What is the currency in Abu Dhabi?

What currency is used in Abu Dhabi

The currency in Abu Dhabi is the dirham. It is the official currency of the United Arab Emirates. It is valid in all seven emirates, so you don't have to worry about exchanging money when traveling around the country.

The dirham is abbreviated as AED and is divided into 100 fils. Banknotes in denominations from 5 to 1000 AED and coins of smaller values are in circulation. In practice, the most commonly used banknotes are 10, 20, 50, and 100 AED, which are ideal for everyday transactions.

What is very important for tourists is that its value is stable. The UAE dirham is closely linked to the US dollar. For many years, it has been trading at a fixed exchange rate of 1 US dollar to 3.6725 AED. This makes the dirham's exchange rate predictable, and market fluctuations do not have a sudden impact on prices.

What currency to take to Abu Dhabi

The most practical solution is to have the local currency, i.e., AED. The UAE currency is convenient for travelers, easily accessible, and accepted everywhere, from luxury hotels and restaurants to small service outlets.
Although euros and dollars are widely accepted in certain places, especially for international transactions, the exchange rate is usually less favorable. Sellers often use their own exchange rate, which does not correspond to the current market rate.

Currency exchange rate in Abu Dhabi for tourists

The exchange rate is of great importance to tourists. In Abu Dhabi, the situation is exceptionally transparent, as the dirham is stable. The dirham's exchange rate against other currencies, such as the euro or the zloty, is mainly determined by the relationship of these currencies to the dollar.
When planning your budget, it is a good idea to regularly check the current exchange rates in banking or currency exchange apps. This allows you to quickly assess the equivalent value of your expenses and better control your finances while traveling.

For most tourists, the AED exchange rate is favorable and predictable, which makes it easy to convert prices in shops and restaurants. This is one of the reasons why money in the United Arab Emirates is considered convenient to use.

Where to exchange money in Abu Dhabi

When it comes to currency exchange, Abu Dhabi offers many safe and reliable options. You can exchange currency both before your trip and on site, but it is the local exchange offices that often offer competitive rates.
The best places to exchange money are currency exchange offices in shopping centers, banks, and official exchange points in the city. The airport also offers currency exchange, but the rates there are often less favorable.
An alternative is to withdraw cash from local ATMs. There is no shortage of ATMs in large cities, at hotels, and in public places. This is a convenient way to access cash, although it is worth checking the bank fees.

When planning your stay in Abu Dhabi, don't forget to check the list of free attractions.

Payment methods in Abu Dhabi

Payment methods in Abu Dhabi are modern and very tourist-friendly. Card and cash payments are accepted in parallel, and the choice depends mainly on the place and type of purchase.
Payment cards are accepted almost everywhere - in shops, restaurants, hotels, tourist attractions, and shopping malls. Visa, Mastercard, and credit cards are the most common. Mobile payments such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also becoming increasingly popular.
Nevertheless, in smaller shops or service outlets, there are still situations where you have to pay in cash only. Therefore, it is most sensible to combine both methods.

Tips for tourists

• First of all, it is a good idea to always carry a small amount of cash in AED with you, especially for small purchases and services.
• Use banking apps to monitor transactions and check exchange rates in real time. If you plan to make frequent cashless payments, a Revolut card or similar solutions can significantly reduce currency conversion costs.
• Also, remember that the currency in the Emirates is stable and the financial system is secure, making Abu Dhabi a friendly destination even for less experienced travelers.

Summary

When traveling to Abu Dhabi, it is worth being well prepared financially. The official currency of the country is the dirham (AED) – stable, secure, and convenient to use. Because it is linked to the dollar and operates at a fixed exchange rate, it is easy to plan your expenses and control your budget.
Knowing what the currency is in Abu Dhabi, what payment methods are available, and where it is best to exchange money will make your trip more peaceful and free of unnecessary costs. This knowledge will make it easier to explore the United Arab Emirates and allow you to fully enjoy your stay.

While in Abu Dhabi, it is worth visiting Dubai - a futuristic city that you can explore with Two Continents.

Questions and answers

1. Can you pay with dollars or euros in Abu Dhabi?

In Abu Dhabi, you can pay with US dollars or euros in some places, mainly in hotels and tourist spots. However, it is important to remember that the exchange rate is usually less favorable, so it is best to use the local currency, the UAE dirham.

2. Is it better to pay by card or cash in Abu Dhabi?

In Abu Dhabi, it is best to use both cards and cash. Card payments are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, while cash is useful in smaller shops, taxis, and for small expenses. A combination of both forms provides the greatest convenience during your stay.

3. Can you withdraw cash from ATMs in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, you can easily withdraw cash from ATMs in Abu Dhabi, which are widely available in shopping malls, hotels, and public places. ATMs accept foreign payment cards, although it is worth checking your bank's fees in advance.

4. What is the dirham exchange rate in Abu Dhabi?

The dirham exchange rate in Abu Dhabi is stable because the UAE dirham is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of 1 USD ≈ 3.6725 AED. Currency exchange offices and banks allow you to quickly convert prices, and current exchange rates can be checked in banking apps or financial services.