What Currency Does Dubai Use?

Dubai uses the UAE dirham (AED). UK travellers must pay in AED—pounds are not accepted.

What Currency Does Dubai Use? (UK Traveller’s Guide)

If you're planning a trip to Dubai—whether for a luxury holiday, a stopover in the UAE, or a business trip—it's important to know what currency is used there. Dubai is part of the United Arab Emirates and uses a stable, internationally recognised currency that’s easy for UK travellers to convert. This guide explains what currency Dubai uses, how it works, and how to manage your money while visiting.

What Is the Currency of Dubai?

Dubai uses the United Arab Emirates dirham.

  • Currency name: UAE dirham

  • Currency symbol: د.إ or AED

  • ISO code: AED

  • Subunit: 1 dirham = 100 fils

The dirham is issued and regulated by the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates. It is the official currency across all seven emirates, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

Exchange Rate Overview

The dirham is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate:

1 USD = 3.6725 AED

As of 2024, the typical exchange rate for UK travellers is approximately:

£1 = 4.5–5 AED

Always check live rates before you travel or exchange money.

Spending in Dubai

  • All prices for goods, services, taxis, and meals are in AED

  • Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops, hotels, restaurants, and taxis

  • ATMs are widely available and dispense AED

  • Tipping is appreciated and usually done in cash (AED)

Dubai is highly digital, but carrying some cash can be useful for markets or tipping.

Tips for UK Travellers

  • Use a travel card (Wise, Monzo, Starling, Chase) for competitive exchange rates and no foreign transaction fees

  • Pay in AED, not GBP, when offered at checkout to avoid dynamic currency conversion (DCC) charges

  • Withdraw cash from bank-affiliated ATMs for better rates

  • Avoid exchanging large amounts of cash at the airport—rates are often poor

FAQs

Can I use British pounds in Dubai?
No. GBP is not accepted in shops or restaurants. You must use AED.

Do I need cash in Dubai?
While Dubai is largely cashless, it’s helpful to carry some AED for tipping, taxis, and smaller vendors.

Is Dubai expensive?
Yes—Dubai can be pricey, especially in tourist hotspots. Budget accordingly, particularly for accommodation and dining.