 Local Currency
The UAE’s monetary is the dirham (AED), which is divided into 100 fils. Dirham notes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 denominations, while coins come in AED 1, 0.5, 0.25, 0.10 and 0.05. The latter two denominations are rarely used. Cash exceeding Dhs 40,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency must be declared to airport customs control upon entry.
Money Cash is still the UAE’s preferred payment method, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted. There is some limitation on the import of currency into the country.
Money Exchanges
The dirham is pegged to the US Dollar at the official exchange rate of AED 3.6725 to every US Dollar. Money exchanges (bureau de changes) are all over Abu Dhabi and offer rates that are often better than the banks. You’ll find them in all major malls and some popular shopping districts (such as Karamah or the Gold Souk). Exchange centres are usually open Saturday to Thursday, from 8am – 1pm and 4.30pm – 8.30pm and on Friday evenings. Many hotels will also exchange money and travellers’ cheques at standard (non-competitive) rates.
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