UAE is very modern and convenient for travelers. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in cities, while cash is useful for small vendors and taxis. This guide explains currency basics, withdrawing money safely, paying by cash, card or mobile wallet, typical costs, tipping, and common pitfalls.
UAE’s currency is the UAE Dirham (AED), symbol د.إ or AED. Notes commonly in circulation are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 AED. Coins exist for 25, 50 fils and 1, 5 AED. Prices are usually inclusive of tax. Keep small notes for tips, taxis, and markets. Cards are widely accepted in malls, hotels, and restaurants.
UAE has plenty of ATMs at malls, hotels, and airports. Use trusted banks for security. Notify your bank of travel. Contactless cards work widely. Exchange cash at banks or reputable exchange centers; airport rates are slightly lower.
Mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and UAE bank apps are widely accepted. QR code payments are common in restaurants and markets. For ride-hailing apps, cards or wallet payment is standard.
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel (per night) | 200–400 | 450–1000 | Breakfast included sometimes |
| Meal (per person) | 20–50 | 60–150 | Street food vs restaurants |
| Coffee/Tea | 5–15 | 20–40 | Café vs chain outlets |
| Taxi/Metro | 5–15 | 30–80 | Uber/Careem pricing varies |
| Tour/Attraction | 50–150 | 200–400 | Depends on site & season |
| SIM + Data (30 days) | 50–100 | — | Passport required |
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Restaurants sometimes add service charge. 5–10% tip in other cases. Taxi rounding is common. Bargaining is less common in malls; markets allow negotiation politely.
Many travelers and expats need to send money home or receive funds while in UAE. International money transfer services are reliable, fast, and widely available. Some banks allow direct transfers via online apps, while exchange houses provide competitive rates for cash pick-ups.
Shopping is a favorite activity in the UAE, from luxury malls to traditional souks. Payment practices vary depending on location. While malls, supermarkets, and branded outlets accept cards, souks and street vendors often prefer cash. Bargaining is common in traditional markets.
Visa/Mastercard accepted everywhere, receipts usually include VAT details.
Carry small notes; merchants may offer discounts if you pay cash instead of card.
Located in airports; accept international cards and multiple currencies.
If you are staying longer (more than a month), opening a local bank account can help manage expenses and avoid international transaction fees. Some banks also issue prepaid travel cards for tourists.
UAE charges a 5% VAT on most goods and services. However, tourists can claim a refund on purchases made at registered stores. Look for the "Tax Free Shopping" logo at participating outlets.
If you lose your wallet or run out of cash, several options are available. Embassies can guide citizens, while services like Western Union allow family to send funds instantly. Hotels may also help by holding deposits on credit cards.
Cheaper than daily taxis.
Buy large bottles and refill, instead of small bottles daily.
Use Entertainer or Groupon UAE for 2-for-1 deals.
Carry one main card and a backup plus small AED notes for taxis, tips, and small vendors. Cards are widely accepted in malls and hotels.
Use indoor ATMs at malls, banks, or airports. Avoid street ATMs at night. Shield PIN and keep alerts on.
Apple Pay, Google Pay, and bank apps work widely. QR payments accepted in restaurants and some markets.
Not mandatory. 5–10% tip in restaurants without service charge. Round taxi fares; small tips for porters.
Always choose AED. Paying in home currency usually gives worse exchange rates.
Budget: 150–400 AED; mid-range: 450–1000 AED per day, depending on hotels, food, and transport.
Use slim wallet for day, backup cash/cards in hotel safe. Avoid showing large amounts.
Yes, for exchanges, big purchases, tours, and hotels. Screenshots help for proof or returns.