Debt Burden Ratio (DBR) Calculator
Find out how much of your income goes on debt — and how much room you have left before hitting the UAE Central Bank's 50% limit.
Your debt burden ratio
20.0%
Within the 50% Central Bank limit.
- Credit card commitment (5% of limits)
- AED 1,500
- Total monthly commitments
- AED 4,000
- Maximum allowed (50% of income)
- AED 10,000
- Room for new monthly repayments
- AED 6,000
Tip: cancelling credit cards you don't use, or lowering their limits, frees up DBR — banks count 5% of every limit even on cards with a zero balance.
Planning to apply for a card? Once you know your headroom, compare cards by salary requirement on our AED 5,000 salary cards page or all UAE credit cards.
Frequently asked questions
What is the debt burden ratio (DBR)?▾
DBR is the share of your monthly income that goes on debt repayments. UAE Central Bank rules cap it at 50% — if a new loan or card would push you above that, the bank must decline it.
How do credit cards affect my DBR?▾
Banks typically count 5% of each card's total credit limit as a monthly commitment, even if you don't use the card. A card with a AED 40,000 limit adds AED 2,000 a month to your DBR.
How can I lower my DBR?▾
Close cards you don't use or reduce their limits, pay off or consolidate small loans, or add a co-applicant's income where the bank allows it. Settling a loan early also frees up DBR immediately.
Is DBR the same as my AECB credit score?▾
No. DBR measures affordability from your income and commitments, while the AECB score (300–900) reflects your repayment history. Banks check both before approving credit.
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Results are estimates for guidance only and don't constitute financial advice. Confirm exact figures with your bank or employer.