Buying a Mobile on Installments in the UAE (Tabby & Tamara)
Most large UAE electronics retailers let you split a phone's price into monthly payments at checkout through providers such as Tabby and Tamara. Here is how these plans generally work.
How split-payment plans work
- You choose the installment option at the retailer's checkout (online or in store) and the provider pays the retailer in full.
- The most common structure splits the price into 4 monthly payments; longer plans (6–12 months) exist at some retailers for larger amounts.
- Both providers advertise their standard 4-payment plans as interest-free when payments are made on time; late payments can attract fees under the provider's terms.
- Approval is usually instant but is the provider's decision, based on their checks.
Who can use them
Typically you must be a UAE resident of legal age with a valid Emirates ID and a local debit or credit card. Exact eligibility is set by the provider and can change — confirm on the provider's app or website before relying on a plan.
Smart checks before you split
- Compare the total you will pay against the one-time verified price on this site — the phone price itself should be the same.
- Note the due dates; late fees are where "interest-free" stops being free.
- Retailer bank offers (0% plans on specific credit cards) can beat app plans for big flagships — compare both.
Start from a verified price: UAE mobile price list · best mobiles under AED 1,000.