5 Benefits of a Credit Card you should know

Most consumers have the notion that credit cards are for shopping with occasional rewards. The truth is, most are not aware and miss out on benefits worth thousands of dirhams, perks, and privileges each year they are entitled to.

Benefits can vary by card type—even from the same issuer, so it’s important to check the terms and conditions, exclusions, and limitations that may apply. Not to worry, all cards offer a minimum range of benefits that can be used smartly to your advantage.

The best way to reap them is to first understand what you have and what you need. Stack up all the card(s) in an Excel sheet—jot down what they offer, the annual interest charges, fees, credit limits, and the available balance. Based on your needs, set a goal of what you would like to earn from the cards or apply for those that tick the right boxes.

Dig up and (finally) read that agreement you signed when you took out the card—or simply call the 24-hour toll-free customer care, found on the back of your card. Here's how to make the most of the benefits that credit cards offer. It’s time to make that plastic fantastic!

Reward Benefits of a Credit Card

Every time you use a credit card—online or in a store—the bank earns an 'interchange' fee from the merchant. So, banks offer a little reward in return: points, cash, miles, or vouchers. It’s a win-win.
Most rewards fall into one of a few categories: cashback, points, vouchers, or miles that can be redeemed in various ways. Cash rewards can reduce your outstanding balance, travel rewards can get you free flights, and vouchers can be used to shop or given as gifts.
Did you know? Many Citi credit cards in the UAE offer specific reward currencies like ThankYou® Points, Citi Miles, and CitiDollars—each tied to a different type of card. These can be redeemed for cash rebates, travel reimbursements, Pay with Points for recent purchases, or even transferred to airline loyalty programs like Emirates Skywards. Citi also allows up to AED 500 in travel rebates when you redeem 15,000 points or miles. Explore Citi’s Rewards and Redemptions That said, earning rewards is one thing; redeeming them wisely is another. Watch out for expiring rewards, point caps, and minimum spend thresholds. A few smart redemptions can go a long way.

Travel Benefits of Credit Cards

Credit cards were originally designed in the 1950s as a travel convenience tool. Today, they still offer some of the best travel perks. If you're a frequent flyer or have a trip coming up, take advantage of features like:

• Discounted or even free flight tickets
• Complimentary airport lounge access (even for economy tickets)
• Travel insurance coverage
• Concierge services and car rental protection
• Checked baggage and lost luggage coverage
• Trip cancellation protection

Many of these perks activate when you book travel using your card.
For instance, Citi Prestige, Citi Premier, and Citi Ultima cards offer premium travel benefits like VIP lounge access, global concierge, and airport transfers via Careem, in addition to letting you use your rewards to offset eligible travel spends within the last 60 days.
Wherever your journey takes you, your card benefits often follow.

Shopping Benefits of Credit Cards

Credit cards can be your best friend when shopping—if used right. Whether you’re buying online, in-store, over the phone, or while traveling, credit cards offer valuable consumer protection.
If a seller doesn’t deliver or won’t issue a refund, your credit card provider might help with a chargeback. Many cards also offer:

• Extended return policies
• Extended warranties
• Price protection guarantees
• Purchase protection on items that are lost, stolen, or damaged

Many Citi cards also include fraud protection, unauthorized transaction alerts, and secure online payments with 3D Secure and embedded chip + PIN.
It's time to turn your credit card into your smart shopping assistant.

Banking Benefits of Credit Cards

Used responsibly, a credit card is a tool—not a trap. Paying off your balance in full and on time effectively gives you a 30-day interest-free loan. That’s free credit—if you manage it well.
You can also:

• Convert large purchases into flexible monthly installments
• Avail cash loans on a card during emergencies
• Use balance consolidation to simplify repayments
• Choose interest-free installment plans at select retailers

With Citi, many of these features can be accessed directly through the Citi Mobile® App, including viewing eligible purchases, activating installment options, and managing your repayment schedules. It’s a seamless way to take control of your finances on the go.

Safety Benefits of Credit Cards

Unlike cash, credit cards come with built-in security layers. From real-time transaction alerts via SMS and email to PIN and chip-based security, they offer safer payment experiences both online and offline.
If your card is lost or stolen, you may be covered under the Zero Liability Policy for fraudulent use.
Some cards also offer:

• Credit Shield: An optional protection plan that covers outstanding balances in the event of job loss, critical illness, or even death
• Emergency card replacement
• Secure digital banking controls via the app

When used wisely, a credit card can be one of the safest ways to tibank UAE.

Final Thoughts

When used responsibly, the benefits of a credit card go far beyond just making purchases. From earning Citi Miles, ThankYou® Points, and CitiDollars, to accessing global travel perks, fraud protection, and easy installment plans, there’s real value in knowing and using your card’s features well.

Whether you are looking to save more, travel better, or shop smarter, it pays to understand the tools already in your wallet. Explore the full suite of Citi credit cards.