Travelling to Dubai—a modern and booming city full of economic prospects—is exhilarating; but one of the most pressing concerns that all visitors and expat encounter is exchanging foreign cash for UAE dirhams. Arriving at an airport without conclusive financial provisions is an invitation to be subjected to poor rates of exchange or even hidden commissions that might disrupt your travel budget. Dubai is crowded by establishments offering currency conversion services ranging from high-tech kiosk machines at shopping centers to multi-currency ATMs as well as currency exchange centers at airport terminals. However, the greatest concern is: what is the safest, fastest, and least expensive method for Currency Exchange in Dubai?
Here in this article by Dxboffplan we acquaint you with the top choices of currency exchange in Dubai. We will continue by following a list of highly recommended centers that provide excellent rates and professional services so you have a stress-free experience with money. For those wishing to travel to the land of wonders all prepared and stress-free, continue reading and do not miss this guide!
Dubai, the pulsating heart of the Middle East and gateway to both East and West, is much more than a tourism hub. It is one of the world’s premier commercial, commerce, and investment hubs. This chic and opulent city hosts millions annually—vacationers who come for investment in mega-projects, global brand shopping, trade, and even family vacations. However urgent their vacation or commercial trip may be, to arrive in Dubai with no local currency in their pockets can be a formula for immediate catastrophe. In UAE, one of the best Arab countries for immigration, UAE dirham (AED) is the sole official and accepted currency used for all transactions. You could go ahead and name it, from taxis and shopping malls and restaurants to hospitals and universities and government services. Keep reading as we have explored this topic as well.
The currency used in Dubai and all UAE emirates is UAE dirham (AED), otherwise referred to as AED. One dirham is 100 fils. Bank notes used are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 dirhams. 1, 25, and 50 fils coins exist as well. UAE dirham is officially tied to the dollar and has been keeping an approximate 3.67 dirhams per dollar fix for years now. Because of that, foreign businessmen and foreign investors consider Dubai to be a trustworthy destination. Foreign tourists and businessmen must use AED to do all types of currency exchange in Dubai ranging from ordinary shopping to property transactions.
The ideal currency to use while visiting Dubai is obviously UAE dirham (AED), as it is and remains the one and only official as well as widely accepted currency in all commerce, service as well as governmental and private sectors. In case you forget to get dirhams beforehand, major currencies such as USD (US dollars) and EUR (euros) however easily get exchanged from most of Dubai’s trusty currency exchange centers. Such currencies are stable worldwide and normally exchanged for good rates. Less popular currencies and less familiar currencies need to be evaded since their change causes inconvenience or gives unfavorable change rates. For Iranian citizens due to banking limitation issues, buying some portion of required dirhams in Iran and the remainder from trusty exchange centers in Dubai is preferable. We will introduce a couple of places for currency exchange in Dubai right ahead.
In this list we have gathered the most reputable and trustworthy exchange centers with competitive exchange rates in Dubai:
Al Ansari Exchange is among the most reputed and oldest houses for currency exchange in Dubai. They have over 200 branches all over the country and in all major locations in Dubai specifically. Al Ansari Exchange offers competitive rates, local and international money transfer, coverage for a considerable number of foreign currencies, and buying cryptocurrency in some locations as well. Its website and mobile application further simplify transactions. Additional advantages are high transaction speed, well-trained and experienced staff, high security, and extensive geographical reach. Al Ansari Exchange is also preferred by Iranian tourists as some tourist location branches have Iranian language support staff for convenience in services. For foreign workers, investors, expats, and tourists, this is the number one destination.
Al Fardan Exchange is another well-known and reliable house for currency exchange in Dubai and is owned by the prestigious Al Fardan Group. With customer-oriented services and competitive rates coupled with transparency, Al Fardan is a tourist and resident’s favorite choice. With services ranging from foreign currency exchange to international remittance and bill payments to business solutions, Al Fardan is well-spaced with its branches strategically located in the city and a mobile application to provide easy access even while travelling to Dubai. Al Fardan has trained staff and strong security protocols in place so as to be a dependable choice among residents and tourists.
Al Rostamani Exchange is an experienced and well-established UAE financial institution operating for over half a decade. Part of the veteran Al Rostamani Group, the financial institution is synonymous with competitive exchange rates, financial transparency, and customer-centricity. With branches in prime locations in Deira, Bur Dubai, and Sheikh Zayed Road and easily accessible locations as well, it is easily accessible for customers. The services it offers comprise currency exchange, transfer to over 100 countries, international payments, and other business services. The mobile and online version ensures hassle-free and secure access. Al Rostamani Exchange is an excellent choice for people who want a secure, quick, and professional financial experience in Dubai.
Sharaf Exchange is one of the well-known and reputed Sharaf Group subsidiaries in Dubai. They offer a complete bouquet of services in international transactions and currency exchange. With more than one outlet at strategic corners of the city such as Deira, Bur Dubai, and leading shopping centers of Dubai, Sharaf Exchange is easily accessible to customers.
Its major services are currency conversion, international transfer of funds, bill payments, purchase of travel cards, and special services for corporations. For added convenience and security, its services can be availed through mobile applications too. For travelers and expatriates who require a reputed exchange offering and international level services in Dubai, Sharaf Exchange is an ideal choice.
Al Mahdi Exchange is one of Persian-run currency exchanges based in Dubai and is highly favored by Iranian residents and travelers. With decades of experience as a financial and exchange services provider, it is a safe and quick link between Iran and UAE. Exchanging major currencies into UAE dirhams and selling and buying US dollars and euros are among its services, as is receiving and sending Iranian and UAE-based remittances and financial consulting services at reasonable and transparent prices. Among primary advantages of the above-mentioned exchange company is its full Persian fluency and full awareness of Iranian demands abroad and thus making Iranian customers more at ease and confident in their transactions. Moreover, it’s good location near Iranian-inhabitant areas in cities located in Dubai and specifically Deira and Bur Dubai is an added advantage.
Debit and credit card payment is a major mode of payment in Dubai. They are accepted everywhere at shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, as well as taxis and allow tourists to pay safely and easily without cash. However, since some of the older souks and small shops accept cash alone, it is best to have some UAE dirhams as a precautionary measure.
Visa, Mastercard, and American Express credit cards issued internationally are perfect for paying bills in Dubai. These credit cards allow spending and access to cash advances using ATMs besides providing useful ancillary services in most cases. Some of the strongest benefits offered by credit cards for travelers include:
A credit card can also lead to financial savings including:
Debit cards tied to bank accounts directly are safe to use in Dubai as well. These allow you to withdraw funds and pay directly out of your account balance without owing anything.
Some of the most popular international debit cards for traveling to Dubai are Wise, Citibank, Revolut, and ING. They are used by the majority of travelers since they enjoy great rates for currency conversion, low fees stated clearly in advance, and convenience.
Prepaid travel cards are a secure and regulated method to keep and handle foreign currency when traveling. The card is preloaded with an amount and can be refueled before embarking on travel. They suit travelers who have a budget and wouldn’t appreciate unwanted additional fees while traveling. In spite of their benefits, certain issuers charge fees including:
So, therefore, it is suggested that before purchasing such cards, their terms and conditions be read carefully or a financial adviser consulted. In most cases, using the right bank card and being fully aware of its features and charges allows you to plan a tour or a trip to Dubai more confidently and with less tension.
Purchasing currency in a city as prominent as Dubai—nationally recognized as one of the world’s best commercial and tourism centers—is an exercise in planning, currency awareness, and good timing. Lack of awareness about exchange rates, secure locations to do an exchange, and hidden fees can leave an individual overpaid and even in danger of security threats. Below are some important points to consider when making currency purchases in Dubai:
Most crucial tip is to compare rates at different points for currency exchange in Dubai. Rates vary depending on whether it is from an airport, city center bureau de change, or open market. Rates in an airport are usually higher than the market average and must be kept for necessary start-up requirements. Apps and websites like XE Currency or OANDA allow you to monitor prevailing rates.
There exist numerous centers for currency exchange in Dubai, but you must visit those that have a license and are regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE). Well-known firms such as Al Ansari Exchange and Al Fardan and Al Rostamani and Sharaf Exchange offer secure services and competitive exchange rates.
Most bureaux de change, especially for big amounts, require clients to show a valid ID card or passport. Occasionally a visa and/or airline ticket is requested as well. It is thus reasonable to keep a photocopy of your identification documents on hand at all times.
Dubai bureau de change office hours are typically 8 AM to 10 PM, but those in tourist and shopping areas remain open till midnight. The best time to exchange currency is early in the morning or during weekdays for shorter queues and even more favorable rates. Rates are likely to be higher and queues more lengthy during holidays and peak tourist season. Carefully review all fees and additional charges. Some have a flat transaction fee while others wrap it into the exchange rate itself.
At some tourist locations or roads, people do get their currency exchanged for better rates. Not just is that against the law, it even exposes you to fraud and acceptance of fake currency. Utilize only registered and licensed currency exchange centers.
If possible, it is better to acquire and carry some UAE dirhams before you leave your country to avoid causing any problem on arrival with the first expense such as taxis, water, food, and SIM card purchase. Alternatively, a little cash exchange at the airport is sufficient to lead you to a reputable exchange center downtown.
Most Dubai exchange houses also have formal mobile applications through which customers can view up-to-date exchange rates on a daily basis, place orders for currency, make e-payment and view their accounts too. Utilizing these must have applications in Dubai saves time and adds an additional layer of security as well.
To change money in Dubai, valid identification is a major prerequisite in most UAE’s Central Bank regulated licensed money changing centers. Your valid passport is mostly used as a primary identification required and for most cases, you can change cash based on your passport alone. But if you want to change large amounts of cash, an exchange center may need a flight ticket, visa, proof of residence, or proof of intended travel so that source of funds is verified and transaction purpose is valid as well. These are required for satisfying anti-money laundering provisions and financial transparency as well. And if you avail yourself of remittance and international transfer services as well, you may need to provide banking information, phone number, and completed KYC form as well. So it is always advisable to be in possession of all required documents in full before visiting an exchange center so that you get to go ahead with a quick and hassle-free transaction.
Dubai is more than a holiday resort – it’s a metropolis populated by thousands of remote workers and expatriates and digital nomads. For entrepreneurs working in UAE staying more than a week here, occasional currency exchanges at kiosks are costly. Organize more established financial arrangements instead. Open a local banking account and use international transfer services with more favourable rates to cover regular expenditure such as rent, subscriptions, or investments. You’ll also need ways to reduce remittance and fee-charging transfers. Clever budget-saving tips for prolonged stays:
Being one of the region’s important tourism, commercial, and immigration centers, Dubai requires financial planning and familiarity with safe payment methods. With the UAE dirham (AED) as the official and sole currency in the city to be accepted, being in possession of the proper currency is part of the first and most critical things to do before arriving or as soon as you do arrive.
The best way for Currency Exchange in Dubai is to visit established and authorized exchange centers such as Al Ansari, Al Rostamani, Al Fardan, or Sharaf Exchange that offer a number of services at reasonable prices. Taking identification documents on you such as your passport, checking more than a single source of exchange rates, avoiding going to unofficial and unlicensed money exchangers, and using international bank cards or even travel prepaid cards is all sound practice and will allow you to have a secure and hassle-free currency handling experience.
By embracing safe transaction habits in currencies, choosing secure exchanges, possessing necessary documents, and using electronic payment mechanisms, you too can venture into Dubai’s financial scene with ease. If you want to invest in Dubai’s booming property market using your funds, an intelligent financial plan and easy access to currency is your first crucial step. We at Dxboffplan offer precise information about current property prices in Dubai, off-plan projects, payment schemes, financial and legal consulting and offer secure investment opportunities to make your journey in the Dubai real estate scene easy, secure and lucrative.
It is best to take a small amount of AED from your native country to cover minor expenditures including transportation, food and telephone SIMcards upon arrival. Alternatively, a small change at the airport is sufficient in order to reach an urban bureau de change office.
You usually require a passport to change currency in Dubai. For big amounts, you may be requested to show your flight ticket, visa, proof of residence, or itinerary to comply with anti-money laundering regulations.
In fact, all major authorized exchange providers in Dubai have mobile applications through which you can see exchange rates, place an order for currency, pay online, and handle transactions easily and safely.
There is no shortage in that list as you can visit Sharaf Exchange, Al Ansari Exchange, Al Rostamani, and Al Fardan for a safe transaction.
