Dubai Currency 101: What Tourists Should Watch Out For
Dubai Currency Converter
Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you going to Dubai? You need to know about the money there. The money used in Dubai is called AED. AED means United Arab Emirates Dirham. It’s important to know how to use AED.
This guide will help you understand. We will talk about how to exchange money, use ATMs, and pay in Dubai. Let’s start!
What Is the Dubai Currency?
The money in Dubai is called AED. People also call it Dirham or Dhs. AED stands for United Arab Emirates Dirham.
1 Dirham is divided into 100 fils.
Here are some facts:
- Currency code: AED
- Symbol: د.إ
- 1 AED = 100 fils
You use AED everywhere in Dubai. In stores, taxis, restaurants, and hotels. AED is also used in all of the United Arab Emirates. So, it is the same in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Dubai Currency and the U.S. Dollar
The AED is connected to the U.S. Dollar (USD). This means the exchange rate does not change much. It stays the same almost all the time.
1 USD is always about 3.67 AED.
This makes it easy. If you know how much something costs in USD, you can know how much in AED. Just multiply the price by 3.67.
Top 10 Countries’ Currencies and Dubai Currency
Here are 10 countries and their money. You will see how much their money is worth in AED.
- United States (USD) – 1 USD = 3.67 AED
- Eurozone (EUR) – 1 Euro = 4.25 AED
- United Kingdom (GBP) – 1 British Pound = 4.95 AED
- India (INR) – 1 Indian Rupee = 0.045 AED
- China (CNY) – 1 Chinese Yuan = 0.56 AED
- Australia (AUD) – 1 Australian Dollar = 2.75 AED
- Canada (CAD) – 1 Canadian Dollar = 2.90 AED
- Japan (JPY) – 1 Japanese Yen = 0.033 AED
- Philippines (PHP) – 1 Philippine Peso = 0.067 AED
- Saudi Arabia (SAR) – 1 Saudi Riyal = 0.98 AED
Remember: Exchange rates can change. Always check the rates before exchanging your money.
Where to Exchange Dubai Currency
You can exchange your money for AED in many places. Here are the best places:
At the Airport
When you land at Dubai Airport, you will see many places to exchange money. These are called money exchange counters. They are easy to use, but they charge a bit more.At the Hotel
Many hotels will exchange money for you. This is helpful. But, they also charge extra.At the Bank
Banks in Dubai can exchange money too. Banks are safe and reliable. But they might have higher fees. Popular banks in Dubai are Emirates NBD, Mashreq Bank, and Dubai Islamic Bank.Money Exchange Centers
These are the best places to exchange money. They give better rates than hotels and banks. Two popular ones are Al Ansari Exchange and UAE Exchange.Shopping Malls
If you are shopping, you can exchange money at malls. Places like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates have money exchange centers.
Using ATMs in Dubai
There are many ATMs in Dubai. You can use your card to get AED from ATMs. Most ATMs accept international cards like Visa and Mastercard.
Here’s what you should know:
- Check With Your Bank: Ask your bank about fees for using your card in Dubai. Banks sometimes charge extra for using international ATMs.
- ATM Fees: ATMs in Dubai charge a small fee for using the machine. This is on top of what your bank may charge.
- Get AED Directly: The ATM gives you AED. You don’t have to worry about changing the money. But check the rate the ATM uses.
Using Credit Cards in Dubai
You can use your credit card almost everywhere in Dubai. Most shops, restaurants, and hotels accept Visa and Mastercard. Some also take American Express.
But it’s still a good idea to carry some cash. You may need cash for:
- Small shops
- Taxis
- Giving tips
Here are some tips for using your credit card in Dubai:
- Check Your Bank’s Fees: Your bank may charge extra when you use your card in another country. Check with your bank before you travel.
- Pay in AED: Some stores ask if you want to pay in your home currency. It is usually better to pay in AED. You get a better deal.
How to Calculate Dubai Currency Prices
It’s easy to calculate prices in AED. Here’s how you do it:
- Find the Exchange Rate: For example, 1 USD = 3.67 AED.
- Multiply: If something costs 50 AED, you can find out how much that is in USD. Just divide the price by 3.67.
- Example: 50 AED ÷ 3.67 = 13.62 USD.
You can do this with any currency. Just find the exchange rate for your money.
Tips for Exchanging Money in Dubai
Here are some simple tips for exchanging money:
- Check Rates First: Look at the rates before you exchange. Airports and hotels charge more. Exchange centers usually give better rates.
- Use Licensed Places: Only exchange money at official exchange centers or banks. Don’t exchange money on the street.
- Keep Some Cash: Even if you use a card, you should always keep some AED for small things like tips and taxis.
When Should You Exchange Money?
It is a good idea to exchange a little money before you travel. This way, you have AED when you arrive. But, exchange most of your money once you are in Dubai. Exchange centers in the city often give better rates.
Currency Exchange Rates for Top Countries
Here is a list of some top countries and their money. You can see how much their money is worth in AED.
- United States Dollar (USD): 1 USD = 3.67 AED
- Euro (EUR): 1 Euro = 4.25 AED
- British Pound (GBP): 1 GBP = 4.95 AED
- Indian Rupee (INR): 1 INR = 0.045 AED
- Chinese Yuan (CNY): 1 CNY = 0.56 AED
- Australian Dollar (AUD): 1 AUD = 2.75 AED
- Canadian Dollar (CAD): 1 CAD = 2.90 AED
- Japanese Yen (JPY): 1 JPY = 0.033 AED
- Philippine Peso (PHP): 1 PHP = 0.067 AED
- Saudi Riyal (SAR): 1 SAR = 0.98 AED
These numbers can change. Always check the rate before exchanging money. See top countries investing in Dubai.
What Is the Best Place to Exchange Money in Dubai?
The best places to exchange money are money exchange centers. They give you the best rates. You can find them in malls and markets.
Some good places to exchange are Al Ansari Exchange and UAE Exchange. They are safe and trusted.
Using Cash in Dubai
Cash is still important in Dubai. Even though many places take cards, there are times when you need cash. You will need cash for:
- Taxis
- Local markets
- Tips for service workers
It’s a good idea to always keep some small bills with you.
Credit Cards vs. Cash
In Dubai, it’s smart to have both cash and a credit card. Cards are great for big payments. But, cash is useful for small things like buying water or snacks.
Also, some places may not accept cards. Small shops and street markets prefer cash.
Tipping in Dubai
Tipping is not required in Dubai, but it is a nice gesture. Here are some simple rules:
- In restaurants, it is nice to leave a tip of 10-15%.
- For taxi drivers, you can round up the fare and say “Keep the change.”
- You can also tip hotel staff for carrying bags.
Always carry small bills for tipping.
Paying with Dubai Currency is the Best
Sometimes, stores in Dubai ask if you want to pay in your home currency. It may seem easy, but this is usually more expensive.
It’s better to always pay in AED. This way, you avoid hidden fees.
Can You Use Foreign Money in Dubai?
Some big shops and hotels in Dubai accept foreign money like USD or Euro. But, this is rare. It’s best to always use AED in Dubai.
How Much Cash Can You Bring to Dubai?
You can bring as much cash as you want to Dubai. But, if you bring more than 100,000 AED, you must tell the authorities.
When Is the Best Time to Exchange Money?
The best time to exchange money is when the rates are low. Check the rates online before you exchange. Try to avoid changing money at airports or hotels. They usually have higher fees.
What Does the New Dubai Currency look like?
What Does the OLD Dubai Currency look like?
FAQS About Dubai Currency
How much is 1 AED to 1 USD?
1 AED is about 0.27 USD.
How much is 1 AED to 1 Euro?
1 AED is about 0.23 Euro.
How much is 1 Dirham to INR?
1 Dirham is about 22 Indian Rupees.
How much is 1 Dirham to PHP?
1 Dirham is about 15 Philippine Pesos.
Conclusion About Dubai Currency
In conclusion, tourists visiting Dubai should be aware of the new currency regulations in place. To ensure a smooth experience, it is recommended to familiarize oneself with the updated currency conversion rates and exchange procedures. By staying informed and prepared, tourists can make the most of their visit to Dubai.
Read more: Dubai Currency 101: What Tourists Should Watch Out For
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