Etihad Credit Bureau has begun including Buy Now, Pay Later account information in UAE credit reports, marking a significant shift in how the country tracks consumer financial behaviour.
The update, effective July 2026, brings data from leading BNPL providers Tabby and Tamara into the national credit reporting system for the first time.
The move reflects the rapid growth of flexible financing options among UAE consumers and aims to give lenders a fuller picture of individual financial commitments. BNPL information will now apply to both new and existing Tabby and Tamara customers, with relevant historical transactions also factored into reports.
Etihad Credit Bureau said the change will help existing borrowers build stronger credit profiles while giving new-to-credit customers a formal entry point into the financial system. Officials described the update as a step toward more comprehensive risk assessment for lenders and other authorised entities.
Marwan Ahmad Lutfi, Director General of Etihad Credit Bureau, said the organisation remains focused on improving the depth and relevance of data within its credit reporting products as consumer financing continues to evolve.
Hosam Arab, CEO and Co-founder of Tabby, said responsible lending depends on a clear view of a person's finances. He noted that the platform's real-time underwriting model means customers with strong repayment habits can now see that track record reflected in their broader financial standing.
Sagar Shah, General Manager for Tamara in the UAE, said the initiative supports greater transparency and expands opportunities for people to take part in the formal financial system.
The update is part of Etihad Credit Bureau's wider effort to work with banks, fintech firms and other data providers to strengthen the UAE's credit infrastructure and build a more inclusive financial ecosystem.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
