What currency to use in the UAE
The UAE, especially the tourist-popular Dubai, attracts millions of travelers, and it's important to properly organize your budget for a comfortable stay. The main currency is the UAE dirham (AED), but international payment methods are also widely used here. Knowing how and what to pay with helps avoid unnecessary fees and expenses, especially considering that prices can vary significantly depending on the shops, restaurants, and services chosen. The right choice of currency and payment methods will allow you to effectively plan your budget and save money during your trip.
Currency in the UAE
The official currency in the United Arab Emirates is the UAE dirham (AED). The dirham exchange rate to the US dollar is fixed at 1 dollar = 3.67 dirhams - AED (February 2025). For convenience in planning expenses, you can use an approximate conversion: 1 dirham ≈ 27 rubles.
What currency to take to the UAE
The best option for currency exchange in Dubai is US dollars, since the dirham has a fixed rate to this currency, and conversion usually occurs with minimal losses. When exchanging euros, the rate will be less favorable, and they are accepted less frequently in some places. Rubles are hardly exchanged at all, and the conditions are extremely unfavorable, so it's better to exchange money for dollars or euros in advance.
Currency exchange in the UAE
Before exchanging money, it's important to check the current exchange rate and clarify any possible hidden fees.
Airports
This is the most convenient way to exchange, but keep in mind that the rate at airports is usually the least favorable.
Exchange offices in shopping malls
The optimal option – favorable rates and convenient locations in popular places.
Banks
You can find the most favorable exchange rate at banks, but consider their strict rules. Documents such as a passport or Emirates ID may be required for currency exchange, especially if you have large amounts. Also, in the emirates, banks have limited operating hours for exchange offices: Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 13:00 (some institutions work from 16:00 to 18:30), and Saturday and Sunday are days off.
Hotels
A less favorable option due to high commissions, which can significantly reduce the exchange amount.
Payment methods in the UAE
Cards (foreign cards)
In the United Arab Emirates, you can pay with a foreign bank card almost everywhere – in shops, restaurants, and hotels. Visa and Mastercard are the most common, and using them doesn't cause any problems.
Cash
Cash may be needed at markets, beach areas, and in small local cafes where cards are not always accepted.
Mobile payments
Mobile payments through Apple Pay and Google Pay are popular in the United Arab Emirates. However, it's worth considering that there are a number of restrictions on using Russian cards through these services.
Using Russian cards
In the UAE, the use of Russian cards is limited due to sanctions and the blocking of several Russian banks in international systems. Nevertheless, UnionPay cards issued by some Russian banks, such as Gazprombank, ATB, Primsotsbank, and Rosselkhozbank, are still accepted.
When paying in Dubai, you may be asked in which currency you prefer to process the transaction – in your card's currency or in dirhams. If you choose to pay in your card's currency, the rate will depend on the exchange rate set by the store, which is usually displayed near the checkout. If you pay in dirhams and your card is in another currency, the rate will be calculated according to the payment system's rules. It's also important to consider possible currency conversion fees, especially if your card is not in dirhams.
If you're planning unique experiences in Dubai, such as yacht cruises in Dubai with Courage-Voyage, don't worry about payment issues. These services can be easily paid for with Russian cards, ensuring not only a sea journey but also the absence of financial complications.
If you're planning unique experiences in Dubai, such as yacht cruises in Dubai with Courage-Voyage, don't worry about payment issues. These services can be easily paid for with Russian cards, ensuring not only a sea journey but also the absence of financial complications.
Tips for those whose cards don't work
Cash
It's always useful to have cash on hand. Moreover, it may be needed for small purchases where cards are not always accepted.
Travel cards
Travel cards are prepaid cards that make traveling easier by reducing currency conversion fees and expenses for international payments.
Tinkoff All Airlines, Alfa Travel, SberCard Travel, and the co-branded Tinkoff and S7 offer favorable rates. They often include bonuses for travelers, such as discounts on car rentals or hotels, and have low fees. For those who aren't looking for a card, there's Yandex Plus subscription with the "For Travelers" option, which solves the same issues but is not a travel card in the traditional sense.
Tinkoff All Airlines, Alfa Travel, SberCard Travel, and the co-branded Tinkoff and S7 offer favorable rates. They often include bonuses for travelers, such as discounts on car rentals or hotels, and have low fees. For those who aren't looking for a card, there's Yandex Plus subscription with the "For Travelers" option, which solves the same issues but is not a travel card in the traditional sense.
Opening an account abroad before traveling
For travel convenience, it's worth obtaining a foreign bank card in advance. Currently, there are many options for Russians: you can open a card in banks of Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Kyrgyzstan, or Uzbekistan. In some countries, all you need is a Russian passport or international passport and a minimal set of documents.
Security and savings tips
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Before exchanging currency, always check current rates and compare offers to avoid fraud and hidden fees.
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It's recommended to store cash in the UAE and bank cards in different places – this minimizes the risk of losing all funds in case of theft or loss.
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For convenience and operational control, use mobile applications that allow you to track currency rates in real time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I pay with rubles in the UAE?
No, the dirham is the main currency in the United Arab Emirates. Payment in rubles is not accepted.
Where is it most profitable to exchange currency?
The most favorable rates can usually be obtained at exchange offices in shopping malls or banks, where exchange conditions are more transparent. Rates at airports and hotels are generally less favorable due to high commissions.
How much cash should I take with me on the trip?
The amount of cash depends on your expenses. We recommend having a cash reserve for small purchases and unforeseen expenses – from 500 to 1000 dirhams for each day of travel. The United Arab Emirates is an expensive country, so keep in mind that the amount may be higher depending on your needs.
Proper trip planning will help avoid inconveniences and unnecessary expenses, making your journey more comfortable and cost-effective. Study current exchange rates, get a suitable card, and take US dollars with you for exchange to always have convenient and favorable payment methods at hand.