5 Steps to Cancel FAB Credit Card Fast & Easily (2025 Guide)

Do you need to cancel FAB credit card in the UAE? This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the cancellation process, from clearing dues to obtaining your No Liability Certificate.

Why Cancel Your FAB Credit Card?

High Annual Fees Without Benefits

FAB credit cards typically charge annual fees ranging from AED 200 to AED 600, depending on the card tier. If you rarely use your card, these recurring charges add up quickly without providing value.

Better Credit Card Offers in the UAE Market

The UAE banking sector is highly competitive. Many banks now offer:

• 0% annual fee credit cards
• Up to 5% cashback on specific categories
• Free airport lounge access
• Higher reward points per AED spent

Switching to a better card can save you hundreds of dirhams annually.

Simplifying Financial Management

Research shows that managing multiple credit cards increases the risk of:

• Missed payment deadlines
• Higher debt accumulation
• Credit score damage
• Financial stress

Canceling unused cards helps maintain better financial control.

Relocating Outside the UAE

If you’re leaving the UAE permanently, closing your FAB credit card prevents:

• Continued annual fee charges
• Potential fraud on an unmonitored account
• Complications with future UAE banking

Fab Credit Card Pre-Cancellation Checklist

1. Clear All Outstanding Balances

Critical: FAB will NOT process cancellation requests with pending dues.

Check for:

• Current statement balance
• Unbilled transactions (recent purchases)
• Installment plans (EMI)
• Annual fees are due within 30 days
• Late payment charges
• Foreign currency transactions pending conversion

How to check: Log into FAB Mobile App → Statements → View Outstanding Amount

2. Redeem Rewards & Loyalty Points

FAB credit cards offer various reward programs:

• FAB Rewards Points (expire upon cancellation)
• Cashback accumulated in your account
• Air Miles or travel points
• Partner program benefits (hotels, dining)

Important: You typically have 0 days after cancellation to redeem points – they expire immediately.

Redemption options:

• Convert to cashback (usually 100 points = AED 1)
• Use for purchases at partner merchants
• Transfer to airline miles
• Redeem for vouchers

3. Update Automatic Payments & Standing Instructions

Before canceling, identify and update any recurring payments linked to your FAB card:

Common automatic payments:

• Utility bills (DEWA, SEWA, ADDC)
• Telecom services (Du, Etisalat)
• Streaming subscriptions (Netflix, OSN, Shahid)
• Insurance premiums
• Gym memberships
• School fees installments

Action required: Switch these to another payment method at least 5 days before cancellation.

4. Review Card Agreement Terms

Check your original agreement for:

• Early cancellation penalties (usually within the first 6 months)
• Minimum usage requirements
• Special promotional offers with clawback clauses
• Joint cardholder obligations

Where to find: FAB Mobile App → Documents → Card Agreement

5. Check Credit Score Impact

Your current credit score: Check at Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB) before canceling.

Cancellation affects:

• Credit utilization ratio (if this is your only card)
• Average account age
• Credit mix diversity

Best practice: If this is your oldest or only credit card, consider keeping it active or applying for a replacement before canceling.

5 Ways to Cancel FAB Credit Card 

Method 1: Cancel Through FAB Mobile App (Fastest)

Processing time: 1-2 business days

Steps:

1. Download FAB Mobile App (iOS/Android)
2. Log in with credentials
3. Tap “Cards” on the home screen
4. Select your credit card
5. Scroll down to “Card Services”
6. Tap “Cancel Card”
7. Select reason for cancellation (optional)
8. Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile
9. Confirm cancellation request
10. Screenshot confirmation number

Confirmation: You’ll receive an SMS within 24 hours with a reference number.

Method 2: Cancel via FAB Online Banking

Processing time: 1-3 business days

Steps:

1. Visit www.fab.ae
2. Log in to Online Banking
3. Navigate to the “My Cards” section
4. Click on your credit card account
5. Select “Manage Card”
6. Choose “Request Cancellation”
7. Fill the cancellation form with:
   • Reason for closure
   • Preferred contact method
   • Confirmation of zero balance
8. Submit a digital signature or OTP
9. Download confirmation email

Document provided: PDF confirmation sent to registered email.

Method 3: Cancel by Phone (24/7 Available)

Processing time: 2-5 business days

FAB Customer Service Numbers:

• From UAE: 600 523 500
• International: +971 2 311 4444
• Premium Banking: 800 3000

Required information:

• Full name as per Emirates ID
• Credit card number (last 4 digits)
• Emirates ID number
• Date of birth
• Registered mobile number
• Account password or security answer

Call process:

1. Call FAB customer service
2. Select language (Arabic/English)
3. Press 2 for Credit Cards
4. Press 5 for Cancellation
5. Speak with the agent and verify identity
6. Request card cancellation
7. Note down reference number (critical!)
8. Ask for email confirmation

Best time to call: 9 AM – 11 AM on weekdays (shortest wait times)

Method 4: Visit FAB Branch (In-Person Support)

Processing time: Same day to 1 week

Documents required:

• Original Emirates ID
• Physical credit card (to be surrendered)
• Latest credit card statement (if available)
• Passport copy (for expats)

Branch process:

1. Visit the nearest FAB branch during working hours
2. Take a token for Customer Service
3. Inform the staff that you want to cancel the credit card
4. Fill Credit Card Closure Request Form
5. Provide documents for verification
6. Staff will check for pending dues
7. Sign cancellation declaration
8. Receive stamped acknowledgment copy
9. Request No Liability Certificate (separate request)

Working hours: Sunday-Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM (most branches)

Find nearest branch: Use FAB Mobile App → Locations or visit www.fab.ae/branches

Method 5: Email Request (Slowest Option)

Processing time: 5-10 business days

Email address: customercare@fab.ae

Email format:

Subject: Credit Card Cancellation Request – [Your Name]

Dear FAB Customer Service,

I request cancellation of my FAB credit card with the following details:

– Cardholder Name: [Full Name]

– Card Number: [Last 4 digits only]

– Emirates ID: [Number]

– Registered Mobile: [Number]

– Reason for Cancellation: [Brief reason]

I confirm that all outstanding dues have been cleared and my current balance is zero.

Please process my request and send confirmation to this email address.

Regards,

[Your Name]

[Signature]

Attach:

• Copy of Emirates ID (both sides)
• Copy of the latest statement showing zero balance

Follow-up: Call customer service after 3 days if no response.

Step-by-Step Cancellation Process for Fab Card 

Step 1: Audit Your Credit Card Account (2-3 days before)

Create a checklist:

• [ ] Download the last 6 months of statements
• [ ] List all pending transactions
• [ ] Calculate total outstanding (including unbilled)
• [ ] Check reward points balance
• [ ] List automatic payments
• [ ] Verify annual fee status

Step 2: Make Final Payment (5 days before cancellation)

Payment methods:

• Bank transfer from FAB savings account
• Cash deposit at the FAB branch
• Online payment via the FAB app
• Standing instruction from another bank

Important: Wait for payment to reflect (1-2 business days) before requesting cancellation.

Step 3: Redeem All Benefits (3 days before)

Rewards redemption:

• Log in to the FAB Rewards portal
• Check points balance
• Select redemption option
• Allow 2-3 days for processing

Cashback withdrawal:

• Accumulated cashback is usually auto-credited
• Verify in your statement

Step 4: Update Recurring Payments (Same day)

Switch all automatic payments to an alternative payment method. Test the new payment method before canceling the card.

Step 5: Submit Cancellation Request

Choose your preferred method (app, online, phone, or branch) and follow the specific steps outlined above.

Step 6: Obtain Written Confirmation (Within 24 hours)

Must receive:

• Cancellation reference number
• Email or SMS confirmation
• Expected completion date

If not received within 24 hours: Contact customer service immediately.

Step 7: Request No Liability Certificate (After 7-10 days)

Once cancellation is complete, formally request the No Liability Certificate:

Request methods:

• At the FAB branch (instant issuance)
• Via customer service call
• Through online banking (download portal)

Step 8: Destroy the Physical Card Safely

Proper disposal:

1. Cut through the magnetic stripe
2. Cut through the chip
3. Cut card number
4. Cut the CVV number
5. Dispose of pieces in separate trash bins

Never: Throw away an intact card, even if canceled.

Step 9: Monitor Credit Report (After 30 days)

Check your AECB credit report to confirm:

• Card shows as “Closed”
• No outstanding balance reported
• No negative remarks

How to check: Visit www.aecb.gov.ae or download the AECB app

Processing Time & Fees Explained 

Standard Cancellation Timeline

Method	Processing Time	Confirmation
FAB Mobile App	1-2 business days	Instant SMS
Online Banking	1-3 business days	Email within 24h
Phone Call	2-5 business days	SMS + Email
Branch Visit	Same day to 1 week	Stamped receipt
Email Request	5-10 business days	Reply email

Factors That Delay Cancellation

Common delays (add 5-15 days):

• Pending disputes or chargebacks
• Unreversed transactions
• Outstanding EMI installments
• Annual fee just charged (requires refund processing)
• Linked supplementary cards have not been canceled
• Insurance or protection plans are active
• Missing documentation
• Incorrect account details provided

How to avoid delays:

• Clear all dues 7 days before cancellation
• Cancel supplementary cards first
• Provide complete, accurate information
• Follow up after 3 days

Cancellation Fees & Charges

Standard cancellation: FREE (AED 0)

Possible charges:

• Early cancellation fee: AED 250-500 (if canceled within the first 6 months and promotional benefits were used)
• Outstanding annual fee: Must pay if due within 30 days
• Late payment charges: Any accumulated penalties
• Foreign transaction fees: On pending international purchases

Refundable charges:

• Pro-rated annual fee (if canceled mid-year and the fee was recently paid)
• Unused travel insurance premium

Request a refund: Call customer service within 7 days of cancellation.

Credit Score Impact Analysis

Immediate effects:

• Credit utilization may increase (if you have other cards)
• Total available credit decreases
• One less active account

Long-term effects:

• Account age impact (if the oldest card)
• Minimal impact if you maintain other cards responsibly
• Can improve if you were carrying high balances

Best for credit score: Keep credit utilization below 30% on remaining cards.

No Liability Certificate: Complete Guide 

What Is a No Liability Certificate?

A No Liability Certificate (NLC) is an official document from FAB confirming:

• Your credit card account is fully closed
• Zero outstanding balance
• No pending charges or dues
• Clean account settlement

Also known as: Liability Clearance Letter, Settlement Certificate

Why You Must Get This Certificate

Essential for:

1. Future loan applications – Banks require proof of closed accounts
2. New credit card applications – Shows clean credit history
3. Visa cancellation – May be required for exit from the UAE
4. Employment verification – Some employers check financial clearances
5. Personal records – Proof of responsible credit management
6. Legal protection – Prevents future liability claims

Real scenario: Many users face issues when applying for mortgages because old closed cards still show liabilities without proper closure certificates.

How to Request a No Liability Certificate

Timeline: Request 7-10 days after cancellation confirmation.

Option 1: Request at FAB Branch

Process:

1. Visit the FAB branch with your Emirates ID
2. Fill out the “No Liability Certificate Request Form.”
3. Provide cancellation reference number
4. Certificate issued within 30 minutes to 3 days
5. Can be collected in person or mailed to the address

Fees: Usually free, some branches charge AED 25-50 for express issuance

Option 2: Request via Customer Service

Steps:

1. Call 600 523 500
2. Provide card details and cancellation reference
3. Request No Liability Certificate
4. Certificate sent to registered email within 5-7 days
5. Physical copy mailed if requested (additional 5 days)

Option 3: Download via Online Banking

If available:

1. Log in to FAB Online Banking
2. Go to “Documents” or “Certificates”
3. Select “No Liability Certificate”
4. Enter closed card details
5. Download PDF (digitally signed)

Note: Not all banks offer digital NLC – may need a branch visit.

Sample No Liability Certificate Format

Certificate includes:

• Bank letterhead and logo
• Certificate number
• Issue date
• Cardholder’s full name and Emirates ID
• Credit card number (last 4 digits)
• Account closure date
• Statement: “No outstanding dues or liabilities”
• Bank official signature and stamp
• Valid for a specific purpose or general use

Keep: Original physical copy + scanned PDF copy in secure storage.

How Long to Keep the Certificate

Recommended: 7 years minimum

Why:

• UAE financial records retention period
• Future loan applications may require historical proof
• Legal disputes can arise years later
• Employment background checks

Storage: Keep a physical copy in a safe, and a digital copy in an encrypted cloud storage.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Issue 1: Cancellation Request Rejected

Reasons:

• Outstanding balance still showing
• Recent transaction pending settlement
• Supplementary cards have not been canceled
• The annual fee has just been charged

Solution:

1. Check online banking for the exact balance
2. Wait 3-5 days for pending transactions to clear
3. Cancel all supplementary cards first
4. Pay any fees before resubmitting the request

Issue 2: Charges Appear After Cancellation

Common post-cancellation charges:

• Recurring subscriptions are not updated
• Foreign transaction fees on old purchases
• Late fee on final bill
• Annual fee reversal delay

Action:

1. Contact the merchant to stop the recurring charge
2. Dispute the charge with FAB within 30 days
3. Request reversal with proof of cancellation
4. Escalate to the Central Bank of the UAE if unresolved

Issue 3: No Confirmation Received

If no confirmation after 48 hours:

Steps:

1. Check spam/junk email folder
2. Call customer service with your reference number
3. Request to resend confirmation
4. Visit the branch if still unresolved

Issue 4: Certificate Denied

Reasons for denial:

• Cancellation not fully processed
• System showing pending amount
• Technical error in the bank system

Solution:

1. Request an account statement showing a zero balance
2. Escalate to the branch manager
3. File a formal complaint at fab.ae/complaints
4. Contact the Central Bank UAE Consumer Protection if needed

FAQs about How to Cancel FAB Credit Card

Alternative Options Before Canceling

Consider These Options First:

1. Downgrade to No-Fee Card

• Convert to FAB Basic Card (no annual fee)
• Keep the account history intact
• Maintain a credit score

2. Request Fee Waiver

• Call and negotiate the annual fee removal
• Cite competing offers
• High-spending customers often get waivers

3. Suspend Card Temporarily

• Put the card on hold instead of canceling it.
• Reactivate when needed
• No impact on credit score

4. Convert to Prepaid Card

• No credit check required
• No annual fee
• Control spending better

Final Tips for Safe Cancellation

Do:

• Clear all dues 7 days before cancellation
• Redeem rewards immediately
• Update all automatic payments
• Keep the cancellation confirmation
• Request No Liability Certificate
• Monitor the credit report after 30 days
• Destroy the physical card properly
  Don’t:
• Cancel with pending balance
• Forget supplementary cards
• Ignore recurring payments
• Throw away confirmation documents
• Skip No Liability Certificate
• Assume cancellation is instant

Need Help? Contact FAB

Customer Service:

• Phone: 600 523 500 (UAE)
• International: +971 2 311 4444
• Email: customercare@fab.ae
• Website: www.fab.ae

Complaints:

• Online: www.fab.ae/complaints
• Central Bank UAE: 800 CBUAE (22823)

Branch Locator:

• FAB Mobile App → Locations
• www.fab.ae/branches

Conclusion

Canceling your FAB credit card is straightforward when you follow the proper process. Always clear dues first, redeem rewards, obtain written confirmation, and secure your No Liability Certificate.

Choose the cancellation method that best fits your needs – whether that’s the quick mobile app option or in-person branch support. Keep all documentation for future reference and protect your credit score by managing the cancellation responsibly. Visit our website uaebalancecheck.com for more related guides.