What is the currency in Dubai? Find out what you will pay with in the UAE

What to pay with in Dubai? Basic information

The official currency in Dubai, as well as throughout the United Arab Emirates, is the UAE dirham (AED). It is an abbreviation of the full name: ‘United Arab Emirates dirham’ - in English UAE dirham. The international symbol for this currency is AED, although you will sometimes see the symbol DH or DHS.

When planning your budget, it is worth remembering that there are plenty of attractions waiting for you in Dubai. As a Polish travel agency, we offer the cheapest attractions in Dubai. On our website you will find suggestions for tours and activities that will allow you to fully experience the luxury of this city. Dirhams will come in handy especially for buying local souvenirs, while you will be able to pay by card in the luxury shopping mall. With the right budget, you will be free to enjoy an unforgettable experience.

The best currency to take on your trip - how to pay in Dubai?

As you get down to planning your budget for your trip, you will no doubt be wondering what currency to take to Dubai. The best choice would be to have US dollars or euros, which you can easily exchange on the spot for UAE dirhams.

Where is the best place to exchange currency in Dubai? Exchange offices or banks?

If you already have foreign currency with you, such as euros or dollars, it's worth knowing how to exchange currency in Dubai and where to do it. The most popular places are:

• Currency exchange bureaux - you will find these in shopping malls, the airport and tourist centres.
   
• Banks - also offer currency exchange, but their opening hours are more limited compared to exchange offices.
   
• Currency exchange machines - a modern solution that is becoming increasingly popular in Dubai.

It is worth bearing in mind that exchange rates can vary from place to place, so it is a good idea to compare offers before making a transaction. Currency exchange in Dubai is readily available, and the rates charged at bureaux de change in the larger shopping malls are often more favourable than at the airport.

What is the exchange rate of the dirham against the euro and the dollar?

The exchange rate in Dubai depends on current market conditions, but as mentioned earlier, the AED exchange rate against the US dollar is fixed at around AED 3.67 per US$1. The rate against the Euro is sometimes volatile and it is worth checking current quotes before exchanging.

Can you pay by card in Dubai?

Dubai is a modern city and accepts credit and debit card payments in most places, including restaurants, hotels, shops and when using transport. Paying in Dubai by card is a convenient option, but it is worth checking beforehand if your bank charges currency conversion fees or foreign transaction fees.

Popular cards include Visa, Mastercard and American Express, but some places may only accept local forms of payment, so it's a good idea to carry cash in AED just in case.

Can you pay with cryptocurrencies in Dubai?

While cryptocurrencies are growing in popularity, there is limited acceptance in Dubai. Some exclusive hotels, shops or restaurants may accept payment in bitcoin, but this is not a widely available option. It is advisable to carry cash or a payment card, as they are much more versatile.

Key information about payments in Dubai

When planning a trip to Dubai, it's worth knowing the basics of payment and currency exchange. The currency in Dubai is the UAE dirham (AED), and the most convenient payment methods are cash and payment cards. Exchanging currency in Dubai is straightforward and most bureaux de change offer attractive rates, especially in major shopping malls. Also remember to check your bank's currency conversion fees if you plan to use your card. Dubai is a modern city that attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. Check out Two Continents, to discover what Dubai has to offer.

Questions and answers - FAQs

• What currency is used to pay in Dubai?

In Dubai, in addition to dirhams (AED), you can also pay in US dollars (USD) and euros (EUR), but only in selected places such as hotels and larger shops.

• Is it possible to pay with a credit card in Dubai?

Yes, you can pay by credit card in Dubai in most places.

• Are dollars or euros accepted in Dubai?

Yes, dollars and euros are accepted in Dubai in some places, but mostly the local currency, the dirham, is preferred.

• How much money can I bring to Dubai?

A maximum of €10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies can be brought into Dubai without a declaration at the border.

• Is it worth exchanging currency before travelling to Dubai?

Yes, although exchange offices in Dubai offer competitive rates, so some cash can be exchanged on the spot.