Sharing Your Credit Card with Family? Here is Everything You Need to Know About Supplementary Cards in the UAE

Managing household finances often involves supporting family members with day-to-day expenses, travel bookings, education costs, or emergency purchases. Instead of sharing one physical card or making frequent transfers, many families choose to add their loved ones to their credit card account through a supplementary credit card.

Also known as an add-on credit card, a supplementary card allows eligible family members to enjoy the convenience of cashless payments while the primary cardholder maintains visibility over overall spending.

If you’re considering a supplementary credit card in the UAE, here’s everything you need to know.

What Is a Supplementary Credit Card?

A supplementary credit card is an additional card issued under an existing credit card account. It is linked directly to the primary cardholder’s account and uses the same overall credit limit.

The supplementary cardholder receives their own physical card and can use it for purchases just like the primary cardholder. However, the outstanding balance and repayment responsibility remain with the primary cardholder.

Supplementary cards are commonly issued to:

Spouses

Parents

Adult children aged 18 years and above

Siblings and other eligible immediate family members

Because all spending is consolidated under one account, supplementary cards can simplify financial management for families.

How Supplementary Credit Cards Work in the UAE

When a supplementary card is issued, both the primary and supplementary cards operate under a single credit card account.

Here’s how it typically works:

The primary cardholder applies for the supplementary card.

An additional card is issued under the family member’s name.

Transactions from all cards appear on one monthly statement.

The primary cardholder remains responsible for paying the full outstanding balance.

For example, if your total credit limit is AED 20,000, the available balance is shared between all cardholders linked to that account.

This allows families to manage expenses conveniently through a single account and statement.

Why Many Families Choose Supplementary Cards in the UAE

Convenience for Everyday Spending

Whether it is grocery shopping, school expenses, fuel purchases, or dining out, supplementary cards allow family members to make payments independently without needing to borrow the primary card.

Easier Household Budgeting

Since all transactions appear on a single statement, it becomes easier to understand where money is being spent and identify areas where savings can be made.

Instead of managing multiple cards and payment dates, families can monitor spending through one account.

Shared Access to Card Benefits

Depending on the card type, purchases made on supplementary cards may contribute towards the rewards earned on the primary card account.

This means the family’s combined spending may help maximise:

Cashback

Reward points

Travel benefits

Lifestyle privileges

Dining and shopping offers

Support for Children Studying Away from Home

Many parents provide supplementary cards to adult children attending university or living independently. This gives them access to funds when required while allowing parents to monitor overall spending.

Added Convenience for Elderly Parents

Supplementary cards can help elderly parents or dependents make purchases conveniently without relying on cash or repeated bank transfers.

Useful During Emergencies

Unexpected situations can arise at any time. Having access to a supplementary card can provide family members with financial flexibility when immediate expenses need to be covered.

Understanding Shared Credit Limits

One important point to remember is that supplementary cards do not have a separate credit limit.

The entire household shares the same approved limit under the primary account.

For example:

Total credit limit: AED 25,000

Primary cardholder spends AED 10,000

Supplementary cardholder spends AED 3,000

The remaining available balance for all cardholders would be AED 12,000.

Because everyone shares the same limit, communication and responsible spending are essential.

Things to Consider Before Applying

Although supplementary cards offer several advantages, they should be used responsibly.

The Primary Cardholder Is Responsible for Payments

Regardless of who makes the purchase, the primary cardholder is legally responsible for settling the outstanding balance.

Spending Habits Matter

Because the credit limit is shared, excessive spending by one cardholder can affect the available balance for everyone else.

Clear Communication Is Important

Families should discuss spending expectations and ensure all cardholders understand responsible credit card usage.

Timely Payments Remain Essential

Missing payments can result in late payment charges and may affect the primary cardholder’s credit profile.

Is a Supplementary Credit Card Right for You?

A supplementary credit card can be a practical financial tool for families seeking convenience, flexibility, and simplified expense management.

However, because the primary cardholder remains responsible for all transactions, it is important to ensure that everyone using the card understands the importance of responsible spending and timely repayments.

Apply for a Deem Supplementary Credit Card

Deem offers supplementary credit cards and Existing customers can apply through the below channels:

Deem Mobile App

Deem Customer Care – Contact us at 600 525550

To learn more, click here.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a supplementary credit card?

A supplementary credit card is an additional card linked to the primary cardholder’s account that allows eligible family members to make purchases using the same credit facility.

Can I set a separate spending limit for supplementary cardholders?

Supplementary cards are linked to the primary credit card account. Customers are encouraged to review the applicable card terms and conditions, or contact Deem for details regarding spending controls and limits.

Does a supplementary card earn cashback and rewards?

Depending on the card programme, purchases made on supplementary cards contribute towards the rewards or cashback earned on the primary account.

Who can apply for a supplementary credit card in the UAE?

At Deem, supplementary cards are available for eligible immediate family members aged 18 years and above.

Is there an additional fee for supplementary cards?

Fees and benefits may vary depending on the credit card product. Customers are encouraged to review the applicable product terms and conditions for complete details.