The dirham
AED, pegged at 3.6725 to the US dollar for decades, prices are stable and conversion maths is easy (divide by 3.7).
Cards rule
Visa/Mastercard/Apple Pay accepted down to tiny cafeterias; carry AED 100 to 200 cash for souks, tips and abras.
Exchanging money
Skip airport counters; Al Ansari and Al Fardan exchanges in malls give near interbank rates. ATMs work with all major cards (your bank's fees apply).
Tipping culture
Not obligatory: round up taxis, AED 5 to 10 for porters, 5 to 10% in restaurants when service charge is not already added.
FAQs
Should I pay in AED or my home currency at terminals?
Always AED, dynamic currency conversion adds 3 to 5% silently.
Are souks haggle priced?
Yes, open at half the first quote in the gold and spice souks and settle around 60 to 70%.
Put it into practice
Every guide on this blog connects to experiences you can book in two minutes.
Official information sources
Rules, operating conditions and government charges can change. Check the official sources below for the latest information before payment or travel.
Traveller money checklist
This editorial guide combines spending, cash, cards and budgeting for a trip. Detailed currency facts live in the AED reference, while exchange-provider choices belong on the exchange page.