What currency do they use in Dubai Airport? The official currency used in Dubai Airport, and throughout the UAE, is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). You can exchange your home currency for AED at numerous exchange bureaus and ATMs conveniently located within the airport terminals.

Key Takeaways

• Exchange currency at airport kiosks and ATMs.
• The UAE Dirham (AED) is the official currency.
• Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
• Carry some cash for small purchases.
• Check exchange rates before you travel.
• ATMs offer convenient cash withdrawals.

What Currency Do They Use In Dubai Airport? Your Essential Guide

Arriving at Dubai International Airport (DXB) is an exciting moment. You’re about to step into a city known for its dazzling modernity and vibrant culture. But before you hail a taxi or grab a coffee, a common question pops into mind: “What currency do they use in Dubai Airport?” It’s a simple question, but knowing the answer helps you navigate your first moments in the UAE with ease. This guide will demystify the currency situation at DXB, ensuring you’re fully prepared.

You’ll find that understanding Dubai’s currency is straightforward, especially within the airport. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from the official currency to where and how to exchange money, making your arrival smooth and stress-free. Let’s dive into the details.

Understanding the Official Currency: The UAE Dirham (AED)

The official currency used throughout the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai Airport, is the United Arab Emirates Dirham, often abbreviated as AED. The Dirham is divided into 100 fils.

The AED is a stable currency, pegged to the US Dollar. This peg provides a predictable exchange rate, making financial planning easier for travelers. As of recent times, the exchange rate is typically around 1 USD = 3.6725 AED. This consistency is one of the many reasons Dubai is a preferred destination for international business and tourism.

You’ll see these denominations commonly:

• Banknotes: Available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 AED. Each note features distinct colors and designs, often reflecting the UAE’s heritage and natural beauty.
• Coins: While less common for everyday transactions, you might encounter coins in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25 fils, and 1 Dirham.

Currency Exchange at Dubai Airport (DXB)

Dubai Airport is a major international hub, and it’s well-equipped to handle the currency needs of millions of travelers. You have several convenient options for exchanging your money right upon arrival or before you depart.

Where to Find Exchange Bureaus

Dubai Airport hosts a significant number of currency exchange counters. You’ll find them strategically located in:

• Arrivals Halls: Immediately after you clear immigration and collect your luggage, you’ll see multiple exchange offices. This is the most convenient place to get some local currency for immediate needs like transport or snacks.
• Departures Areas: If you’re transiting or departing, you can also find exchange bureaus before security and in the duty-free shopping areas.
• Baggage Claim Areas: Some bureaus are situated here, offering quick access.

Major exchange providers operating at DXB include Travelex, Al Ansari Exchange, and UAE Exchange (now often operating under different branding). These providers are reputable and offer competitive rates, though it’s always wise to compare a couple before making a large exchange.

Exchange Rates at the Airport

Airport exchange rates are generally competitive, but they might be slightly less favorable than those you’d find in the city center. This is a common practice in major international airports worldwide. The difference is usually minimal for smaller amounts.

Pro Tip: While airport rates are convenient, if you have a significant amount of currency to exchange, you might get a slightly better rate at a bank or exchange bureau in the city. However, for immediate needs like airport taxis or a quick bite, the airport options are perfect.

Always check the displayed exchange rate before you hand over your currency. Look for the buy and sell rates for your home currency against the AED.

Using ATMs for Cash in Dubai Airport

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are abundant throughout Dubai Airport, offering a fast and often cost-effective way to get AED.

Locating ATMs

You’ll find ATMs from major local banks (like Emirates NBD, Mashreq Bank, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank) and international banks. They are conveniently located in:

• Arrivals and Departures terminals
• Near currency exchange counters
• In shopping and dining areas
• Close to bank branches within the airport

Withdrawing Cash from ATMs

Using ATMs is straightforward:

1. Insert your card: Use your debit or credit card.
2. Select language: Choose your preferred language.
3. Enter PIN: Input your Personal Identification Number.
4. Select withdrawal: Choose the amount of AED you wish to withdraw.
5. Confirm transaction: Review the details and confirm.

Your bank may charge an international transaction fee, and the local ATM provider might also charge a fee. It’s best to check with your bank about their international ATM withdrawal fees before you travel.

Credit and Debit Cards: The Modern Way to Pay

Dubai is a highly modern city, and its payment infrastructure reflects this. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across Dubai Airport and throughout the city.

Where Cards Are Accepted

• Shops: All retail outlets, from high-end boutiques to convenience stores.
• Restaurants and Cafes: From fine dining to airport food courts.
• Duty-Free: A primary payment method for purchases.
• Car Rental Desks: For booking and payment.
• Information Desks: For services and inquiries.

Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted card networks. American Express is also accepted in many places, but not universally. Ensure your card is enabled for international use.

Contactless Payments

Contactless payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also increasingly popular and accepted at many terminals and retailers within the airport.

Carrying Cash: How Much and Why

While cards are dominant, carrying some cash in AED is still a good idea, especially for your initial hours in Dubai.

Reasons to Carry Cash

• Small Purchases: For buying water, snacks, or small souvenirs where card transactions might not be ideal or have minimum spend requirements.
• Taxis: While most taxis accept cards, having a small amount of cash can be useful for some independent drivers or if a card machine is temporarily out of order.
• Tips: Although tipping is not mandatory, if you wish to tip porters or service staff, cash is the easiest way.
• Emergency Fund: A small amount of cash provides a backup in case of any unexpected issues with card transactions.

For your initial needs upon arrival, exchanging a small amount at the airport (e.g., 200-300 AED) should suffice until you can access ATMs or more favorable exchange rates elsewhere if needed.

Exchanging Currency Outside the Airport

Once you’ve left Dubai Airport and are exploring the city, you’ll find even more options for currency exchange and ATM access.

Banks

Banks are a reliable place to exchange currency. They offer competitive rates and are widely available in malls, business districts, and local neighborhoods. However, they typically operate during standard business hours, usually from Saturday to Thursday.

Exchange Bureaus

Dedicated currency exchange bureaus are plentiful throughout Dubai. Companies like Al Ansari Exchange and UAE Exchange have numerous branches, often with longer operating hours than banks, including evenings and weekends. They are known for quick transactions and often offer competitive rates.

ATMs in the City

You’ll find a vast network of ATMs in malls, supermarkets, petrol stations, and street corners across Dubai. Using your debit card at these ATMs is a convenient way to withdraw AED.

Understanding Exchange Rates and Fees

Navigating exchange rates and fees can seem complex, but it’s quite manageable with a little knowledge.

Exchange Rate Basics

The mid-market rate is the real exchange rate, the midpoint between the buy and sell rates on global currency markets. This is the rate you see on Google or XE.com. Currency exchange providers will offer you a rate slightly different from this (their buy rate and their sell rate).

Exchange Rate Table: Common Currencies to AED

Currency	Symbol	Approximate Exchange Rate to AED (as of late 2023/early 2024)
US Dollar	USD	1 USD = 3.67 AED
Euro	EUR	1 EUR = 4.00 AED
British Pound	GBP	1 GBP = 4.65 AED
Indian Rupee	INR	100 INR = 4.40 AED
Philippine Peso	PHP	100 PHP = 6.50 AED
Pakistani Rupee	PKR	100 PKR = 1.30 AED

Note: Exchange rates fluctuate. This table provides an approximate guide. Always check live rates.

Types of Fees

• Spread: The difference between the buy and sell rates offered by the exchange provider. This is how they make a profit.
• Transaction Fees: Some providers charge a fixed fee per transaction, especially for smaller amounts.
• ATM Fees: Your home bank might charge an international transaction fee, and the local ATM provider may also charge a fee.
• Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): When paying with a card, you might be offered the option to pay in your home currency. While it seems convenient, this often involves a less favorable exchange rate and hidden fees. It’s usually better to choose to pay in the local currency (AED).

For more details on currency exchange and rates in the UAE, the Central Bank of the UAE is an authoritative source.

Navigating Dubai Airport with Different Currencies

Dubai Airport is designed for international travelers, so it accommodates various currencies, but the official transaction currency is AED.

What if I don’t have AED?

Don’t worry! As covered, you have immediate access to currency exchange and ATMs upon arrival. You can also use major credit cards for essential services like airport taxis or purchasing a local SIM card.

Can I use USD or EUR at Dubai Airport?

Some shops, particularly in the duty-free section or high-end retailers, might accept major foreign currencies like USD or EUR, especially for larger purchases. However, they will likely provide change in AED, and the exchange rate used will be set by the vendor, which may not be favorable.

It’s always best to have AED for most transactions to ensure you get the correct price and avoid any confusion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is it safe to exchange money at Dubai Airport?

Yes, it is generally safe to exchange money at official currency exchange bureaus located within Dubai Airport. They are licensed and regulated. Just ensure you are dealing with an authorized provider.

Q2: What is the best way to get AED in Dubai Airport?

The best ways are typically using an ATM for cash withdrawal, as it often provides a good rate and is convenient, or using one of the many reputable currency exchange bureaus available in all terminals.

Q3: Can I use my credit card to pay for the airport taxi in Dubai?

Yes, most official airport taxis in Dubai accept major credit cards (Visa and Mastercard). However, it’s always a good idea to confirm with the driver before starting your journey, or have a small amount of AED cash as a backup.

Q4: What is the exchange rate like at Dubai Airport compared to the city?

Exchange rates at Dubai Airport are usually competitive but might be slightly less favorable than those found in banks or exchange bureaus in the city center. For small amounts, the convenience often outweighs the minor difference.

Q5: Do I need to declare currency when arriving in Dubai?

Yes, if you are carrying an amount of cash equivalent to or exceeding AED 100,000 (or its equivalent in other currencies), you must declare it to the Federal Customs Authority upon arrival. This is a standard international practice to prevent money laundering.

Q6: Are there ATMs available 24/7 at Dubai Airport?

Yes, Dubai Airport operates 24/7, and its ATMs are accessible around the clock, making them a convenient option for cash withdrawals at any time of day or night.

Conclusion

Navigating currency matters at Dubai Airport is a breeze. The official currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED), and you have multiple convenient options for obtaining it right upon arrival. From numerous exchange bureaus to readily available ATMs, and the widespread acceptance of credit and debit cards, Dubai Airport is fully equipped to meet your financial needs.

While carrying a small amount of AED cash for immediate expenses is wise, you’ll find that Dubai embraces modern payment methods. Understanding the basics of exchange rates and being aware of potential fees will ensure you always get the best value. With this knowledge, you can confidently step off your flight and begin your Dubai adventure, knowing your finances are well in hand.