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How to buy UAE Dirham

  • Buy UAE Dirham Online

    Buy UAE Dirham online with Click & Collect at over 580 M&S stores. Use our Pounds to UAE Dirham (GBP to AED) currency calculator to work out how many UAE Dirham you want. Pick your collection date and collect from your chosen M&S store.

    Click & Collect UAE Dirham (AED) in as little as 60 seconds.*

    *Subject to availability

  • Buy UAE Dirham In-store

    Buy UAE Dirham in your local participating M&S store.* With over 90 Travel Money Bureaux nationwide - many open seven days a week. - you can buy UAE Dirham at a time that suits you.

    *In-store rates may differ from online rates.



UAE Dirham 1

Why buy UAE Dirhams from M&S Travel Money?

No matter your travel plans, there's a lot to organise before you jet off to the UAE. That's why M&S Travel Money makes it quick and hassle-free to get your foreign currency:

  • Our UAE Dirham rate has no hidden fees & zero commission
  • Click & Collect UAE Dirham the same day*
  • Stores open 7 days a week**
  • Get more with Sparks Preferential Rates

**store opening hours vary

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What you need to know about the UAE Dirham currency

The UAE Dirham is the official and legal tender of the United Arab Emirates. Its currency code is AED and its symbol is د.إ. Each Dirham is made up of 100 Fils ( فلس).

The UAE Dirham comes in both coins and banknotes.

Coins include:
25 فلس (Fils), 50 فلس, 1 د.إ (Dirham)

Banknotes include:
5 د.إ, 10 د.إ, 20 د.إ, 50 د.إ, 100 د.إ, 200 د.إ, 500 د.إ, 1,000 د.إ

You can buy UAE Dirham online using our click & collect service.

*Please note not all denominations are available to exchange.

Dubai - amazing city center skyline with luxury skyscrapers at sunrise, United Arab Emirates ,Kalifa

Guide to the United Arab Emirates

Filled with modern cities, stunning landscapes and rich culture, the United Arab Emirates is a Middle Eastern destination like no other. No matter your travel style, there’s something for every tourist in the UAE.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are famous for their towering skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, and world-class attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. 

But the United Arab Emirates are more than just their spectacular cities… beyond, there are countless places to explore. The golden dunes of the Arabian desert are perfect for safaris, sandboarding and camel rides, and along the coast, you’ll find beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters - perfect for relaxation or water sports.

Whether you want adventure, luxury, or culture, the United Arab Emirates has it all.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my bank card in the United Arab Emirates?

You can use bank cards, including debit and credit cards, in urban areas and tourist spots in the United Arab Emirates. However, many businesses, particularly in rural areas, will only accept cash payments, so be sure to travel with cash Emirati Dirham. This will also help you avoid the fees, charges and unfavourable exchange rates associated with overseas card payments.

What are the typical prices in the United Arab Emirates?

The UAE isn’t known for being cheap. Here's an overview of the typical prices you might encounter:

  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: 92.55 AED (£20)
  • Meal for 2 people at a mid-range restaurant: 370.18 AED (£80)
  • Domestic beer: 27.76 AED (£6)
  • Cup of coffee: 17.22 AED (£3.72)
  • Bottle of water: 6.70 AED (£1.45)
Can you use other currencies in the United Arab Emirates?

The United Arab Emirates's official currency is the UAE Dirham. You can't use any other foreign currency in the UAE.

Do you need a visa to visit the United Arab Emirates?

British tourists need a visa to enter the United Arab Emirates, which is issued without charge when you arrive. This doesn't require an application ahead of time and is valid for up to 40 days. 

If you’re planning to work in the UAE, you need a work permit (valid for up to 3 months) from the UAE Ministry of Labour.

Always check the entry requirements with GOV.UK before departing.

Should I tip in the United Arab Emirates?

Tipping isn't obligatory in the UAE but it's appreciated. If your bill comes without a service charge, consider leaving a tip of around 10%.

What languages are spoken in the United Arab Emirates?

Arabic is the United Arab Emirates' official language, but several other languages are spoken by the country's diverse population, including: 

  • English
  • Farsi
  • Urdu
  • Hindu
What is the latest government travel advice for the United Arab Emirates?

The United Arab Emirates is generally considered a safe destination for travellers. However, it's best to check any government travel advisories before your trip.

You can also visit the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for the latest government travel advice for the UAE.

What is the best time of year to visit the United Arab Emirates?

If you want to beat the heat, avoid the summer months in the UAE. January is one of the most popular months to visit, despite the higher rainfall which you can expect in small bursts for a couple of days out of the month. February tends to bring bigger crowds.

Other popular currencies

If you are planning a future holiday or a trip that takes you to multiple destinations, these other currencies may be useful: