rules: Meet them and you're in. Miss one and your app gets rejected. Know what they check before you apply.
Emirates ID: Every UAE bank requires a valid Emirates ID. No exceptions. Without it, you cannot open a credit account.
Minimum Salary: Most banks start at AED 5,000/month. A few go as low as AED 3,000. Your salary decides which cards you can access.
Salary Transfer: Some banks require you to move your monthly salary into their account. Others don't. This one detail can make or break your approval.
Credit Bureau Check: Banks pull your Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) report. A clean record helps. Missed payments or defaults hurt your chances.
Employment Type: Salaried employees get the easiest approvals. Self-employed and freelancers face more steps — expect to show bank statements or a trade license.
Visa Status: You need a valid UAE residency visa. Tourist or visit visas are not accepted by banks for credit card applications.
Requirements for Prepaid and Fintech Virtual Cards
No salary? No credit history? No problem. Prepaid and fintech cards skip most of the bank rules.
Emirates ID or Passport: Most fintech providers accept your Emirates ID. Some, like Wise, also accept a passport — which means tourists and new arrivals can apply too.
No Minimum Salary: You don't need to earn a set amount. There's no salary bar to clear. Anyone with a valid ID can apply.
No Credit Check: Our Prepaid cards don't involve borrowing, so there's no credit bureau check. Your past financial history doesn't matter here.
KYC Verification: You'll go through a quick identity check — usually a selfie and ID scan through the app. It takes a few minutes, not days.
Account Funding: To activate and use your card, you load money onto it first. No balance, no spending. It's a simple pay-as-you-go setup.
Residency Flexibility: Some providers serve non-residents and tourists. If you're new to the UAE or here short-term, fintech cards are often your only real option.
Can You Get a Virtual Card Without a Salary Transfer in the UAE?
Yes — and more options exist than most people know. Salary transfer is a bank policy, not a UAE law. Several cards skip it entirely.
FAB Islamic Card: No salary transfer required. Open to salaried and self-employed applicants. Minimum salary applies but your pay doesn't need to go through FAB.
Mashreq Smiles Credit Card: No salary transfer needed. One of the more flexible bank-issued options in the UAE market.
ADCB Easy Card: Designed for entry-level earners. No salary transfer requirement. Lower credit limit but easy to get approved.
All Prepaid Cards (YAP, Botim, FAB Prepaid): None of them require a salary transfer. You fund the card yourself. No bank has a claim on your income.
Trade-Offs to Know: Cards without salary transfer often come with a lower credit limit, slightly higher fees, or fewer rewards. You gain flexibility but give up a little on perks.
How to Apply for a Virtual Card Online in the UAE — Step-by-Step
At Cardwisechoice, we make it simple to get a virtual card in the UAE. Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Pick the Right Provider
Choose a trusted bank or fintech app in the UAE that offers virtual cards. Look at fees, limits, and rewards before you decide.
Step 2: Create Your Account
Sign up with your email and mobile number. Set a strong password to keep your account safe.
Step 3: Apply for the Virtual Card
Once your account is ready, choose “Virtual Card” in the app. Pick your card type. Some apps let you set spending limits right away.
Step 4: Review and Submit
Check all details before you submit. Make sure your name and info are correct.
Step 5: Get Instant Access
After approval, your virtual card details will show in the app. You can start using it for online shopping, subscriptions, and digital payments right away.
Security Features of Virtual Cards in the UAE
At Cardwisechoice, we know safety is your top concern. Virtual cards in the UAE come with strong tools that protect your money and give you full control.
One-Time-Use and Limited-Use Virtual Card Numbers
Single-use numbers for safer payments: We can help you choose cards that create a fresh number for each payment. Once used, the number stops working. Even if someone gets it, they can’t use it again.
Lock a card to one store: Some virtual cards work with just one merchant. If the number leaks, it won’t work anywhere else.
Your main card number stays hidden: The real card number is never shared with shops or sites. This lowers the risk of fraud and data leaks.
Spending Limits and Transaction Controls
Set your own spend limit: We like this feature because you control how much the card can spend — per payment or in total.
Limit where the card can be used: Some cards let you block certain store types or regions. This helps stop misuse.
Set a time frame: You can choose how long the card stays active. After the end date, it stops on its own.
Blocked payment? It won’t go through: If a charge breaks your rules, the system declines it right away. Your funds stay safe.
Freeze, Pause, and Delete Your Virtual Card Instantly
Pause in seconds: If something feels off, you can freeze the card in the app. No calls. No wait.
Delete for good: If you no longer need the card, remove it with a tap. That number can’t be used again.
Pending payments stay clear: Any approved charges will still process. New ones will not.
Faster than blocking a plastic card: You don’t need to wait for a new card in the mail. You can create a new virtual card right away.
Fraud Protection and Chargeback Rights on Virtual Cards
Zero-liability cover: Most virtual cards backed by Visa, Mastercard, or Amex offer zero-liability for fraud. If you didn’t make the charge, you’re not held at fault.
Simple chargeback process: You can raise a dispute in the app or with the issuer. The bank reviews the case and may refund you.
Protected under UAE rules: Our Virtual card payments follow UAE Central Bank rules, just like physical cards.
Fast fraud response: Many issuers alert you right away if they spot strange activity.
What Can You Use a Virtual Card For in the UAE?
At Cardwisechoice, we help you choose a virtual card that fits your daily needs. Here’s where it works best.
Online Shopping — Amazon, Noon, and International Retailers
Shop on Amazon UAE and Noon with ease: Our Virtual cards work just like a normal card at checkout. Copy and paste the card number, expiry date, and CVV.
Safe payments with OTP check: Most UAE banks use 3D Secure. You’ll get a one-time passcode (OTP) on your phone to confirm the payment.
Buy from global sites: You can shop on US, UK, and other global stores if the card runs on Visa or Mastercard.
Auto currency change: If you pay in USD or EUR, the bank converts it to AED. Always check the FX fee before you pay.
Subscriptions and SaaS Tools — Netflix, Spotify, Adobe, and More
Use one card per service: We like this tip: create one virtual card for Netflix, one for Spotify, and so on. It keeps things clean.
Name your cards: Many apps let you add a nickname like “Netflix” or “Adobe.” You’ll know what each card is for at a glance.
Stop charges fast: Want to cancel? Just delete or freeze that card. Future charges won’t go through.
Control free trials: Set a low limit for trial offers. If you forget to cancel, the charge won’t pass.
In-Store Contactless Payments via Digital Wallets
Add to Apple Pay or Google Pay: Most virtual cards can link to Apple Pay or Google Pay in seconds.
Tap and pay in stores: Once added, you can use your phone to pay at UAE shops that accept contactless.
Same wide acceptance: If the store accepts Visa or Mastercard tap payments, your virtual card will work too.
International and Cross-Border Payments
Accepted worldwide: Our Virtual cards on Visa, Mastercard, or Amex networks work in most countries.
Watch foreign fees: Some cards charge a small fee for non-AED payments. We always suggest checking this first.
Avoid DCC traps: When a site asks to charge in AED or foreign currency, choose wisely. Paying in local currency can sometimes cost less.
Pick low-fee cards: We help you compare cards with lower international spend fees to save more.
Business Expenses, Vendor Payments, and Travel Bookings
Pay global vendors: Use a virtual card to pay suppliers abroad without sharing your main card.
Book flights and hotels: Many travel sites accept virtual cards like any other card.
Create cards per project: For teams, you can issue one card per project or staff member.
Easy record tracking: Each card has its own spend log. This makes expense checks simple and clear.
What Can You Use a Virtual Card For in the UAE?
At Cardwisechoice, we help you choose a virtual card that fits your daily needs. Here’s where it works best.
Online Shopping — Amazon, Noon, and International Retailers
Shop on Amazon UAE and Noon with ease: Our Virtual cards work just like a normal card at checkout. Copy and paste the card number, expiry date, and CVV.
Safe payments with OTP check: Most UAE banks use 3D Secure. You’ll get a one-time passcode (OTP) on your phone to confirm the payment.
Buy from global sites: You can shop on US, UK, and other global stores if the card runs on Visa or Mastercard.
Auto currency change: If you pay in USD or EUR, the bank converts it to AED. Always check the FX fee before you pay.
Subscriptions and SaaS Tools — Netflix, Spotify, Adobe, and More
Use one card per service: We like this tip: create one virtual card for Netflix, one for Spotify, and so on. It keeps things clean.
Name your cards: Many apps let you add a nickname like “Netflix” or “Adobe.” You’ll know what each card is for at a glance.
Stop charges fast: Want to cancel? Just delete or freeze that card. Future charges won’t go through.
Control free trials: Set a low limit for trial offers. If you forget to cancel, the charge won’t pass.
In-Store Contactless Payments via Digital Wallets
Add to Apple Pay or Google Pay: Most virtual cards can link to Apple Pay or Google Pay in seconds.
Tap and pay in stores: Once added, you can use your phone to pay at UAE shops that accept contactless.
Same wide acceptance: If the store accepts Visa or Mastercard tap payments, your virtual card will work too.
International and Cross-Border Payments
Accepted worldwide: Our Virtual cards on Visa, Mastercard, or Amex networks work in most countries.
Watch foreign fees: Some cards charge a small fee for non-AED payments. We always suggest checking this first.
Avoid DCC traps: When a site asks to charge in AED or foreign currency, choose wisely. Paying in local currency can sometimes cost less.
Pick low-fee cards: We help you compare cards with lower international spend fees to save more.
Business Expenses, Vendor Payments, and Travel Bookings
Pay global vendors: Use a virtual card to pay suppliers abroad without sharing your main card.
Book flights and hotels: Many travel sites accept virtual cards like any other card.
Create cards per project: For teams, you can issue one card per project or staff member.
Easy record tracking: Each card has its own spend log. This makes expense checks simple and clear.
Virtual Cards for Specific User Groups in the UAE
At Cardwisechoice, we know one card does not fit all. A salaried worker, a freelancer, a student, and a business owner all have different needs. That’s why we break down virtual card options by user group. We help you find a card that matches your income, work type, and goals. Whether you want better control, easy approval, or simple online payments, we guide you to the right fit—fast and clear.
Best Virtual Card Options for Expats and Non-Residents in UAE
The UAE is home to many expats and new arrivals. We often see people ask if they can get a virtual card with only a passport. Some fintech apps allow basic KYC with a passport and visa copy, but most banks require an Emirates ID. If you are new and still waiting for your ID, prepaid virtual cards are usually the easiest start. They have lower limits but quick setup. For non-residents, a prepaid card linked to an international wallet can work well. We suggest checking ID rules, minimum balance, and fees before you apply.
Best Virtual Cards for Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals
Freelancers often struggle with bank approvals because they do not have salary slips. We suggest prepaid virtual cards or fintech cards that do not ask for a salary letter. Some providers accept bank statements as proof of income. If you work with global clients, choose a card that supports international payments and low FX fees. A good virtual card can help you manage cash flow, track work costs, and separate personal and business spend with ease.
Best Corporate Virtual Cards for UAE Businesses
For companies, control is key. Tools like Pemo and bank options such as First Abu Dhabi Bank business cards offer smart features. You can issue cards to staff, set spend limits, and track each payment in real time. Many also sync with accounting tools, which saves time each month. We advise businesses to review approval flows, per-card limits, and monthly fees before choosing a provider.
Best Virtual Cards for Students in the UAE
Students often have no steady income, so prepaid virtual cards are the best fit. They have no salary rule and are easy to manage through an app. You load funds, spend within your limit, and avoid debt. This helps build strong money habits early. We always suggest students check for zero annual fees and simple top-up options. A prepaid virtual card is a safe first step into digital banking.
Rewards, Cashback, and Benefits on UAE Virtual Cards
At Cardwisechoice, we know rewards matter. When you apply for a card in the UAE, you want real value — cashback, miles, or points. The good news? Most UAE virtual cards earn the same rewards as physical cards. That means you can tap, shop online, and pay bills while still earning what you deserve. Let’s break it down.
Do Virtual Cards Earn the Same Rewards as Physical Cards?
Yes, in most cases, they do. Virtual cards earn rewards just like physical cards because they are linked to the same account.
If you use an American Express card, your virtual card spend still earns Membership Rewards points. The same goes for cashback cards — your cashback rate stays the same whether you pay with your phone or a plastic card.
For miles cards like Emirates Skywards or Etihad Guest, you also earn miles on virtual card spend. Grocery, fuel, dining, and online shopping usually qualify.
That said, some banks may exclude certain payments, like cash advances, balance transfers, or government fees. Always check the reward terms. At Cardwisechoice, we help you compare these details so there are no surprises.
Best Virtual Credit Cards for Cashback in the UAE
Here are some strong cashback cards in the UAE that offer virtual card access:
1. Emirates NBD Cashback Credit Card
✅ Cashback: Up to 5% on select spends
✅ Monthly cap: Yes
✅ Annual fee: Free in the first year
✅ Minimum salary: From AED 5,000
2. Dubai First Cashback Credit Card
✅ Cashback: Up to 5% on groceries, fuel, dining
✅ Monthly cap: Yes
✅ Annual fee: AED 399
✅ Minimum salary: From AED 5,000
3. HSBC Cashback Credit Card
✅ Cashback: Tiered rates on eligible spend
✅ Monthly cap: Yes
✅ Annual fee: Free for the first year
✅ Minimum salary: From AED 5,000
All of these cards allow virtual card issuance through the bank app, so you can start earning rewards right away. We suggest checking our live comparison tool on Cardwisechoice to see updated rates and offers.
Welcome Bonuses and Joining Offers for UAE Virtual Cards
Many UAE banks offer welcome bonuses when you apply. These may include bonus cashback, reward points, or airline miles.
For example, miles cards linked to Emirates Skywards or Etihad Guest often give bonus miles when you meet a minimum spend in the first 60–90 days. Cashback cards may offer a welcome cashback amount after you spend a set amount.
Our Virtual card spending usually counts toward the minimum spend needed to unlock the bonus, since it is part of the same account. Still, offers change often. Spend limits and time frames vary by bank.
At Cardwisechoice, we keep track of the latest welcome deals in the UAE, so you can apply at the right time and get the most value from day one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Virtual Card in the UAE
Using a single-use virtual card for a monthly plan
A single-use card works once. If you link it to Netflix or gym fees, the next charge will fail. Use a multi-use card or a card made for monthly bills.
Thinking your virtual card has no limit
A virtual card is not magic money. If it’s prepaid, you must top it up. If it’s linked to your credit card, it shares the same limit. Check your balance or credit limit before you spend.
Forgetting foreign fees on global sites
Many UAE banks charge a foreign fee when you pay in USD or other non-AED currency. This adds to your total cost. Check the foreign fee rate in your bank app before you pay.
Not setting spend controls on company virtual cards
If you share a card with a vendor and don’t set limits, they may charge more than agreed. Set a spend cap and expiry date before you share the card details.
Applying without meeting the minimum salary
Most UAE banks have a salary rule. If you apply and don’t qualify, you waste a credit check. Check your eligibility on Cardwisechoice first to avoid a failed try.
Assuming all stores accept virtual cards in person
A virtual card alone won’t work at the counter. You need Apple Pay or Google Pay set up on your phone. Add your card to your wallet app before you visit the store.
Choosing the Right Virtual Credit Card in the UAE
A virtual credit card in the UAE should work fast, stay secure, and give you full control over every transaction. At Cardwisechoice, we built our platform for individuals and businesses across the UAE who need reliable cards for daily use — not just promises on paper.
From online shopping and digital subscriptions to ad spend and international travel, we focus on virtual cards that are widely accepted and simple to manage. Whether you’re paying local UAE merchants or global platforms, your payments should go through smoothly.
We also understand that trust matters. Users in the UAE expect clear policies, responsive support, and complete transparency. We keep things simple. You see every transaction. You control every card. If something goes wrong, we act fast. That’s how a virtual credit card in the UAE should work.
Instant payments: Your card is ready to use immediately. No waiting. No checkout delays.
24/7 support: We’re available anytime — day or night — whenever you need assistance.
Custom access control: Decide who can spend, how much they can spend, and where they can use the card.
Simple security: Add an extra layer of protection. Freeze, delete, or replace cards instantly with one tap.
Efficient delegation: Issue cards to employees, freelancers, or partners without sharing your main account access.
Global payment options: Pay UAE-based merchants and international platforms with the same card.
A card for everyone: Suitable for employees, contractors, interns, and short-term team members.
Easy system integration: Connect our cards to your existing tools with minimal setup.
Clear payment tracking: Every card has a purpose. Every charge has a record. Expense management stays simple and organized.
Supported Countries: Where You Can Get a UAE Virtual Credit Card
A UAE virtual credit card should not be limited by borders. At Cardwisechoice, we built our system so users from different regions can easily access and use a UAE virtual credit card for payments within the UAE and internationally. Whether you're paying local merchants or global platforms, your card should work without complications.
You can apply for and use a UAE virtual credit card with us from the following regions:
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Perfect for residents and businesses who want better control, safer online transactions, and flexible cards for work or personal use.
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries
Including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. Ideal for regional business payments and cross-border services.
Middle East (Selected Countries)
Used by entrepreneurs, remote teams, and companies working with UAE-based merchants and platforms.
European Union (EU)
Including Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Portugal, and other EU countries. Suitable for paying UAE merchants, services, and subscriptions.
United Kingdom
Popular with freelancers, consultants, and remote teams managing UAE-based clients and digital services.
United States
Commonly used for ad spend, SaaS tools, and payments to UAE-based platforms and suppliers.
Canada
Suitable for cross-border businesses, online tools, and services connected to the UAE market.
Australia & New Zealand
Used by remote workers and digital businesses paying UAE merchants and service providers.
Asia (Selected Countries)
Including Singapore, Hong Kong, and parts of Southeast Asia. Often used for digital ads, software subscriptions, and global online services.
Note: If you need to pay UAE merchants, subscriptions, advertising platforms, or online tools, our UAE virtual credit card is designed to work across borders while remaining simple, secure, and easy to manage.
FAQ
What is a Virtual Credit Card in the UAE?
A Virtual Credit Card UAE is a digital card that exists online only. It comes with a card number, expiry date, and CVV, and can be used for online shopping, subscriptions, ad payments, and business expenses without needing a physical card.
How can I apply for a Virtual Credit Card UAE with instant approval?
You can apply online by completing a simple digital application and submitting the required documents. Many providers offer instant credit card approval in the UAE, allowing you to receive and use your virtual card within minutes.
Can I get a free Virtual Credit Card in the UAE?
Some providers offer free virtual cards with no annual fee, while others may charge issuance or usage fees. Always check the terms, minimum salary requirements, and eligibility criteria before applying.
What is the difference between a Virtual Credit Card and a Prepaid Card UAE?
A virtual credit card is linked to a credit line approved by the bank, while a prepaid card UAE requires you to load money before spending. Prepaid cards are ideal for budgeting, while credit cards offer borrowing flexibility and rewards.
Can I use a Virtual Visa Card UAE for online and in-store payments?
Yes. A Virtual Visa Card UAE can be used for online payments and added to digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay for contactless in-store purchases, depending on the provider.
Are Virtual Credit Cards secure for online payments?
Yes. Virtual cards offer enhanced security because you can set spending limits, control usage, freeze or delete the card instantly, and avoid exposing your primary card number to merchants.
How many Virtual Cards can I have in the UAE?
This depends on the provider. Some banks allow multiple virtual cards, including supplementary cards for employees or family members, making them ideal for corporate credit card UAE use and subscription management.
