{"id":68215,"date":"2017-10-13T16:10:32","date_gmt":"2017-10-13T15:10:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/?page_id=68215"},"modified":"2026-05-11T05:40:28","modified_gmt":"2026-05-11T04:40:28","slug":"uae","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/travel-money\/uae","title":{"rendered":"Best ways to spend travel money in the UAE (Dubai): Debit and prepaid cards"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a nation of 7 different Emirates and is more than just a stop-over on the way to Australia or Asia. This ultramodern oasis features the F1, Dubai Gold Cup, Ferrari World, the world\u2019s tallest building, museums and malls.<\/p><div class=\"keyTakeaways\">\n  <div class=\"keyTakeaways__header\">\n          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"32\" height=\"21\" viewbox=\"0 0 314.16 201.03\" fill=\"none\">\n  <path d=\"M212.32,190.62c-19.66,0-38.8-6.44-54.42-18.24-15.63,11.79-34.77,18.24-54.42,18.24-49.84,0-90.39-40.55-90.39-90.39V9.83h199.24c49.84,0,90.39,40.55,90.39,90.39s-40.55,90.39-90.39,90.39Z\" fill=\"white\"><\/path>\n  <path d=\"M212.32,15.9c46.57,0,84.33,37.75,84.33,84.33h0c0,46.57-37.75,84.33-84.33,84.33h0c-20.75,0-39.74-7.51-54.42-19.94-14.69,12.43-33.68,19.94-54.42,19.94h0c-46.57,0-84.33-37.75-84.33-84.33V15.9h193.18M212.32,3.76H7.01v96.46c0,53.19,43.27,96.46,96.46,96.46,19.47,0,38.46-5.92,54.43-16.84,15.96,10.91,34.95,16.84,54.42,16.84,53.19,0,96.46-43.27,96.46-96.46S265.51,3.76,212.32,3.76h0Z\" fill=\"#232320\"><\/path>\n  <path d=\"M216.34,90.21c.19-1.69,1.76-2.87,3.43-2.6,11.91,1.94,22.41-7.31,20.93-20.1-.45-3.93-2.28-6.56-4.43-9.31-1.05-1.35-.74-3.34.71-4.26,15.6-9.82,31.64-1.91,40.78,13.29,11.21,18.64,11.54,47.15.53,65.94-15.41,26.3-42.91,23.48-56.04-3.04-6.09-12.29-7.47-26.4-5.92-39.93Z\" fill=\"#232320\"><\/path>\n  <path d=\"M105.92,90.21c.19-1.69,1.76-2.87,3.43-2.6,11.91,1.94,22.41-7.31,20.93-20.1-.45-3.93-2.28-6.56-4.43-9.31-1.05-1.35-.74-3.34.71-4.26,15.6-9.82,31.64-1.91,40.78,13.29,11.21,18.64,11.54,47.15.53,65.94-15.41,26.3-42.91,23.48-56.04-3.04-6.09-12.29-7.47-26.4-5.92-39.93Z\" fill=\"#232320\"><\/path>\n<\/svg>        <h3 data-toc=\"false\">Key takeaways<\/h3>\n  <\/div>\n\n    <ul>\n          <li>The currency in the UAE is the dirham.<\/li>\n          <li>You can withdraw cash from ATMs, which are widely available.<\/li>\n          <li>Choose a debit card with low fees (or no fees) for travel from <a href=\"#top-picks\">our top picks<\/a>.<\/li>\n      <\/ul>\n\n  \n  <\/div>\n<h3 id=\"top-picks\">Low cost travel money options for UAE<\/h3><script id=\"toppicks-datalayer\">\n  window.dataLayerState = [{\"TopPicksData_cardCategory\":\"Low fees + sign-up bonus\",\"TopPicksData_providerLabel\":\"Revolut\",\"TopPicksData_primaryCta\":\"true\",\"TopPicksData_hasReward\":\"false\",\"TopPicksData_position\":1},{\"TopPicksData_cardCategory\":\"No overseas fees card \\u0026 budgeting\",\"TopPicksData_providerLabel\":\"Monzo\",\"TopPicksData_primaryCta\":\"true\",\"TopPicksData_hasReward\":\"false\",\"TopPicksData_position\":2},{\"TopPicksData_cardCategory\":\"No FX fees\",\"TopPicksData_providerLabel\":\"Wise\",\"TopPicksData_primaryCta\":\"true\",\"TopPicksData_hasReward\":\"false\",\"TopPicksData_position\":3}];\n<\/script>\n\n\n  <div id=\"toppicks\" class=\"topPicks rewards--container topPicksF1\" data-count-items=\"3\" data-desktop-count=\"3\" data-niche=\"UKFTM\" data-rewards-component=\"top-picks\">\n        <div class=\"topPicks__list\">\n      <div class=\"u-grid u-grid--alignStretch\">\n                  <div class=\"u-grid__col topPicks__col u-3\/4 u-5\/12@s u-1\/3@l\">\n            <article class=\"topPicks__card luna-card luna-card--stretch\">\n\n              <header class=\"topPicks__header\">\n                <p class=\"topPicks__category\">Low fees + sign-up bonus<\/p>\n              <\/header>\n\n              <div class=\"topPicks__body\">\n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__badgeRow\">\n                                          <p class=\"topPicks__lozenge topPicks__lozenge--promoted\"><span>Promoted<\/span><\/p>\n                                        \n                  <\/div>\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__nameRow topPicks__nameRow--empty\">\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <figure class=\"topPicks__figure\">\n                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/66db251e3e0db.png\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/66db251e3e0db.png\" class=\"topPicks__image\" alt=\"Revolut logo\" loading=\"lazy\">\n                                  <\/figure>\n\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__ctaRow\">\n                                      <a class=\"luna-button luna-button--success luna-button--fluid topPicks__cta\" href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/redirect\/uk\/travel-money\/revoluttravelmoney-uk-secure.html?nb=1&amp;src_country=uk&amp;redirect_tracking_params=%7B%22placement_type%22%3A%22top_picks%22%2C%22niche_code%22%3A%22UKFTM%22%2C%22product_id%22%3A%224ddde83d-92a3-41cb-a518-97352f192ba8%22%2C%22product_name%22%3A%22Revolut%2B%22%2C%22provider_id%22%3A%22d6fc0821-41db-4faa-a3ab-cd9184210ad9%22%2C%22position%22%3A%221%22%2C%22offer_id%22%3A%2221270%22%2C%22post_id%22%3A%2268215%22%2C%22post_path%22%3A%22travel-money%252Fuae%22%2C%22post_country%22%3A%22uk%22%7D\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-card-position=\"1\">Go to site<\/a>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"topPicks__disclaimerRow\">\n                                      <p class=\"topPicks__ctaDisclaimer\">T&amp;Cs apply<\/p>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                \n                                <div class=\"topPicks__offerRow\">\n                                      <div class=\"topPicks__offer\">\n                      <svg class=\"topPicks__offerIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #1dd751\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#gift\"><\/use><\/svg>\n                      <span class=\"topPicks__offerText\">\u00a320 welcome bonus<\/span>\n                                          <\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n                \n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__descriptionRow\">\n                                          <ul class=\"topPicks__features\">\n                                                                              <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Pay like a local with excellent exchange rates<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Send money in 29 currencies<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Cashback on hotel bookings<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                        <\/ul>\n                                      <\/div>\n                              <\/div>\n\n            <\/article>\n\n                      <\/div>\n                  <div class=\"u-grid__col topPicks__col u-3\/4 u-5\/12@s u-1\/3@l\">\n            <article class=\"topPicks__card luna-card luna-card--stretch\">\n\n              <header class=\"topPicks__header\">\n                <p class=\"topPicks__category\">No overseas fees card &amp; budgeting<\/p>\n              <\/header>\n\n              <div class=\"topPicks__body\">\n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__badgeRow\">\n                                          <p class=\"topPicks__lozenge topPicks__lozenge--promoted\"><span>Promoted<\/span><\/p>\n                                        \n                  <\/div>\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__nameRow topPicks__nameRow--empty\">\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <figure class=\"topPicks__figure\">\n                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/64d4f89e1aa8f.png\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/64d4f89e1aa8f.png\" class=\"topPicks__image\" alt=\"Monzo logo\" loading=\"lazy\">\n                                  <\/figure>\n\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__ctaRow\">\n                                      <a class=\"luna-button luna-button--success luna-button--fluid topPicks__cta\" href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/redirect\/uk\/travel-money\/monzo-travel-uk-secure.html?nb=1&amp;src_country=uk&amp;redirect_tracking_params=%7B%22placement_type%22%3A%22top_picks%22%2C%22niche_code%22%3A%22UKFTM%22%2C%22product_id%22%3A%224b7deca5-4152-460d-bd12-4d0074d34d61%22%2C%22product_name%22%3A%22Monzo%22%2C%22provider_id%22%3A%22571d60cb-7ae7-4360-858d-d999e56e35a5%22%2C%22position%22%3A%222%22%2C%22offer_id%22%3A%2225676%22%2C%22post_id%22%3A%2268215%22%2C%22post_path%22%3A%22travel-money%252Fuae%22%2C%22post_country%22%3A%22uk%22%7D\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-card-position=\"2\">Go to site<\/a>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"topPicks__disclaimerRow\">\n                                      <p class=\"topPicks__ctaDisclaimer\">T&amp;Cs apply<\/p>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                \n                                <div class=\"topPicks__offerRow\">\n                                      <div class=\"topPicks__offer\">\n                      <svg class=\"topPicks__offerIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #1dd751\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#gift\"><\/use><\/svg>\n                      <span class=\"topPicks__offerText\">Earn interest on your holiday money with a savings pot<\/span>\n                                          <\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n                \n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__descriptionRow\">\n                                          <ul class=\"topPicks__features\">\n                                                                              <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Make fee-free cash withdrawals<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Spend abroad with no fees<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Split costs with friends in seconds<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                        <\/ul>\n                                      <\/div>\n                              <\/div>\n\n            <\/article>\n\n                      <\/div>\n                  <div class=\"u-grid__col topPicks__col u-3\/4 u-5\/12@s u-1\/3@l\">\n            <article class=\"topPicks__card luna-card luna-card--stretch\">\n\n              <header class=\"topPicks__header\">\n                <p class=\"topPicks__category\">No FX fees<\/p>\n              <\/header>\n\n              <div class=\"topPicks__body\">\n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__badgeRow\">\n                                          <p class=\"topPicks__lozenge topPicks__lozenge--promoted\"><span>Promoted<\/span><\/p>\n                                        \n                  <\/div>\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__nameRow topPicks__nameRow--empty\">\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <figure class=\"topPicks__figure\">\n                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/66db25e6c6685.png\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/66db25e6c6685.png\" class=\"topPicks__image\" alt=\"Wise logo\" loading=\"lazy\">\n                                  <\/figure>\n\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__ctaRow\">\n                                      <a class=\"luna-button luna-button--success luna-button--fluid topPicks__cta\" href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/redirect\/uk\/travel-money\/wise-multucyrrency-uk-secure.html?nb=1&amp;src_country=uk&amp;redirect_tracking_params=%7B%22placement_type%22%3A%22top_picks%22%2C%22niche_code%22%3A%22UKFTM%22%2C%22product_id%22%3A%22bf57b237-53f7-4885-adc9-f9fb9275c9b7%22%2C%22product_name%22%3A%22Wise%2BMulti-currency%2BAccount%22%2C%22provider_id%22%3A%2223bc3143-484a-4e3e-ae68-28e0f4ccea79%22%2C%22position%22%3A%223%22%2C%22offer_id%22%3A%2225128%22%2C%22post_id%22%3A%2268215%22%2C%22post_path%22%3A%22travel-money%252Fuae%22%2C%22post_country%22%3A%22uk%22%7D\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-card-position=\"3\">Go to site<\/a>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"topPicks__disclaimerRow\">\n                                      <p class=\"topPicks__ctaDisclaimer\">T&amp;Cs apply<\/p>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                \n                                <div class=\"topPicks__offerRow\">\n                                      <div class=\"topPicks__offer\">\n                      <svg class=\"topPicks__offerIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #1dd751\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#gift\"><\/use><\/svg>\n                      <span class=\"topPicks__offerText\">More than 150 countries<\/span>\n                                          <\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n                \n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__descriptionRow\">\n                                          <ul class=\"topPicks__features\">\n                                                                              <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Open an account in minutes<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Use in more than 150 countries<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>2 free cash withdrawals per month<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                        <\/ul>\n                                      <\/div>\n                              <\/div>\n\n            <\/article>\n\n                      <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"toppicks-methodology\" class=\"topPicksMethodology--shortcode luna-accordionGroup accordionGroup\">\n    <div class=\"luna-accordion\" data-accordion=\"accordion\">\n        <div class=\"luna-accordion__summary\">\n            <h4 class=\"luna-accordion__heading\">\n                <button class=\"luna-accordion__action collapsed\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"methodology-expander-0000000001\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#methodology-expander-0000000001\">\n                    <span class=\"luna-accordion__title\">How we chose these accounts<\/span>\n                    <svg class=\"luna-icon topPicksMethodology__toggleIcon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                        <use xlink:href=\"#chevron-down\" data-toggle-icon=\"show\" class=\"topPicksMethodology__toggleIcon-down\"><\/use>\n                        <use xlink:href=\"#chevron-up\" data-toggle-icon=\"hide\" class=\"topPicksMethodology__toggleIcon-up is-hidden\"><\/use>\n                    <\/svg>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"luna-accordion__details collapse\" aria-hidden=\"true\" id=\"methodology-expander-0000000001\" data-accordion=\"details\" style=\"height: 0px;\">\n            <div class=\"accordionContent\">The accounts shown above are promoted picks. If we show a \"Promoted for\" pick, this means it's been chosen from among our partners and is based on factors that include special features or offers, and the commission we receive. Keep in mind that our picks may not always be the best fit for you, and it's important to compare for yourself to find a product that works for you.<\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4 id=\"debit-cards\">Using debit cards<\/h4><p>A debit card can be used to make over-the-counter purchases and cash withdrawals from ATMs. Like credit cards and travel cards, debit card transactions are protected against fraud and unauthorised transactions.<\/p><p>If you use your regular debit card, it\u2019s likely you\u2019ll be charged a foreign transaction fee whenever you spend in the UAE, and if you withdraw cash you\u2019ll be charged this fee plus a cash withdrawal fee. The good news is that some debit cards waive these fees when you use them abroad, so it\u2019s worth doing some research to find the best option.<\/p><h4 id=\"travel-money-cards\">Using prepaid travel cards<\/h4><p>UAE dirhams are supported by most travel cards issued in the UK. These allow you to load up your card in advance, locking in a competitive exchange rate before your trip, and then spend on them without incurring currency conversion fees. Many also come with an additional, emergency card in case the first one is lost or stolen. A travel card can be used to make over-the-counter purchases and ATM withdrawals in the Emirates. Just be aware that some cards still charge ATM withdrawal fees. <\/p><h4 id=\"credit-cards\">Using credit cards<\/h4><p>Visa and Mastercard credit cards can be used without issue at businesses in the UAE. Some hotels in Abu Dhabi and Dubai require a credit card for deposits, so it might be good to carry one as a backup. However, to avoid foreign transaction fees you\u2019ll need to look for a credit card specifically designed for overseas use. Be aware that even if your credit card doesn\u2019t charge a cash advance fee for ATM withdrawals, you will still usually pay interest from the moment you withdraw your cash so this type of transaction is best avoided. <\/p><h4 id=\"travellers-cheque\">Using traveller\u2019s cheques<\/h4><p>It is probably better to take a travel-friendly debit or prepaid card for ATM withdrawals. Banks and exchange offices will charge a commission to cash traveller\u2019s cheques and you can get a better rate from the ATM.<\/p><h4 id=\"cash\">Paying with cash in the UAE<\/h4><p>You can use your credit card, debit card or travel card in many places throughout the UAE. Smaller businesses such as cafeterias and cafes, some public transportation, street vendors and souks are all cash only. ATMs are widespread in the cities, you will have many chances to withdraw cash if you need it.<\/p><h3>Which are the best bank accounts for spending in the UAE?<\/h3><p>There are many banking options for spending in the UAE, however the two current accounts that currently sit at the top of the pile are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/current-accounts\/revolut-vs-monzo\">Monzo and Revolut<\/a>.<\/p><h4>Can I use Monzo in Dubai and the UAE?<\/h4><p>Yes, you can use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/current-accounts\/monzo-review\">Monzo<\/a> in Dubai and the UAE. Monzo cards, both physical and virtual, can be used anywhere that accepts Mastercard, which is widely accepted in Dubai. You won\u2019t be charged for using your Monzo card to make purchases, however as the UAE is not in the EEA, you\u2019ll be restricted to a \u00a3200 withdrawal limit at UAE ATMs every 30 days, and if you go over, a 3% charge will kick in. Monzo automatically converts to the UAE Dirham using Mastercard\u2019s exchange rate, without adding any mark-ups or hidden charges.<\/p><h4>Can I use Revolut in Dubai and the UAE?<\/h4><p>Yes, you can use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/current-accounts\/revolut-review\">Revolut<\/a> in Dubai and the UAE, as the UAE Dirham (AED) is fully supported by Revolut. Revolut cards, physical and virtual, can be used at all shops, hotels, restaurants, ATMs etc. that accept Visa and Mastercard, which are both widely accepted in the UAE. Purchases can be made abroad for <strong>free on weekdays<\/strong> up to a limit of \u00a31,000 per month, and withdrawals are also free on weekdays up to a limit of \u00a3200 per month. But on weekends, Revolut applies a 1% mark-up to standard-plan users on both purchases and withdrawals. <\/p><p>If you go over your fee-free limit, Revolut charges 2% on each withdrawal until the end of the month. For all purchases, Revolut will automatically exchange to AED at the current exchange rate.<\/p><h3 id=\"howmuch\">How many dirhams do I need to bring to the UAE?<\/h3><p>Accommodation, food and holiday activities can be expensive in the UAE. There are less than a handful of hostels, although value 2- and 3-star hotels are widely available in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.<\/p><p>Because the UAE is filled with many different nationalities, food from all over the world is available for cheap. As well as expensive theme park visits and sightseeing trips, there are also ways for you to explore Abu Dhabi and Dubai for free.<\/p><table class=\"custom-table\"><tbody><tr><th style=\"text-align: center;\" width=\"15%\">Abu Dhabi<\/th><th style=\"text-align: center;\" width=\"20%\">Budget<\/th><th style=\"text-align: center;\" width=\"20%\">Mid-range<\/th><th style=\"text-align: center;\" width=\"20%\">Expensive<\/th><\/tr><tr><td><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full sml-image-center wp-image-586493\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-au\/wp-uploads\/2016\/04\/to-sleep.png\" alt=\"to-sleep\" width=\"80\" height=\"80\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-au\/wp-uploads\/2016\/04\/to-sleep.png?fit=180 180w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-au\/wp-uploads\/2016\/04\/to-sleep.png?fit=240 240w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/td><td style=\"text-align: center;\">Hostel dorm bed<br>\u00a312 \u2013 \u00a330 per night<\/td><td style=\"text-align: center;\">3-star hotel<br>\u00a330 \u2013 \u00a370 per night<\/td><td style=\"text-align: center;\">5-star hotel<br>\u00a3200 \u2013 \u00a3500+ per night<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full sml-image-center wp-image-585447\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-au\/wp-uploads\/2016\/04\/food.png\" alt=\"food\" width=\"80\" height=\"69\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-au\/wp-uploads\/2016\/04\/food.png?fit=180 180w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-au\/wp-uploads\/2016\/04\/food.png?fit=240 240w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/td><td style=\"text-align: center;\">Chicken biryani at a cheap restaurant<br>\u00a35<\/td><td style=\"text-align: center;\">Shawarma platter at mid-priced restaurant<br>\u00a312<\/td><td style=\"text-align: center;\">Dine at Hakkasan Abu Dhabi \u2013 Signature Peking Duck<br>\u00a3150<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full sml-image-center wp-image-585449\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-au\/wp-uploads\/2016\/04\/camera.png\" alt=\"camera\" width=\"80\" height=\"75\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-au\/wp-uploads\/2016\/04\/camera.png?fit=180 180w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-au\/wp-uploads\/2016\/04\/camera.png?fit=240 240w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/td><td style=\"text-align: center;\">Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: free<br>Relax on Corniche Beach: free<\/td><td style=\"text-align: center;\">Visit the Ferrari World theme park<br>\u00a370 per adult<\/td><td style=\"text-align: center;\">Dubai sightseeing trip from Abu Dhabi<br>\u00a370 \u2013 \u00a3120 per person<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><p><sup>*Prices are indicative and subject to change.<\/sup><\/p><h3>Travel card, debit card or credit card?<\/h3><p>Travel cards enable you to preload cash onto your card before you set off on holiday, and with most accepting AED, you can avoid high conversion charges this way. A debit card can be a cost-effective way to withdraw money and make over-the-counter purchases if you have the right one. Plus, you could consider a travel credit card that waives fees and offers travel perks as this can be particularly useful for emergency spending.<\/p><p>You can use Visa and Mastercard in the tourist and expatriate centres of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. While many smaller businesses and taxis now take cards, you will need cash at some point on your travels. ATMs are widespread and you\u2019ll see some familiar names like Barclays and HSBC.<\/p><h4 id=\"summary\">A quick summary of travel money options for the UAE<\/h4><table class=\"custom-table\"><tbody><tr><th width=\"30%\">Travel money option<\/th><th width=\"35%\">Pros<\/th><th width=\"35%\">Cons<\/th><\/tr><tr><td>Debit cards for travel<\/td><td><ul class=\"list-1\"><li>Choose the right card to avoid foreign transaction and ATM fees<\/li><li>Widely accepted at UAE merchants and ATMs<\/li><\/ul><\/td><td><ul class=\"list-12\"><li>Choose the wrong card and you\u2019ll be hit with fees<\/li><li>Linked to your bank account which can be an issue if your card is stolen<\/li><\/ul><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Prepaid travel money cards<\/td><td><ul class=\"list-1\"><li>Allow you to load and spend in Dirham<\/li><li>No currency conversion fees for some cards<\/li><li>Let you make over the counter purchases and ATM withdrawals<\/li><\/ul><\/td><td><ul class=\"list-12\"><li>International ATM withdrawal fees, card issue fees, initial load fees, reload fees may apply<\/li><\/ul><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Credit cards for travel<\/td><td><ul class=\"list-1\"><li>Features such as complimentary travel insurance and reward points earning<\/li><li>Accepted worldwide<\/li><li>Security with chip and PIN<\/li><li>Contactless payment terminals are common<\/li><\/ul><\/td><td><ul class=\"list-12\"><li>Cash advance fees<\/li><li>Higher spending limit<\/li><\/ul><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Traveller\u2019s cheques<\/td><td><ul class=\"list-1\"><li>Acceptance<\/li><li>Security<\/li><\/ul><\/td><td><ul class=\"list-12\"><li>Can be costly with initial purchase charges<\/li><li>Not all merchants accept traveller\u2019s cheques<\/li><\/ul><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cash<\/td><td><ul class=\"list-1\"><li>Greater payment flexibility<\/li><li>Convenience<\/li><\/ul><\/td><td><ul class=\"list-12\"><li>More difficult to manage expenses<\/li><li>Higher risk of theft<\/li><\/ul><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><p style=\"text-align: right;\"><em><sub>This table is a general summary of the travel money products in the market. Features and benefits can vary between cards.<\/sub><\/em><\/p><p><strong>Exchanging cash<\/strong><\/p><p>If you have British pounds you want to change when you arrive, avoid exchanging cash at your hotel or at the airport. You will get a better rate if you wait until you get into the city. Have a look in shopping centres for exchange offices.<\/p><p id=\"atms\"><strong>ATM withdrawals<\/strong><\/p><p>Some of the banks you\u2019ll recognise in the UAE include Citi, HSBC and Barclays Bank. International banks will give you a higher ATM withdrawal limit than local banks. Try to select a withdrawal amount that will give you notes in smaller denominations. These machines have a tendency to dispense large bills, which can be a problem to cash outside your hotel.<\/p><p>You can find ATMs in the international airports, you can make a withdrawal once you go through customs and before you get in a taxi.<\/p><div id=\"interview\"><article class=\"luna-card luna-card--primary\">\n<div class=\"luna-card__block\">\n<h4 class=\"luna-card__title luna-card__title--small\">Example: Dean in Abu Dhabi<\/h4>\n<p>Dean visited Abu Dhabi so he could attend the F1 Grand Prix. He spent about 4 nights in Abu Dhabi and 2 nights in Dubai before flying back home. He was at the Yas Marina circuit to watch the practice and qualifying laps and the race itself. Dean says that at the end of each day, there were performances from major artists such as Florence and the Machine.<\/p><h5>Where could you use your cards?<\/h5><p>Dean says he could use his cards in most places he visited. He made a withdrawal from an ATM when he landed but he says he used his credit card to pay for the taxi from the airport and for a deposit when he checked into the hotel. When he ventured into the city, he could use his travel debit card all the time except for when he ate in a few of the smaller restaurants \u2013 he didn't ask if they took cards but he thinks there's a good chance they do. He adds that a few of the taxis he took were cash only.<\/p><h5>What about ATM withdrawals?<\/h5><p>Dean only made 2 ATM withdrawals. The first time was in the airport and the second time was when he spotted a Citibank ATM in the Abu Dhabi Mall. He says there was no issue with ATM acceptance or availability. There was always an ATM around the corner.<\/p><h5>Do you have any tips?<\/h5><p>Dean says there is a service charge of 10% at places like hotels and restaurants included in the bill, but he says it can't hurt to round taxis up to the nearest 5 dirhams either.<\/p>\n<p><small><strong>* This is a fictional, but realistic, example.<\/strong><\/small><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n\n\n\n<\/div><h3>Buying dirhams in the UK<\/h3><p>You can get a better rate of exchange if you withdraw cash from an ATM in the UAE using a low-fee travel account. If you want some cash in your pocket when you land, these institutions can sell you dirhams.<\/p><ul><li>No1 Currency<\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/travel-money\/fairfx-travel-money\">FairFX<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/travel-money\/marks-spencer-travel-money\">Marks &amp; Spencer<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/travel-money\/tesco-travel-money\">Tesco<\/a><\/li><li>Covent Garden FX<\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/travel-money\/ice-travel-money\">ICE<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/travel-money\/asda-travel-money\">ASDA<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/travel-money\/sainsburys-travel-money\">Sainsbury\u2019s<\/a><\/li><\/ul><h3>Bottom line<\/h3><p>The travel money products on this guide work best when they\u2019re used together. When using a credit card, you could take advantage of interest-free days, complimentary insurance and an emergency line of credit.<\/p><p>However, as it\u2019s best not to use credit cards for ATM withdrawals, you\u2019ll need to consider a travel-friendly debit card or prepaid card as well. Fees aside, spreading your travel budget across a couple of different travel money types means a lost or stolen card won\u2019t derail your trip.<\/p><article class=\"luna-card luna-card--alt\"><div class=\"luna-card__block has-padding-small\">Our \u201cBest for\u201d picks highlight top options in specific categories based on our independent evaluation (see our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/finder-score\">full methodology<\/a>), while \u201cPromoted\u201d tags indicate sponsored placements. Selected products may not suit everyone. We track selected market offers, which may not cover every product. Products are listed in no particular order unless specified, and inclusion or ordering may be influenced by popularity or commercial agreements. Most comparison table data is provided by Defaqto or sourced directly from providers. Always evaluate your own circumstances and consider independent advice before making major financial decisions.<\/div><\/article>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The cheapest and easiest ways to use travel money cards, debit and credit cards in the UAE.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":645,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"UAE Travel Money Guide","_yoast_wpseo_title":"Best ways to spend travel money in UAE (Dubai)","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Find out the cheapest and easiest ways to use travel money cards, debit and credit cards in the UAE 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12:29:52\",\"timezone_offset\":\" +00:00\",\"last_update_summary\":\"We fact checked our guide to ensure it is up to date and accurate.\"}","_last_major_update":"","_search_priority":0,"feature_finder_bot_teaser_enabled":false,"feature_finder_bot_teaser_message":"","feature_finder_bot_teaser_placeholder":"","feature_finder_bot_teaser_suggestions":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[525],"tags":[],"asset_tag":[],"class_list":["post-68215","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-travel-money"],"apple_news_notices":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.6.1 (Yoast SEO v27.6) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Best ways to spend travel money in UAE (Dubai)<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Find out the cheapest and easiest ways to use travel money cards, debit and credit cards in the UAE (Dubai).\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, 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