Traveling with an Amex - will I be able to use it widely in UAEor should I carry a backup Visa/Mastercard?
Been living in UAE for a year - Amex works in big-name stores and luxury hotels, but I wouldn’t use it as your main card. Even places that technically accept it sometimes have “network issues” and will ask for Visa instead. Careem rides, small restaurants, pharmacy chains - most prefer Visa/Mastercard. ATMs like Emirates NBD or ADCB rarely support Amex. I always recommend carrying both Amex and a Visa/Mastercard for full coverage.
I used my Amex card mostly for hotel bookings online, but in person, it's hit or miss in Dubai. Shops in the Marina accepted it, but local eateries in Al Rigga didn’t. Had the same issue at two ATMs - wouldn't even let me proceed. Luckily, I had a Monzo Visa on hand. Bottom line: Amex is accepted in upscale places, but don’t depend on it for everyday use. Have a Visa/Mastercard ready for everything else.
Living in Abu Dhabi for 2 months and tested my Amex across cafes, coworking spots, and shops - acceptance is inconsistent. Big malls and luxury restaurants usually take it, but smaller vendors or taxi apps like Careem often don’t. Even some ATMs reject it. My Wise Mastercard worked everywhere, while Amex got declined half the time. So if you’re asking “Can I use Amex in UAE?”, the answer is yes sometimes, but you definitely need a backup Visa or Mastercard.
I brought my Amex to Dubai and was shocked how many places didn't accept it. Tried using it in a few grocery stores and restaurants in Deira - no luck. Even some mid-range hotels said “Visa or Mastercard only.” I ended up relying on my Wise Visa for most stuff. You might get away with Amex in high-end spots or chains, but for daily spending, carry a Visa or Mastercard as backup or you’ll be stuck.