One of the most popular features of UAE credit cards is the 0% Easy Payment Plan (EPP) — the ability to convert a purchase into equal monthly installments at zero interest. With the right card, you can buy electronics, furniture, travel packages, and more, then spread the cost over 3–24 months at absolutely no extra charge.

How Do 0% Installment Plans Work in UAE?

When you make a qualifying purchase at a participating merchant, you ask to convert it into a monthly installment plan. The bank charges 0% interest for the agreed period. You pay a fixed amount each month until the balance clears. Some banks charge a small one-time processing fee of 1–1.5%, while others are completely free.

Best 0% Installment Credit Cards in UAE 2025

  • Emirates NBD Cashback Card: 0% EPP at 2,000+ merchants, up to 12-month plans, no processing fee
  • ADCB Touchpoints Platinum: 0% EPP up to 24 months at major retailers and travel agencies
  • FAB Cashback Card: Unlimited 0% EPP at all FAB partner merchants, easy in-app conversion
  • Mashreq Platinum Elite: 0% EPP with rewards acceleration on eligible purchases
  • DIB Consumer Finance Card: Sharia-compliant 0% installment plans across partner merchants

Which Merchants Participate?

Most major UAE retailers are part of 0% EPP programs, including:

  • Electronics: Sharaf DG, Emax, Apple Stores, Samsung Experience Stores
  • Furniture: IKEA, Pan Emirates, The One
  • Travel: Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways, flydubai, hotel booking platforms
  • Jewellery: Damas, Pure Gold, Malabar Gold
  • Health & Beauty: Many clinics, dental centres, and cosmetic providers

Things to Watch Out For

  • Minimum purchase amount: Most EPPs require a minimum spend of AED 500–1,000
  • Processing fees: Some banks charge 1–1.5% of the converted amount as a one-time fee
  • Credit limit impact: The full purchase amount is blocked from your available credit limit upfront
  • Early repayment: Settling an installment plan early may incur a cancellation fee — always check T&Cs

Tips to Maximise Your 0% Plan

  • Always confirm with the merchant before purchasing that they participate in your bank's EPP
  • Request the longest available tenure (24 months) to reduce monthly cash-flow pressure
  • Pay your full statement balance on time every month to avoid penalty interest wiping out your savings
  • Many 0% EPPs still earn cashback or reward points — stack benefits where possible