Country Currency

United Arab Emirates Currency

The UAE dirham is the official currency of the United Arab Emirates.

RegionMiddle East & Africa
Central bankCentral Bank of the United Arab Emirates

Country money overview

Currency arrangements

Official currencyUnited Arab Emirates Dirham (AED, د.إ)
Central bankCentral Bank of the United Arab Emirates
Currency arrangementUnited Arab Emirates uses AED as official currency.

Paying in the United Arab Emirates

Cash, cards and local payments

Cash use

UAE dirhams remain the unit for cash purchases and local pricing.

Card acceptance

The Central Bank of the UAE oversees retail payment systems that include card, transfer and direct-debit services.

Contactless payments

Contactless acceptance is provided through participating card networks, banks and merchants rather than guaranteed at every business.

ATM availability

ATMs are widely connected through the banking system; foreign-card access and fees depend on the operator and issuer.

Travel money guidance

Planning a conversion

Before travel

Compare the final dirham amount offered by banks, exchange houses, cards and ATMs, including every disclosed fee.

ATM and foreign-card fees

A foreign issuer and a local ATM or merchant can apply separate charges or conversion margins.

Exchange-rate information is provided for reference only and is not financial, trading or investment advice.

Sources and review

Rate data and official references

FAQ

United Arab Emirates currency questions

Which currency is used in the United Arab Emirates?

The UAE dirham is the official currency of the United Arab Emirates.

Does the United Arab Emirates have multiple official currencies?

The United Arab Emirates has one official currency: the UAE dirham (AED).

How can I compare the UAE dirham?

Use the conversion links on this page to compare the United Arab Emirates' official currency with other major currencies.