Personal Loans
· Updated · Networthfy Editorial

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Debunking Personal Loan Myths: What You Really Need to Know

Uncover the truths behind common personal loan misconceptions. From APR myths to credit score impacts, here's what you need to know before signing on the dotted line.

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Debunking Common Myths About Personal Loans

Let's dive into some widely held myths about personal loans, starting with the most surprising one.

Examining loan options

Myth 1: The Lowest APR is Always the Best Deal

Many assume that a lower APR is the ultimate goal when selecting a personal loan. While a 5.99% APR may appear attractive, it often hides additional costs like origination fees. For instance, the RAKBANK Personal Loan offers competitive rates, but the total cost should include any associated fees.

RAKBANK Personal Loan

RAKBANK offers competitive rates, but always check for additional fees that might affect the total cost.

Best Value

RAKBANK Personal Loan

4.75%
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Myth 2: Bad Credit Means No Loan

It's a common belief that bad credit scores shut the door on personal loans. However, options exist for scores under 580. The Dubai Islamic Bank Personal Finance is designed to accommodate a range of credit profiles, thanks to its flexible Islamic financing structure.

Dubai Islamic Bank Personal Finance

Dubai Islamic Bank offers personal finance options that are inclusive for various credit scores.

Most Flexible

Dubai Islamic Bank Personal Finance

5.99%
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Myth 3: Personal Loans Require Collateral

The misconception that personal loans always require collateral is outdated. Unsecured loans, like the Mbank Personal Loan, don't necessitate assets to back them up, offering flexibility without risking personal property.

Mbank Personal Loan

Mbank provides unsecured personal loans, offering financial flexibility without collateral requirements.

Editor's Pick

Mbank Personal Loan

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Myth 4: Personal Loans Hurt Your Credit Score

While it's true that applying for a loan can result in a hard inquiry, the long-term effects on your credit score can be positive if managed well. Regular payments on a loan from HSBC UAE can improve your credit score over time.

HSBC UAE Personal Loan

HSBC UAE offers loans that, when paid on time, can help improve your credit score.

Best for Credit Building

HSBC UAE Personal Loan

7%
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Myth 5: Only Banks Offer Personal Loans

While banks are traditional lenders, peer-to-peer lending platforms and online lenders like Emirates NBD also provide competitive personal loan options. These alternatives often come with lower fees and more flexible terms.

Emirates NBD Personal Loan

Emirates NBD offers personal loans with competitive rates, available both online and through traditional banking.

Fastest Approval

Emirates NBD Personal Loan

5.48%
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Understanding these myths is crucial for making informed borrowing decisions. If you're ready to explore your options further, consider our full breakdown in Find Your Perfect Personal Loan This Spring.

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APR

4.7–12.75%

Amount

د.إ15k–د.إ5M

Term

6–60mo

  • approved employer list for headline rates
  • salary transfer to FAB
  • credit score and affordability assessment
loan calculator available instantly, final offer after affordability assessment Check rates

APR

5.48–20.99%

Amount

د.إ10k–د.إ4M

Term

12–48mo

  • UAE national or UAE resident
  • age 21 to 60
  • minimum salary AED 5,000

APR

Amount

د.إ10k–د.إ250k

Term

12–48mo

  • salary transfer to Mbank
  • minimum monthly salary AED 10,000
  • age 21+
digital application through the Mbank app with app-based follow-up Check rates

APR

7.0%

Amount

د.إ25k–د.إ750k

Term

12–48mo

  • UAE national or resident
  • age 21 to 65
  • monthly income from AED 7,500 at approved companies or AED 12,500 otherwise
callback-led application, decision after eligibility and salary-transfer verification Check rates

APR

4.75–14.0%

Amount

د.إ10k–د.إ2.2M

Term

12–48mo

  • salary transfer to RAKBANK
  • minimum AECB score 541
  • minimum monthly salary AED 5,000
swift approval, reduced processing fees for digital applications Check rates

APR

7.25%

Amount

د.إ10k–د.إ2M

Term

6–48mo

  • salary transfer to Mashreq
  • minimum monthly salary AED 5,000 for approved companies
  • AED 8,000 for unapproved companies

APR

5.99–14.0%

Amount

د.إ10k–د.إ2.2M

Term

6–48mo

  • salary transfer to ADCB
  • UAE national or resident
  • minimum AECB score of 541
decision within 7 working days, TouchPoints loyalty rewards included Check rates

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