In a significant development for the UAE's financial sector, the Etihad Credit Bureau has officially begun incorporating Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) transaction data into its credit reports. This strategic initiative, effective July 2026, includes information from leading fintech providers Tabby and Tamara. The move is set to provide a more holistic view of consumer financial obligations, reflecting the growing prominence of flexible payment solutions in the modern economy.
A New Era for Credit Assessment
This enhancement broadens the scope of information available within every UAE credit report, applying to both existing and new customers of the two BNPL platforms. The inclusion of relevant historical transactions ensures that a consumer's complete payment behavior is captured over time. This creates a more comprehensive and accurate financial profile for every individual utilizing these popular services.
For lenders and authorized financial institutions, this development enables more robust and informed credit decisions. By gaining visibility into short-term financing commitments that were previously unrecorded, they can conduct more thorough risk assessments. This ultimately supports the practice of responsible lending and helps mitigate potential over-indebtedness within the market.
Fostering Financial Inclusion and Responsibility
A key benefit of this initiative is its potential to enhance financial inclusion, particularly for individuals who are new to credit. It provides a formal pathway for these consumers to build a verifiable credit history through responsible use of BNPL services. This recognition of their repayment habits can unlock access to a wider array of traditional financial products in the future.
The integration also encourages greater financial discipline among consumers, as their BNPL repayment performance will now directly influence their credit standing. This accountability promotes timely payments and more conscious borrowing habits across the board. The result is a stronger and more resilient credit ecosystem built on a foundation of responsible financial behavior.
A Collaborative Push for Transparency
Industry leaders have welcomed the initiative as a collaborative step toward greater market transparency. Marwan Ahmad Lutfi, Director General of Etihad Credit Bureau, stated that the bureau is committed to strengthening the UAE's credit reporting ecosystem. He emphasized the importance of adapting reports to reflect the evolution of financial services and new forms of consumer financing.
Representing the fintech perspective, Hosam Arab, CEO and Co-founder of Tabby, noted that responsible lending starts with a clear view of a person's finances. He explained that for the millions of customers who use Tabby responsibly, their positive track record can now contribute to their broader financial standing. This rewards good payment behavior and supports their long-term financial empowerment.
Echoing this sentiment, Sagar Shah, General Manager for Tamara in the UAE, highlighted that trust is at the core of the company's operations. He affirmed that this initiative reinforces Tamara's commitment to transparency and creating more opportunities for people to participate in the financial system. The partnership underscores a shared vision for a more inclusive financial landscape.
Ultimately, the integration of BNPL data into national credit reports marks a pivotal evolution in the UAE's financial infrastructure. This forward-thinking move aligns the credit reporting system with modern consumer trends and the rise of digital finance. It paves the way for a more transparent, inclusive, and resilient economic environment for both lenders and borrowers across the nation.