UAE Payment Methods & Currency Exchange: Cash, Cards, Limits, and Fees

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) uses a modern, cashless-friendly payment system. Most urban areas support contactless payments and international cards, but cash is still used in some situations.

• Official currency: UAE Dirham (AED), ISO code: AED.
• Accepted payment methods: Cash (AED), major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Alipay).
• Contactless payments: Widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, malls, and taxis.
• ATM availability: Extensive in cities and airports; most ATMs accept international cards. English language options are standard.
• Currency exchange: Available at banks, airports, hotels, and licensed exchange offices. Exchange rates and fees may vary.
• Foreign currency restrictions: No restrictions on bringing in foreign currency, but amounts over AED 60,000 (approx. USD 16,300/EUR 15,000) must be declared to customs.
• Cash import/export limits: Up to AED 60,000 (or equivalent) can be brought in or out without declaration. Declare higher amounts at entry/exit points.
• Transaction fees: Foreign card transactions may incur a 1–3% surcharge. ATM withdrawals may have additional fees.
• Common issues: Some small vendors may accept cash only. Notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.
• Major banks: Emirates NBD, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Mashreq Bank.
• Regulations: UAE Central Bank oversees payment systems. Counterfeit currency and large undeclared cash transactions are subject to penalties.