Which currency is used for payments in Dubai?

Travellers to Dubai will use the local currency: the dirham (AED). This official currency is used across all seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates and has existed since 1973. The value of the dirham is stable as it is pegged to the US dollar: 1 USD is always AED 3.67.

In March 2025, the dirham was visually updated with a new internationally recognised symbol: an uppercase 'D' with two horizontal lines, inspired by the UAE flag. This modern symbol is also intended for the digital dirham, which is set to launch at the end of 2025.

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For tourists, it is useful to know when it is better to pay with cash and when a card will suffice.

Credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Dubai, including shops, restaurants, and hotels. Mobile payments via Apple Pay or Google Pay are also widely available. You can easily live in Dubai without cash.

However, there are times when cash works better: in taxis without a card machine (which is quite rare), at local markets, or for tips. Small notes of AED 10, 20, or 50 are useful in these situations, as giving change for larger amounts is often difficult.

Ensure you have dirhams with you

Although some tourist locations such as hotels or airports may also accept euros or dollars, the exchange rates there are unfavourable. You will pay more and receive your change in dirhams. It is therefore wiser to exchange money locally. The best exchange rates can be found in large shopping centres such as Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, or in neighbourhoods like Deira or Bur Dubai. Avoid exchange bureaus at the airport or in hotels, as you will usually pay too much.

Withdrawing money from an ATM is also an option, although there may be additional fees for international transactions. Check your bank's terms and conditions in advance, or use a multi-currency card such as Wise or Revolut for better rates. At the ATM, always choose to be charged in dirhams (and not in euros), otherwise you risk an unfavourable exchange rate.

With these tips, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective payment experience in Dubai, whether you are staying in Dubai Marina, visiting the markets of Deira, or grabbing a coffee on the Palm Jumeirah.