Money, Currency and Cards in United Arab Emirates
Local Currency
UAE Dirham (AED)
General Advice
Money is available in all major city’s from ATM machines and the numerous banks; most people travel with a mixture of US$ cash and their debit and credit cards as ATMs are widely available in larger towns and cities.
Money Exchange
All banks in the UAE have banks with a bureau de change facility and changing cash poses no problems. It can be more difficult to change travellers' cheques as these are rapidly losing their appeal given the widespread use of debit and credit cards.
ATM Availability
Widely available throughout the Emirates. Ensure that sufficient funds are obtained before setting off to more remote areas of the country. For more information check the Visa ATM locator, the MasterCard ATM locator or the American Express ATM locator for the addresses of ATMs around the world.
Credit Cards
Widely accepted shops, hotels and restaurants. You can also check the Visa, MasterCard or American Express locator pages.
Travellers Cheques
Travellers’ cheques are accepted by banks but less so by shops and restaurants. Avoid if possible.
Other Information
UAE Dhiram AEDO1 = 100 fils. Banknotes are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 dhirams. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 fils and 1 dhiram.
