The UAE currency is the dirham (AED), pegged to the US dollar at 3.67. Cards and digital payments are widespread. Tipping is customary but not compulsory, so keep some small notes.
At a glance
Currency
UAE dirham (AED)
Exchange rate
Pegged at AED3.67 to US$1
Restaurant tip
10 to 15 percent
Taxi tip
AED5 to 10
Hotel housekeeping tip
About AED10 per night
Packing checklist
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Documents
Clothes and footwear
Personal and health needs
Electronics
Money
Money and forex (AED)
Rules checked 22 Oct 2026
The currency is the UAE dirham (AED), introduced in 1973. It is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of 3.67 dirhams to the dollar, per Visit Dubai. One dirham is 100 fils.
Cash and cards
Visit Dubai says the Dubai Cashless Strategy aims for 90 percent of transactions in Dubai to be digital in 2026. Cards are widely usable, but carry some cash for tips and small purchases. Banknotes run from AED5 to AED1,000.
ATMs and fees
Visit Dubai says dirhams are available via banks, currency exchanges and city ATMs. Check withdrawal fees and limits with your own bank before you travel.
Backup plan
Carry a second card and some AED5 and AED10 notes. Visit Dubai says tipping in dirhams is preferred, though other currencies can be accepted.
Trips to UAE
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