Credit cards are widely used in the UAE for shopping, dining, travel, and everyday purchases. While most cards offer convenient payment options, some also provide rewards designed around specific spending habits. A Share credit card is one such option, offering rewards on eligible purchases across participating retail and lifestyle destinations.
However, not every credit card provides the same benefits. Some focus on cashback, others offer travel miles, and certain cards reward customers for shopping at selected stores. Understanding these differences can help you choose a card that matches your spending habits and financial needs.
What Is a Share Credit Card?
A Share credit card is a co-branded payment card connected to the SHARE Rewards programme operated by Majid Al Futtaim. It allows cardholders to earn SHARE Points on eligible transactions, including purchases at participating shopping malls, supermarkets, entertainment venues, and other retailers.
These cards are particularly relevant to UAE residents who frequently shop at destinations such as Carrefour, Mall of the Emirates, and City Centre malls.
Depending on the card provider and category, benefits may include:
SHARE Points on eligible shopping transactions
Higher reward rates at participating retail destinations
Rewards on qualifying everyday purchases
Access to selected shopping and entertainment offers
Additional lifestyle or travel benefits on certain card tiers
Some Islamic banks in the UAE also provide Sharia-compliant SHARE covered cards, allowing customers to earn retail rewards through Islamic banking products.
What Is a Regular Credit Card?
A regular credit card allows customers to make purchases using a credit facility provided by a financial institution, subject to an approved credit limit.
Cardholders receive periodic statements detailing their transactions, outstanding balances, minimum payment requirements, and payment due dates.
Depending on the card type, a regular credit card may offer cashback, reward points, travel benefits, or no rewards at all.
Unlike a Share credit card, which is linked to a specific loyalty programme, a general-purpose credit card may provide rewards across broader spending categories.
Key Differences Between a Share Credit Card and a Regular Credit Card
Although both cards can be used for everyday payments, their reward structures and additional benefits may differ.
Feature | Share Credit Card | Regular Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
Primary benefit | SHARE loyalty rewards | Payments, cashback, points, or other benefits |
Reward programme | SHARE Points | Depends on the card |
Shopping rewards | Enhanced rewards at eligible SHARE destinations | Depends on spending category and provider |
Redemption options | Participating SHARE merchants and destinations | Cashback, vouchers, travel rewards, or other options |
Retail partnerships | Majid Al Futtaim ecosystem | Varies by card provider |
Annual fees | Depends on card type | Free or paid, depending on card |
Travel benefits | Available on certain card tiers | Available on selected cards |
The main difference is the reward programme. A Share credit card is designed around the SHARE shopping and lifestyle ecosystem, while a regular credit card may offer greater flexibility across different reward categories.
How Does the Rewards System Work on a Share Credit Card?
The SHARE Rewards programme allows eligible cardholders to accumulate points when making qualifying purchases.
The number of points earned depends on the card type, spending category, and participating merchant.
Earning SHARE Points
Cardholders may receive different reward rates based on where they spend.
For example, purchases at participating Majid Al Futtaim destinations may qualify for higher rewards than purchases at other merchants.
Some cards also award points for local and international transactions, although certain spending categories may have reduced earning rates.
Redeeming SHARE Points
Accumulated points can be redeemed at participating merchants and destinations within the SHARE programme.
The redemption value and conditions depend on the programme rules and applicable card terms.
This rewards structure can be particularly useful for customers who regularly spend money at participating supermarkets, shopping malls, and entertainment destinations.
How Does a Share Credit Card Compare With a Skywards Credit Card?
Another important comparison for UAE customers is between retail-focused cards and travel-focused cards.
A Skywards credit card is linked to the Emirates Skywards loyalty programme. Instead of earning shopping-focused SHARE Points, eligible cardholders collect Skywards Miles that can be used for travel-related rewards.
Here are the key differences:
1. Rewards Earned
A Share credit card earns SHARE Points on eligible transactions, while a Skywards credit card earns Emirates Skywards Miles.
2. Redemption Benefits
SHARE Points are generally redeemed within participating retail and lifestyle destinations.
Skywards Miles may be redeemed for eligible flights, flight upgrades, and other rewards offered through the Emirates Skywards programme.
3. Spending Preferences
A Share credit card may be more suitable for someone who frequently shops at Carrefour, Mall of the Emirates, and other participating retailers.
A Skywards credit card may be more appealing to someone who frequently travels or wants to accumulate miles for future trips.
4. Additional Benefits
Selected Skywards cards may offer airport services, travel benefits, and loyalty programme privileges.
Higher-tier SHARE cards may also include benefits such as airport lounge access, roadside assistance, or other lifestyle services.
The exact benefits depend on the card issuer, tier, and applicable terms.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Share Credit Card in the UAE?
A Share credit card can provide several advantages depending on how frequently and where you spend.
Rewards on Everyday Shopping
Customers who regularly shop at participating supermarkets and retail destinations may benefit from earning points on purchases they would otherwise make using another payment method.
Retail and Entertainment Benefits
Some cards offer enhanced reward rates at participating shopping malls, entertainment attractions, and lifestyle destinations.
Rewards Beyond Partner Stores
Depending on the card provider, customers may also earn SHARE Points on eligible purchases outside the Majid Al Futtaim network.
Additional Cardholder Privileges
Certain card tiers may provide supplementary benefits, such as airport lounge access or roadside assistance.
However, these benefits should always be assessed alongside the card's annual fees and other charges.
What Should You Check Before Choosing a Share Credit Card?
Choosing a credit card involves more than comparing advertised reward rates.
Before applying, consider the following factors.
Annual Fees: Some cards charge an annual fee, while others may waive it when specific spending conditions are met. Compare the fee against the rewards you realistically expect to earn.
Reward Earning Rates: Check which purchases qualify for higher SHARE Points and whether reduced earning rates apply to certain transaction categories.
Reward Redemption Rules: Understand how points can be used, whether they expire, and whether any redemption restrictions apply.
Minimum Income Requirements: Financial institutions may require applicants to meet specified income and eligibility criteria.
Payment Charges: Review applicable profit rates or interest charges, late payment fees, cash withdrawal fees, and foreign currency transaction charges.
Spending Habits: A card providing higher shopping rewards may not deliver the same value to someone who spends more on travel, utilities, or other categories.
Is a Share Credit Card Better Than a Regular Credit Card?
There is no single answer because the better option depends on how the cardholder uses it.
A Share credit card may provide greater value for someone who frequently shops at participating SHARE merchants and regularly redeems rewards.
A general cashback credit card may be more suitable for customers who prefer straightforward savings across several spending categories.
Similarly, a Skywards credit card may be worth considering for frequent travellers who actively use Emirates Skywards rewards.
It is also important to compare fees and repayment obligations. Rewards should not encourage unnecessary spending, particularly when carrying a balance could result in charges exceeding the value of the rewards earned.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a Share credit card be used outside participating SHARE stores?
Yes. SHARE-branded credit cards can generally be used wherever their payment network is accepted, subject to the card's terms and transaction restrictions. However, reward rates may differ depending on the merchant.
2. Can SHARE Points be converted into Skywards Miles?
SHARE Points and Skywards Miles belong to separate loyalty programmes. Customers should not assume that points can be transferred between them unless a specific conversion arrangement is available.
3. Is a Share credit card suitable for international purchases?
Many SHARE credit cards support international transactions. However, foreign currency charges and reward earning rates vary by card provider, destination, and transaction type.
4. Is a Share credit card available through Islamic banks in the UAE?
Yes. Sharia-compliant SHARE covered cards are available in the UAE. Their financing structure differs from that of conventional credit cards, and customers should review the applicable contractual terms and fees.
5. Which is better for shopping rewards: a Share credit card or a Skywards credit card?
A Share credit card may be more suitable for frequent shoppers at participating retailers, while a Skywards credit card may be preferable for customers who prioritise travel rewards. The value depends on reward rates, spending patterns, annual fees, and redemption preferences.
Choosing the Right Credit Card for Your Lifestyle
A Share credit card and a regular credit card can serve similar payment needs, but their rewards and benefits may differ considerably. SHARE cards focus on shopping and lifestyle rewards, while other cards may offer cashback, flexible reward points, or travel-related benefits.
Before making a decision, review your regular expenses, understand how rewards are earned and redeemed, and compare all applicable charges. Whether you prefer retail rewards or the travel benefits of a Skywards credit card, choosing a card based on your actual spending habits can help you get better value from everyday transactions.
