In a significant move to support financial recovery, the Etihad Credit Bureau (ECB) has launched "Credit Score 3i," a revamped assessment system that allows UAE residents to begin rebuilding their credit standing just six months after a default. Previously, those who faced financial setbacks could remain trapped in a low credit category for up to two years. By extending the behavioral assessment window from 24 to 36 months, this new model differentiates between isolated financial hurdles and chronic payment issues, rewarding those who demonstrate consistent repayment discipline with a much faster path to rehabilitation.

Beyond faster recovery, the system introduces a dedicated tier for newcomers to the UAE or those new to credit, providing them with an initial score within one month. The bureau has also made financial transparency more accessible by slashing the cost of obtaining a credit score from Dh30 to Dh10 and integrating a feature that allows users to see exactly which factors—such as missed payments or "buy now, pay later" usage—are influencing their rating. By encouraging more frequent monitoring through their mobile app, the ECB aims to empower residents to take proactive control of their financial health while fostering a more inclusive and accurate credit landscape across the nation.