Dubai: Cash, Card, Currency - Essential Guidelines

What to Bring to Dubai? Cash, Card, and Currency Exchange Tips

When planning a trip to Dubai, one of the most common questions is what form of payment should you bring? Cash, bank card, currency - perhaps euros or US dollars? The United Arab Emirates has a modern financial system, yet there are still aspects worth considering to avoid inconveniences and unnecessary costs during the trip.

Official Currency: Emirati Dirham

The official currency used in everyday life in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates dirham, abbreviated as AED. Prices are displayed in dirhams everywhere, whether in restaurants, taxis, malls, or markets. The dirham has a stable value and is pegged to the US dollar, with 1 USD amounting to approximately 3.67 AED for a long time. This implies that the exchange rate is relatively predictable, but where and how you exchange money can still make a difference.

Cash: Necessary, But Only in Limited Amounts

Though card payment is extremely common in Dubai, it's advisable to carry some cash. Dirhams might be needed in the following situations:

- Smaller local markets (e.g., Deira Gold Souk, karak tea sellers),

- Tipping,

- Taxi drivers, especially if ordering a car through unofficial apps,

- Parking meters (though most are digital now),

- Small eateries, cafés, street vendors.

Generally, it's sufficient to exchange enough for the first few days, around 300-500 dirhams, and withdraw more from an ATM as needed. Currency exchange is possible at the airport, but the rates are less favorable. It's advisable to procure enough at home before departure for your initial days.

Using Bank Cards: Quick, Secure, Popular

In Dubai, card payment is widespread. Most shops, restaurants, hotels, metro machines, museums, and taxi services accept international cards, be it Visa, MasterCard, or even American Express. Contactless payment is also common, allowing payment via NFC or smartphone wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay).

It's important to check before departure:

- Whether your card is suitable for international transactions and allowed for use in the Middle East region,

- The currency conversion fees charged by your bank,

- The cost of using an international ATM should you need cash.

Often, paying by card is more convenient and cheaper than constantly exchanging currency.

Currency: Euro or Dollar?

Many opt to bring cash euros or US dollars and then exchange them for dirhams. This is a workable solution, but keep in mind:

- US dollars are exchanged at better rates since the dirham is pegged to it. If you must choose, it's advisable to bring dollars.

- Euros are also exchangeable, but their rates are more volatile and sometimes less favorable at certain exchanges.

- Currency exchanges typically don't charge additional fees, but rates may vary - hence it's worth checking multiple places or finding a reputable one (e.g., Al Ansari Exchange, UAE Exchange, Travelex).

Currency Exchange Locally: Airport, Malls, City Center

Virtually all major malls in Dubai have a currency exchange. The best rates are usually found at city offices, while exchanges at the airport and hotels tend to be more expensive. Pay attention to the "buy" and "sell" rates displayed, and request the exact total before exchanging.

Using ATMs: A Flexible Solution

ATMs are ubiquitous in Dubai, be it at metro stations, malls, or gas stations. Withdrawals are made in dirhams, but your bank applies its exchange rate and any associated fees. Thus, it's recommended to use a card offering low or zero foreign fees.

Card-based cash withdrawals are convenient and safe, helping avoid the exchange rate risks involved with currency exchange.

Revolut, Wise, and Other Fintech Solutions

In recent years, more travelers have been using digital solutions like Revolut, Wise, or similar smartphone apps. Their advantages include:

- Offering competitive exchange rates,

- Charging low or zero transaction fees,

- Enabling easy online payment or cash withdrawal from an ATM.

In Dubai, these cards work just like traditional bank cards.

Declaring Cash on Entry

It's important to know that if you bring 50,000 AED or more into the country (or equivalent in other currencies), you're required to declare it to customs authorities. This rule applies not only to cash but also to checks, traveler's checks, and precious metals. Most travelers naturally fall well below this threshold, but it's worth being aware of it.

Summary

When traveling to Dubai, the best strategy is to use a bank card, ideally combined with some dirham cash for smaller expenses. If bringing currency, US dollars are the most practical, though euros also work. Currency exchange is best handled in the city rather than at the airport where rates are more competitive. Modern digital financial solutions like Revolut can also assist in comfortable and cost-effective travel.

When planning a journey, it's not only clothes and activities that matter but also how we manage our finances – and Dubai offers elegant, secure, and convenient solutions in this regard.

(The post is based on shared experiences and stories from readers.)