Can I Use Emirates NBD Credit Card in India? As one of the leading financial institutions in the UAE, Emirates NBD offers a variety of credit cards tailored to meet the needs of its customers. Many travelers who have Emirates NBD credit cards often ask, “Can I use Emirates NBD credit card in India?” This is especially relevant for UAE residents and frequent travelers who visit India for business, leisure, or family visits.
In this detailed guide, we will answer this question comprehensively. We’ll explore the usage of Emirates NBD credit cards in India, the types of cards available, benefits, potential charges, and tips to ensure smooth usage while traveling abroad.
Can I Use Emirates NBD Credit Card in India?
Yes, you can use your Emirates NBD credit card in India, provided that the credit card is internationally enabled. Most Emirates NBD credit cards are affiliated with global payment networks such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express, which are widely accepted at millions of locations across India.
Key Points to Keep in Mind:
- Global Acceptance: Emirates NBD credit cards that are part of Visa or MasterCard networks are accepted at a wide range of stores, shopping malls, and online platforms in India.
- ATMs: You can use your Emirates NBD credit card to withdraw cash from ATMs in India, provided the ATM is affiliated with your card’s payment network (Visa/MasterCard).
- Currency Conversion Fees: When using your card in India, transactions will be converted from Indian Rupees (INR) to AED (Emirati Dirhams). Keep in mind that there may be foreign transaction fees for these conversions.
Types of Emirates NBD Credit Cards
Before using your Emirates NBD credit card in India, it’s essential to understand which type of card you have, as some cards come with specific benefits for international usage.
1. Emirates NBD Visa and MasterCard Credit Cards
- International Acceptance: Both Visa and MasterCard credit cards from Emirates NBD are accepted globally, including in India.
- Travel Benefits: These cards offer various travel-related benefits, such as travel insurance, airport lounge access, and discounts on hotels and flights when used internationally.
2. Emirates NBD Platinum and Signature Credit Cards
- Premium Benefits: If you hold a Platinum or Signature card, you can enjoy higher credit limits, special concierge services, and more lucrative rewards on international purchases.
- Airport Lounge Access: These cards offer access to exclusive airport lounges, making them a great choice for frequent flyers traveling to and from India.
3. Emirates NBD Skywards Credit Cards
- Miles Accumulation: These cards, associated with Emirates Skywards, allow you to accumulate miles with every purchase. If you frequently visit India or other international destinations, you can earn miles for your travel.
- Global Usage: Just like other cards, Skywards credit cards are accepted globally, including in India, and you can redeem your miles for flights, upgrades, and other rewards.
Fees for Using Emirates NBD Credit Cards in India
While you can use your Emirates NBD credit card in India, it’s important to be aware of certain fees that may apply:
1. Foreign Transaction Fee
- Emirates NBD typically charges a foreign transaction fee for purchases made outside the UAE. This fee can range between 1.75% and 3% of the transaction amount.
- This fee is applied to purchases made in India (in Indian Rupees) and any other international transactions.
2. Currency Conversion Fees
- When making transactions in India, your purchases are converted from Indian Rupees (INR) to Emirati Dirhams (AED). You may incur a currency conversion fee on top of the foreign transaction fee.
- Be mindful of these charges, as they can add up if you’re making multiple purchases.
3. ATM Withdrawal Fees
- If you use your Emirates NBD credit card to withdraw cash from an ATM in India, there will be an ATM withdrawal fee, along with any interest charges on the withdrawn amount. Typically, there is an additional 3-4% fee on the amount withdrawn.
Benefits of Using Emirates NBD Credit Cards in India
Using your Emirates NBD credit card in India can offer a variety of benefits that can enhance your travel and shopping experience.
1. Rewards Program
- Emirates NBD credit cards come with rewards points for every purchase. When using your card in India, you can earn rewards on your spending and redeem them for shopping vouchers, travel tickets, and more.
- The more you spend, the more rewards you earn, and this can be especially useful during trips to India.
2. Travel Insurance
- Many Emirates NBD credit cards provide travel insurance coverage, which includes medical expenses, trip cancellation, and luggage loss. This can give you peace of mind while traveling to India.
3. Exclusive Offers and Discounts
- Emirates NBD often partners with brands and businesses in India to offer exclusive discounts and promotions. For example, you may enjoy discounts on shopping, hotel stays, or dining when you use your credit card at partner establishments.
4. Contactless Payments
- Most Emirates NBD credit cards are equipped with contactless payment features, allowing you to make quick and easy transactions at restaurants, stores, and gas stations in India.
How to Ensure Smooth Usage of Emirates NBD Credit Card in India
While using your Emirates NBD credit card in India is generally straightforward, here are some tips to ensure a seamless experience:
1. Inform Emirates NBD About Your Travel Plans
- Before traveling to India, it’s recommended to inform Emirates NBD about your travel dates. This helps to avoid any fraud alerts or card freezes, ensuring that your card works smoothly while in India.
2. Check for International Usage Limits
- Ensure that your credit limit is sufficient for international transactions. Some Emirates NBD cards have daily or monthly spending limits for international usage, which may restrict high-value purchases. You can request an increase in your credit limit if needed.
3. Activate Your Card for International Usage
- If your Emirates NBD credit card is not automatically activated for international use, make sure to enable international usage via the Emirates NBD mobile app or by contacting customer service before you leave for India.
4. Choose the Right Payment Network
- To avoid issues at specific locations in India, it’s a good idea to ensure that your card is part of the most widely accepted networks (Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted). American Express cards may be less widely accepted in India compared to Visa and MasterCard.
Conclusion: Can I Use Emirates NBD Credit Card in India?
In summary, yes, you can use your Emirates NBD credit card in India as long as it is internationally enabled and part of a global payment network like Visa, MasterCard, or American Express. While the process is simple and convenient, be mindful of foreign transaction fees, currency conversion charges, and potential ATM withdrawal fees. Additionally, you can enjoy various benefits, such as rewards points, travel insurance, and exclusive offers when using your Emirates NBD credit card in India.
By following the tips mentioned above, you can maximize the benefits of your Emirates NBD credit card and ensure a smooth financial experience during your visit to India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use my Emirates NBD credit card at ATMs in India?
Yes, you can withdraw cash from ATMs in India using your Emirates NBD credit card, provided the ATM is part of your card’s payment network (Visa, MasterCard, etc.).
2. Are there any fees for using Emirates NBD credit cards in India?
Yes, there may be foreign transaction fees, currency conversion charges, and ATM withdrawal fees when using your card in India. These fees vary depending on the type of card and transaction.
3. Can I earn rewards when using my Emirates NBD credit card in India?
Yes, you can earn rewards points for every purchase made in India, which can be redeemed for various benefits such as travel tickets, shopping vouchers, and more.
4. Do I need to notify Emirates NBD before traveling to India?
It’s recommended to inform Emirates NBD about your travel plans to prevent any disruptions in card usage due to fraud alerts.
5. Are Emirates NBD Skywards credit cards accepted in India?
Yes, Emirates NBD Skywards credit cards are accepted in India and can also help you earn Skywards miles for purchases made in the country.
