Abu Dhabi:Etihad Credit Bureau has announced the launch of its next-generation Credit Score 3i at its new Abu Dhabi office. The new model signifies a major shift in credit scoring methodologies, reflecting the changing financial landscape and the increasing variety of credit products and consumer borrowing patterns in the UAE.
According to Emirates News Agency, the enhanced Credit Score 3i model evaluates individuals' credit behavior over a period of up to 36 months, an increase from the previous 24 months, using a broader range of indicators related to financial obligations and repayment patterns. This allows for a more comprehensive view of credit behavior over time, facilitating a deeper understanding of credit profiles and enabling more informed risk assessments.
The new model also serves individuals who are new to credit or new to the country with limited credit histories through two distinct scoring models. It benefits individuals with established credit histories as well as newcomers, helping them understand factors that influence their credit profiles and make informed financial decisions. The model provides banks and financial institutions with expanded credit information to support credit decisions and risk assessments, also benefiting sectors like SMEs, entrepreneurship, and real estate.
The launch builds on Etihad Credit Bureau’s decade-long efforts in developing the UAE's credit information ecosystem, responding to the increasing diversity of financial products and services. Marwan Ahmad Lutfi, Director General of Etihad Credit Bureau, highlighted that the Credit Score 3i offers deeper insights into credit behavior over longer periods and expands credit scoring to additional eligible segments. It introduces scoring ranges of 300-850 for individuals with established credit histories and 300-650 for those with limited credit histories.
Credit Score 3i also recognizes improvements in credit behavior, potentially reflecting them in scores within six months after defaults are resolved. It provides analysis of factors influencing scores, with recommendations for improvement. Users can access their Credit Scores via the Etihad Credit Bureau's website or mobile app and are encouraged to regularly review their credit information.
The UAE’s credit information ecosystem has grown significantly, with Etihad Credit Bureau’s database covering 11.6 million individuals and businesses and issuing over 17 million Credit Reports and Scores by 2025. The Bureau also expanded credit reporting in 2026 to include BNPL accounts and other short-term credit products, enhancing the view of financial obligations and the growth of digital credit products in the UAE.
Source Wam
