Travel credit cards

With a travel-focused credit card such as an Air Miles credit card, you can collect rewards or points as you spend. You can then use these points on travel benefits such as flights, hotels, shopping, dining and entertainment.

The more you spend up to your credit limit, the more points and rewards you can earn. But remember, it’s important to always spend within your means and fully understand how your rewards programme works.

Explore: Air Miles credit cards

Depending on the type of credit card and provider, you can normally earn some kind of benefit for each Dirham you spend. Most credit cards offer benefits like cashback and points. They may have minimum spending and other requirements, so check the terms and conditions and compare cards before applying for one.

Some credit cards are specifically geared for travel-related benefits. Whether it’s called a flight rewards credit card, a flight miles credit card, a travel points credit card or a travel miles credit card, the basic premise is the same. Every time you swipe, you earn points or miles, which you can exchange for travel discounts and lifestyle rewards. 

Even if you use your credit card for your day-to-day expenses like groceries and bills, the points you build up can be used towards your next trip.

Find out more about credit card benefits.

You can earn flight rewards and flight miles on selected credit cards. These can be exchanged or redeemed for a range of rewards, like flights, hotel accommodation, airline loyalty points, shopping and entertainment. While premium credit cards offer better rewards (but with higher fees), you can still earn air miles and other deals on fee-free products, like the Advance credit card.

Premium credit cards often include access to exclusive airport lounges, allowing you to relax in comfort before you fly. This is especially useful if you have a long layover. Check your credit card reward details to see which lounges you can access at which airports.

Many credit cards offer free travel insurance, which can save you money. Credit card travel insurance can cover medical emergencies, lost luggage and trip cancellations. Study the policy wording and exclusions, and decide whether the policy cover is enough for your needs. You may want to explore topping it up or getting a more comprehensive policy. 

See your credit card special offers to see what sorts of savings and discounts you can get at lifestyle and entertainment venues.

Some travel card providers offer competitive exchange rates for worldwide credit card spending. They may even waive foreign transaction fees, which can add up. It’s best to shop around and compare rates and fees.

Each card issuer has its own system, which normally involves the following:

So is it better to use a debit card or a credit card when travelling? 

If you open a Global Money account, you’ll get a multi-currency GMA debit card. It’s generally cheaper to withdraw cash from ATMs using a debit card like this. You can also control your spending using a debit card.

A travel credit card is helpful for bigger purchases, as you can pay for them over time. You can also get better rewards and purchase protection – but the charges may be higher. 

Explore: How credit cards work