Etihad Credit Bureau has launched Credit Score 3i, a next-generation credit scoring model designed to provide a broader assessment of individuals’ financial behavior and improve credit risk evaluation in the UAE.
The updated model was announced at the Bureau’s new Abu Dhabi office. It extends the credit behavior assessment period from 24 months to 36 months. It also expands coverage to eligible individuals who are new to credit and newcomers to the UAE with limited credit histories.
The new model uses a broader range of indicators related to financial obligations and repayment patterns to provide a more comprehensive picture of an individual’s credit profile.
It introduces two scoring ranges based on customers’ credit histories. Individuals with established credit histories will have scores ranging from 300 to 850. In contrast, eligible individuals who are new to credit or new to the UAE with limited credit histories will have a separate range of 300 to 650.
The updated system also recognizes improvements in credit behavior. Individuals who settle defaults and subsequently maintain consistent repayments and responsible financial practices may see improvements reflected in their credit scores within six months.
However, a score increase during this period is not guaranteed. Further defaults or negative developments in an individual’s credit history could affect progress.
Also Read: AI Chatbot Security Risks: How Conversational AI Can be Misused and Prevented
Marwan Ahmad Lutfi, Director General of Etihad Credit Bureau, said Credit Score 3i advances the use of data and analytics to support comprehensive credit risk assessments, improve financial sector efficiency and encourage responsible credit practices.
He added that the model provides deeper insights into credit behavior and helps individuals understand the factors affecting their scores. Credit reports will also identify positive and negative factors and offer recommendations that may help improve scores.
For banks, financial institutions, eligible fintech companies and digital platforms, the updated model provides additional information to support lending decisions and risk management. However, lending decisions will continue to depend on individual lenders’ policies and assessment criteria.
As of September 2026, Etihad Credit Bureau’s database covered approximately 11.6 million individuals and businesses, 20.2 million active credit contracts and 25.3 million active International Bank Account Numbers (IBANs).
The Bureau issued more than 17 million credit reports and scores in 2025, compared with approximately one million in 2015. In 2026, it also expanded credit reporting to include Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) accounts and other short-term credit products.
Individuals can access their credit scores through the Bureau’s official website or its mobile application, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.