Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi and wondering which currency will serve you best during your stay? Using the right money format can ease transactions, avoid confusion, and help you get better value while exploring the city.
UAE dirham is the only accepted official currency
In Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates dirham (AED) is the official and exclusive currency for all transactions. Whether you’re shopping in luxury malls, dining at local restaurants, or paying for taxis, dirhams are required. Foreign currencies like the euro, dollar, or pound are not accepted directly at shops, even in tourist areas. Some large hotels may quote prices in foreign currencies for informational purposes, but payment is still processed in dirhams.
Card payments are widely accepted across the city
You don’t always need to carry cash in Abu Dhabi. Credit and debit cards are accepted in almost all urban areas, including grocery stores, transport services, and malls. International cards like Visa and Mastercard work without issue, though it’s smart to check with your bank for foreign transaction fees. For street vendors, small cafés, or taxis in outer districts, having a small amount of cash is still recommended for convenience.
ATMs offer easy and multilingual access to local currency
ATMs are plentiful throughout Abu Dhabi, located inside malls, metro stations, and supermarkets. Machines provide English and Arabic interfaces, and most accept international bank cards. Some ATMs let you withdraw dirhams using foreign-issued cards, but your bank may apply international conversion charges. Always choose to be charged in AED rather than your home currency, as bank rates are usually more favorable than dynamic currency conversion.
Currency exchange offices are common and regulated
If you bring cash from abroad, you’ll need to exchange it. Licensed currency exchange offices are available in every neighborhood, including city centers like Hamdan Street, tourist areas near the Corniche, and major shopping centers. These offices are regulated by the Central Bank and must display exchange rates openly. You’ll need a passport for larger exchanges, especially if converting amounts beyond standard daily limits.
Avoid exchanging money at airports unless necessary
While currency exchange counters at the airport are convenient, the rates are often less favorable than those found in the city. If you land late or need cash immediately, it’s fine to exchange a small amount. But for better value, we recommend using city exchange bureaus or local ATMs once you’ve arrived at your accommodation.
Mobile wallets and local apps support daily payments
Abu Dhabi supports contactless payment systems, and local residents frequently use mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Wallet. International tourists can also use these systems, depending on their bank’s compatibility. In addition, local platforms like PayBy or eDirham are more popular among residents and government services but aren’t required for tourists.
Currency conversions are typically rounded for ease
When shopping, don’t be surprised if final totals are rounded. Because the UAE dirham has coins like 25 fils and 50 fils, but no 1-fil coin, minor amounts are often adjusted up or down. This is common and legal, and it usually means a difference of less than one dirham per transaction. If you’re budgeting tightly, ask for a printed receipt to keep track of daily spending.
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in dirhams
In restaurants and hotels, tipping is not compulsory but culturally welcomed. Most tourists tip in cash, using small dirham notes. There’s no need to convert tips into foreign currencies. For example, rounding up a taxi fare or leaving a few extra dirhams for hotel staff is common and considered polite.
Carrying high-value notes is safe but not always practical
Dirham notes come in denominations from 5 to 1,000. Larger notes like 200 and 500 AED are safe to carry, but may not be accepted by small vendors or kiosks. When withdrawing money or exchanging currency, ask for mixed denominations. This helps when paying entrance fees, buying snacks, or tipping without needing to break a large bill at every stop.
Turkish tourists may find similarities in cash culture
For travelers from Türkiye, the UAE’s use of cash in taxis, open-air markets, and small cafés may feel familiar. Much like in İstanbul’s Eminönü or Kadıköy, having small bills on hand makes casual spending easier. However, the city’s clean layout and banking infrastructure add a modern touch, making card payments and cash coexist comfortably.
This guide was prepared by the www.few.ae to help you navigate currency use with ease during your stay in Abu Dhabi.
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