How to Activate Dubai First Bank Credit Card

Why You Should Activate Dubai First Bank Card Immediately?

You should activate Dubai First Bank credit card right away for security and functionality reasons. According to the official bank guidelines, you should not wait on activating until later because -

• Cards are sent out in an "inactive" mode to ensure safety. Until you officially activate it, the card cannot be used at stores (POS), ATMs, or for any online transactions.
• During the activation process, you have the option to select a 4-digit PIN of your choice, making the card more secure. Additionally, this is a compulsory security measure for all transactions and access to ATMs in the UAE.

Different Methods to Activate the Dubai First Bank Card

To activate a Dubai First Bank credit card is an instant and safe process that allows immediate usage while enforcing strict identity verification criteria. You have the option of selecting from various legitimate activation methods, such as digital, SMS-based, or assisted through customer care, according to your comfort and availability, thus making navigation and secure PIN setting easy.

Official Activation Methods

You can activate your Dubai First Bank Credit Card easily using any of the methods below.

1. Mobile App (Recommended)

• Download the Dubai First Mobile App.
• Log in using your Emirates ID or credentials (new users complete a liveness check).
• Tap Credit Card or New → Activate Card.
• Enter last 4 digits of the card, set a 4-digit PIN, and confirm with the OTP.

1. SMS Activation

In case you aren't able to use the mobile application immediately, you can activate Dubai First Bank card by sending a coded message from your registered mobile number. 

• From your registered mobile number, send:
  CACT [last 4 digits] [4-digit PIN] to 4743
• Example: CACT 1234 8888

1. Customer Care

If the users face technical difficulties with the app or don’t receive the OTP is they can use the 24/7 customer care number for manual activation. 

• UAE: 600 545500
• International: +971 4 352 8228
• Identity verification required before activation or PIN reset.

Common Problems While Trying to Activate the Dubai First Bank Credit Card and Their Solutions

In case of activation issues due to security controls, connectivity problems, or credential mismatches. Dubai First Bank provides clear official solutions to resolve each activation error efficiently. Here are some common problem that can occur. 

1. OTP Not Received

Solution: Verify that the registered mobile number has network coverage and sufficient inbox storage. Use the “Resend OTP” option within the app. If the issue persists, contact official customer support.

1. Incorrect PIN Format

Solution: Enter exactly 4 numeric digits when creating the PIN. Avoid predictable sequences such as 1234 or 0000.

1. App Login Issues

Solution: Use the “Forgot Password” or “Forgot Username” options in the app. First-time users should re-register using a valid Emirates ID and complete digital verification.

1. Unsuccessful Activation Attempts

Solution: Repeated failed attempts may temporarily restrict activation. Contact the official helpline 600 545500 for manual identity verification and activation reset.

Tips to Ensure Smooth Activation of Your Dubai First Bank Credit Card

To make sure the Dubai First Bank credit card is activated without any problems, just follow these tips that are verified from the bank's official instructions:

• Keep contacts updated: Use the same active mobile number and email registered with the bank to receive OTPs and alerts.
• Update the app: Install the latest Dubai First Mobile App to meet security and authentication requirements.
• Use a strong network: Activate the card using a stable 4G/5G connection; avoid public Wi-Fi.
• Verify card details carefully: Enter the last 4 digits of your new physical card correctly (not an old or expired one).

How to Check the Status After You Activate Dubai First Bank Card

After activation, the bank provides multiple official ways to confirm whether the credit card is fully active and ready for use. Each method below reflects real-time status from the bank’s systems.

Mobile App Dashboard

The Check: Log in to the Dubai First Mobile App. If activation is successful, the card will no longer show the “Activate Card” prompt and will display Active status or the available credit limit on the dashboard.

Transaction History & Digital Card

The Check: Open the Digital Card or Transaction History section in the app. Successful activation immediately updates the profile, allowing access to statements, rewards, and recent transactions.

Customer Support Confirmation

The Check: If the app status is unclear, activation can be verified through official customer support. The representative confirms whether the card status is marked as Open/Active in the bank’s system.
Support Numbers:

• UAE: 600 545500
• International: +971 4 352 8228

First Authorised Transaction

The Check: Perform a small in-store transaction using the newly set 4-digit PIN. A “Transaction Approved” message confirms the card is fully synchronised with Dubai First Bank’s payment network.

Conclusion

Activating Dubai First Bank credit card is security compliance step that enables transactions, PIN usage, and mobile banking controls. Official activation methods include the mobile app, SMS, or customer care, depending on eligibility. Following verified bank instructions ensures immediate usability, fraud protection, and uninterrupted access to card features provided by Dubai First Bank.

FAQs