When traveling in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other destination in the United Arab Emirates, it’s hard to miss the name Dirham. This is the official currency of the Emirates, which has become an integral part of the travel experience, from shopping in luxurious malls to the colorful gold markets.
A Bit of History
The name “Dirham” originates from the Greek period, from the word “Drachma,” meaning silver coin. The name was later adopted by the Arab world and became the official currency in various countries. In the United Arab Emirates, the Dirham was introduced in 1973, replacing the old currency – the Qatar and Dubai riyal.
Value and Exchange Rates
The Dirham is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of approximately 3.67 Dirhams per dollar, making it a particularly stable currency. This stability greatly aids tourists, as it simplifies cost calculations and provides clarity on spending in shopping, dining, and travel.
How to Use Dirhams Daily?
During a trip to the Emirates, you will encounter colorful banknotes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and even 1,000 Dirhams. The smaller coins include values of 1, 0.50, and 0.25.
Most places also accept international credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially if you plan to take taxis or shop in markets.
Where to Exchange Money?
You can exchange shekels or dollars for Dirhams in your home country, but typically, exchange rates are better within the Emirates themselves. Airports offer currency exchange services, but rates there can be more expensive. Alternatively, you can arrive in Dubai with US dollar bills and find a local exchange to convert them to Emirati Dirhams.
Smart Traveler Tips
It’s always good to track exchange rates online before your trip, check the rate you can get in your home country, and decide if it’s better to purchase dollars there and then exchange them for Emirati Dirhams in the UAE. Additionally, if you have an international credit card with favorable exchange rates, you can save a significant amount of money.
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