United Arab Emirates Travel Guide

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Shopping

Customs duties are low and therefore luxury goods are cheaper than in most countries. The Dubai duty-free shop is one of the cheapest in the world. Souks sell traditional Emirati leather goods, gold, brass and silverware.

Shopping hours: Daily 0900-1300 and 1600-2100, but many shops are open all day. Shops close for prayers Friday 1130-1330.

Currency

UAE Dirham (AED) = 100 fils. Notes are in denominations of AED1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of AED1, and 50, 25, 10 and 5 fils (10 and 5 fils coins are rarely used).

The Dirham is tied to the US Dollar.

Currency Exchange

Most hotels will handle the exchange of foreign currency as well as many major banks. Many of the large shopping malls have bureau de change.

Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted. ATMs are found across the UAE, mostly in the major cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Travelers Checks

These are widely accepted. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler's checks in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling.

Currency Restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. Amounts over AED40,000 must be declared at customs.

Banking Hours

Sat-Wed 0800-1300, Thurs 0800-1200. Some also open Sat-Wed 1630-1830.

Exchange Rate