680 Credit Score: Good or Bad?
In today’s financial landscape, maintaining a good credit score is crucial. This can especially be the case in the UAE, where access to loans and credit cards often hinges on your creditworthiness.
A 680 credit score falls into the medium-strength or good category, indicating a generally positive credit history but also some room for improvement. While this score is better than many, it may not qualify you for the best interest rates or terms available.
By following effective credit-building strategies, however, you can enhance your score and gain access to more favorable terms and greater financial flexibility.
Is a 680 Credit Score Good or Bad?
As per the widely-recognised standards, a 680 credit score is classified as a ‘fair score’ (scores between 650 and 699 are usually considered ‘Fair’). This Al Etihad Credit Bureau or AECB rating is generally acceptable to most banks and financial institutions when evaluating applicants for credit products.
- Access to Credit: With this AECB credit score, you can qualify for various credit products, though approval is easier than securing favorable interest rates.
- Better Approval Chances: You are more likely to be approved for various credit cards and loans, potentially qualifying for cards with rewards.
- Positive Impressions: Employers and landlords often check credit scores. A good score can facilitate job approvals and housing applications.
While a score of 680 suggests that you manage your finances well, it may also reflect occasional lapses such as missed utility payments or overdue credit card bills.
What Can a 680 Credit Score Get You?
Regardless of the limited card options and best interest rates, you can still get good options for cards and loans —
Credit Cards
With this AECB credit score, you can access a variety of credit card options in UAE, including secured, unsecured, and special benefits cards.
Here are the top options regarding the credit card 680 credit score —
| Credit Cards | Minimum Income (AED) | Annual Fees (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Bank of Dubai Super Saver Card | 5,000 | Free for the 1st year |
| Deem Titanium Mastercard | 5,000 | Free for the 1st year |
| First Abu Dhabi Bank FAB Rewards Indulge Card | 5,000 | Free for life |
| Citibank Citi Rewards | 8,000 | Free for the 1st year |
| Citibank Citi Ready Credit | 8,000 | Free for the 1st year |
| Apply Now | ||
Personal Loans
A 680 credit score in UAE is considered fair from the perspective of personal loans, making the application process relatively straightforward. However, be prepared for potentially higher interest rates compared to applicants with higher credit scores.
| Personal Loan | Minimum Income (AED) | Fixed Return (p.a.) | Reducing Rate (p.a.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deem Finance Loan | 5,000 | N/A | 15.99% - 34.99% |
| Dubai Islamic Bank Loan | 7,000 | 4.90% | 5.99%-21.99% |
| HSBC - Salary Transfer | 7,500 | 4.74% | 4.89% |
| RAKBANK Loan | 10,000 | 2.85% | 5.49% |
| NBQ Loans for Expatriates | 10,000 | N/A | 6.99% |
| Apply Now | |||
Auto Loans
Car loans are typically easier to secure with a medium-level credit score. A 680 credit score can help you get an auto loan with decent interest rates, allowing you to finance your vehicle.
| Car Loan | Minimum Salary (per month) | Fixed Rate (p.a.) | Reducing Rate (p.a.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSBC Car Loan | AED 10,000 | N/A | N/A |
| First Abu Dhabi Bank Islamic Car Finance (UAE Nationals) | AED 7,000 | 3.19% | 5.98% |
| First Abu Dhabi Bank Islamic Car Finance (Expats) | AED 7,000 | 3.24% | 6.07% |
| RAKBANK Car Loans | AED 5,000 | N/A | N/A |
| Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank Car Finance | AED 5,000 | N/A | N/A |
| Apply Now | |||
Tips to Improve Your Credit Score from 680
To elevate your credit score from 680 to the “good” (700-749) or “excellent” (750-900) ranges, consider these strategies —
- Stay On Top of Bill Payments: Timely payments for credit cards and utility bills are essential. Even a single missed payment can negatively impact your score.
- Stick with Credit Cards for Long: Avoid frequently switching credit cards. Choose wisely and maintain those accounts to build a positive credit history.
- Maintain Healthy Credit Utilisation: Aim to use only 15% to 30% of your credit limit. High utilisation can lower your score, so keep it in check — especially during major expenses.
- Stay Consistent: Regularly practising good credit habits — timely payments and low utilisation —can gradually improve your score over time.
For more such information, you can read our detailed article on “How to increase your credit score?”
How to Check Your Credit Score for Free
You can easily check your credit score in UAE through Paisabazaar.ae for free.
Go to “Check Free Credit Score” under “Banking Products’ and add your details to check your AECB credit score.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Yes, a 680 credit score is generally considered good and allows for approval on various loans and credit products. While you may qualify for most credit cards and loans, securing the best interest rates and terms might be more challenging.
Ans: To improve your score from 680 to 750, focus on making timely payments, keeping your credit utilisation below 30%, and monitoring your credit report for errors. Additionally, try to diversify your credit mix and keep older accounts open to strengthen your overall credit profile.
| Credit Score for different types of Loan | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Score for Personal Loan | Credit Score for House Loan | Credit Score for Car loan | Credit Score for Student Loan |

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