All about the new AED 500 polymer note
The UAE is the proud host of COP28, a high-profile event where global leaders and decision-makers will come together to discuss and implement sustainable practices. To celebrate this momentous occasion, as well as the country’s 52nd National Day, the Central Bank of UAE (CBUAE) has released a new AED 500 polymer note. Here are all the important details you need to know.
COP28: THE NEW AED 500 POLYMER NOTE
COP, or Climate Change Conference, is where different nations come together to develop a collective policy to combat climate change. The UAE has played a leading role in this initiative and is also hosting COP28 at Expo City Dubai.
The issuance of the new sustainable polymer AED 500 note is part of the third issuance of the national currency project with its distinctive designs and advanced security features. The design captures the country’s journey towards sustainability. It highlights the nation’s developmental approach, the role of the UAE on a global stage, track records of climate action, and the commitment to promoting sustainable solutions.
NEW AED 500 CURRENCY NOTE DESIGN AND COLOUR
The banknote features the country’s tourism and cultural landmarks and its unique sustainability model. The front side has an image of Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion in Expo City Dubai. This showcases the UAE’s commitment to a sustainable future as envisioned by the UAE Founder Father, the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may he forever rest in peace).
The backside of the new sustainable polymer AED 500 note has the Museum of the Future in Dubai. This represents the connection of the past with the future. Plus, two iconic landmarks, Emirates Towers and the Burj Khalifa, are present on the right side. The world’s tallest building generates most of its power from solar energy, fitting right into the UAE’s sustainability policy. Overall, the new AED 500 currency note design represents how the UAE envisions the future as a country.
Using polymer is also a strategic move, ensuring that the banknote is twice as durable as older paper notes. United Arab Emirates’ new 500-dirham polymer note is made of fully recyclable material, which decreases its environmental impact.
Aside from a new note design, the choice of colour is also significant. The harmonious blue shades are similar to the same denomination currently in circulation. On the backside, the fluorescent blue markings highlight the UAE nation brand. This is enhanced by intricate drawings and engravings thanks to advanced intaglio printing techniques.
In line with the vision of the wise leadership, and embodying the UAE’s global leadership role in climate action and a sustainable future, which resulted in its hosting of COP28, and coinciding with the country’s celebrations of the 52nd National Day, the #CentralBankUAE…
— Central Bank of the UAE (@centralbankuae) November 29, 2023
NEW AED 500 POLYMER NOTE SECURITY FEATURES
The security features of the new note include multi-coloured security chip technology known as Kingegram Colors®. UAE became the first country in the Middle East to install the largest foil strip of this kind on banknotes. Previously, this technology was used in the AED 1,000 note to combat counterfeiting.
The note also has prominent symbols in braille, ensuring that blind and visually impaired consumers can recognise the banknote.
WHAT ARE THEY SAYING?
The Governor of the CBUAE said that the note’s introduction is a further testament to the UAE’s commitment to sustainability.
“This issuance of the new AED 500 banknote reflects the vision of the wise leadership for a sustainable future and embodies the distinguished record of achievements and development aspirations of the UAE in various fields. We at the CBUAE are pleased to announce this issuance, coinciding with the country’s hosting COP28, which provides an ideal platform to unite the world’s efforts on ensuring effective sustainability action. We also affirm our commitment to ensuring an active role in the development journey by adopting the best practices and technologies in the banknote printing industry, supporting the competitiveness of the financial sector, and aligning with sustainable growth trends.”
FAQs about the new UAE AED 500 polymer note
WHEN WILL THE NEW BANKNOTE COME IN CIRCULATION?
The new AED 500 polymer note has been in circulation since 30th November 2023. Please remember that the United Arab Emirates’ new 500 dirham polymer note and the notes previously in circulation will continue to be accepted across the country.
WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT UAE CURRENCY SYMBOLS?
Read our guide about UAE currency signs to find all some fascinating details. For currency conversion rates, you can read our blog on United Arab Emirates Currency.
CAN I BUY BITCOIN IN THE UAE?
Wish to invest in cryptocurrencies? Here’s the process of buying Bitcoin in the UAE.
The issuance of the new AED 500 polymer note will be forever remembered with the momentous COP28. As we move towards a new world based on sustainable living, these milestones will likely be remembered fondly.
Title Image Credit: WAM