All about UAE currency symbols and what they mean
- About the UAE Currency
- UAE Dirham Backstory
- Symbols on the UAE Coins
- UAE Currency Symbols on Banknotes
- FAQs
Do you ever stop and notice the various objects that appear on your UAE dirham coins and notes? While they may seem a bit abstract, many of these symbols represent the UAE’s heritage and reflect the country’s progression from a fishing town to the multicultural metropolis it is today. Let’s look at some of the well-known UAE currency symbols.
OVERVIEW OF THE UAE CURRENCY
The currency of the UAE is the dirham and is denoted by coins and bank notes, many of which feature the national symbols of the UAE. The currency is abbreviated as AED, Dh or Dhs. The dirham sign in Arabic is represented as د.إ
The Dubai currency name ‘dirham’ traces its roots to the ancient Greek word ‘drachmae,’ which translates to ‘handful’ in English. This historical link tells about the region’s longstanding trade and currency exchange tradition, possibly going back to when economic transactions were done through the bartering system.
WHERE IT ALL STARTED – A HISTORY OF THE UAE DIRHAM
The UAE Dirham you see now is not what it used to be. Before 1966, several emirates in the country used the Gulf rupee, which had its value tied directly to the Indian rupee. However, in 1966, India devalued the Gulf rupee, and the emirates started to seek a new currency solution.
While most emirates adopted the Qatar and Dubai riyal, Abu Dhabi chose the Bahraini dinar, highlighting the need for a single currency to represent the soon-to-be unified nation. Consequently, the UAE dirham was introduced on May 19, 1973, marking a significant step towards the nation’s economic independence.
However, the new currency wasn’t adopted immediately across all emirates. For instance, Ras Al Khaimah transitioned from the Bahraini dinar to the dirham at an exchange rate of 1 dinar to 10 dirhams. The initial issuance of the new currency included both coins and notes.
Mirroring the previous Qatar and Dubai dirham denominations, the UAE has issued commemorative coins, celebrating significant events and rulers and enriching the nation’s diverse monetary history.
WHAT ARE THE SYMBOLS ON THE UAE COINS
Coins in the UAE come in various denominations—1 fils, 5 fils, 10 fils, 25 fils, 50 fils and 1 dirham. The smaller denominations are available in bronze, while the larger ones are made of cupro-nickel. Due to their minimal value and infrequency in everyday transactions, the 1, 5, and 10 fils coins are rarely encountered, leading to the rounding of amounts to the nearest 25 fils.
The obverse (front) of these coins each has a unique symbol, with the Hijri and Gregorian years of mint embossed below. The reverse (back) of the UAE coins usually features the lettering ‘United Arab Emirates’ in English and Arabic, along with the coin’s denomination. All numbers on the UAE coins are represented in Arabic characters.
You can even find several commemorative coins minted specifically to feature rulers of the UAE and other designs to celebrate landmark events.
Here is a closer look at each unique symbol on the UAE coins and what they represent.
AED 1 COIN – DALLAH OR A LOCAL TEAPOT
Representing the core of Emirati culture and hospitality for guests, the Dallah coffee pot appears on the most commonly-used denomination of the UAE currency – AED 1 coins.
Emirati families have been welcoming guests with a steaming pot of Arabic coffee and dates for centuries. Arabic coffee (qahwa) is usually a delicious blend of cardamom and saffron served in tiny cups.
50 FILS – THREE OIL DERRICKS
The little structures on 50 fils coins are three standing oil derricks, marking a turning point in the UAE’s history. Oil was first discovered in the 1950s, even before the seven emirates had united to form the UAE, contributing massively to the country’s progress.
Before the discovery of oil, fishing and pearl diving were the UAE’s main income sources. The first export from Abu Dhabi took place in 1962. And the rest, as they say, is history.
25 FILS – AN ARABIAN SAND GAZELLE
Animals are a popular UAE currency symbol on coins and dirham notes. The tiny 25 fils coins feature the Arabian sand gazelle, a native of the UAE’s deserts.
These magnificent creatures are mostly found in the deserts of Abu Dhabi and are an integral part of the UAE’s wildlife ecosystem. They are known to have existed since the time of the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may he forever rest in peace), the Founding Father of the UAE.
WHAT ARE THE UAE CURRENCY SYMBOLS ON THE BANK NOTES?
The banknotes of the UAE currency can be found in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000. The obverse and reverse of the dirham notes showcase a unique UAE currency symbol. Here is a look at the symbols on the bank notes of the UAE currency.
AED 5 – SALEM AL MUTAWA AND BLUE OUQ OR AJMAN FORT AND RAS AL KHAIMAH’S DHAYAH FORT
The UAE currency sign on the original five dirham banknote portrays Salem Al Mutawa, a prominent figure whose life and legacy are deeply woven into the nation’s history. His inclusion in the currency is a powerful symbol of his significant contribution to the UAE’s historical narrative.
Adorning the Arabic side of the five dirham notes is the iconic Blue Souk, a prominent landmark in Sharjah. This bustling marketplace stands as a modern-day embodiment of a classic bazaar. Its presence on the currency signifies Sharjah’s unique blend of cultural heritage and economic vibrancy.
The UAE introduced a new 5 dirham polymer note in 2022 with the same colour scheme as the older one. The note’s design depicts the Ajman Fort (which has now turned into the Ajman Museum) on the front side.
The note’s rear features an image of Ras Al Khaimah’s highest hilltop fort, Dhayah Fort.
AED 10 – OMANI DRAGGER AND DATE TREES OR SHEIKH ZAYED MOSQUE AND KHORFAKKAN THEATRE
The old 10 dirham note, still in use, features the Omani dagger, also known as the Omani Khanjar. Historically used for hunting by men, it has become an enduring symbol of the UAE’s rich heritage and represents power and tradition.
On the English side of the old note, you’ll see a Date tree with many dates hanging from it. In the older days, fruit was the major source of sustenance for the region. Hence, its presence on the note signifies the value of shelter and hospitality.
Launched in 2022, the new 10 dirham banknote features the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on the Arabic side, an iconic landmark in Abu Dhabi. The awe-inspiring symbol of Sharjah’s Khorfakkan Amphitheatre graces the back of the denomination or the English side.
AED 20 – DHOW SAILING BOAT AND DUBAI CREEK GOLF AND YACHT CLUB
The iconic dhow boat appears on the English side of the AED 20 currency note. Early-day Emiratis relied almost solely on fishing and pearl diving for their income. These traditional sailing vessels would take divers and fishermen to sea for months.
Sailing and free diving were dominant occupations among most local men. Like other national symbols, this serves as a reminder of the pre-oil era in the UAE, when men needed to rely on dhow boats to survive.
On the Arabic side, you’ll see the popular Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club. It represents Dubai’s blend of tradition and modern luxury. The club currently hosts an array of recreational activities and is a great place for tourists to visit.
AED 50 – AL FAHIDI FORT AND ARABIAN ORYX OR FOUNDING FATHERS OF THE UAE
The old 50 dirham note still in use features the Arabian Oryx – the UAE’s national animal and a significant UAE currency symbol. Native to the UAE, the Oryx roams the land with pride.
Once almost extinct, the population of these magnificent creatures was revived thanks to the constant conservation efforts of the late president of the UAE. The Arabian Oryx is a testament to the country’s constant dedication towards preserving its native wildlife.
The English side of the currency adorns the Al Fahidi Fort. The ancient site dates back to 1787 and is a testament to Dubai’s transformation over the years. This historic structure has witnessed and served various roles throughout its lifetime. Initially, it functioned as a residence for the monarch and a secure storage facility for military weapons. Over time, it also served as a prison and a formidable defensive stronghold.
Furthermore, on its 50th anniversary, the UAE introduced a new 50 dirham note. The front of the banknote features a memorial portrait of the UAE’s Founding Fathers after they signed the union document.
The reverse side of the note has a picture of the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (first president of the UAE) signing the Union Agreement on 2nd December 1971 and an image of the Etihad Museum.
The note also has a picture of Wahat Al Karama —the war memorial — on both sides as a tribute to the fallen soldiers and Emiratis who gave their lives in service to the country.
AED 100 – AL FAHIDI FORT AND WORLD TRADE CENTRE
The next UAE currency symbol on our list is the Al Fahidi Fort. This place acted as the residence of the rulers and a fort of defence for the country over 200 years ago. Built in 1787, this is one of the most important landmarks representing the UAE heritage.
The fort still stands in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood as the Dubai Museum. Visitors to the museum can catch a glimpse of the historical artefacts and get insight into the life of people in the UAE back in the day.
The reverse side of the banknote shows the World Trade Centre. Once the tallest building in the UAE, the tower was completed in 1979 and officially integrated by Queen Elizabeth II that same year. As of now, the tower is used for commercial and cultural events.
AED 200 – THE CENTRAL BANK OF THE UAE AND THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT ZAYED SPORTS CITY
The Central Bank of the UAE is the entity responsible for managing the country’s currency, which makes it a fitting symbol on the 200 dirham note.
Along with the building image, the note features a picture of a falcon, the national bird of the UAE. Hued in light shades of orange and yellow, the 200 dirham note looks alluring.
However, The National Stadium at Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi is featured on the other side of the AED 200 banknote. The stadium was built in 1979 by the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
AED 500 – THE FALCON AND THE JUMEIRAH MOSQUE OR TERRA SUSTAINABILITY PAVILION AND MUSEUM OF THE FUTURE
You may already know the importance of these majestic birds and their central role in Emirati culture. It resulted in the much-loved tradition of falconry today. Bedouins first used these birds for hunting small prey native to the desert.
This survival tactic gradually became a favourite pastime amongst locals and a fascinating cultural aspect for tourists today. The national bird of the UAE is a regular on UAE currency notes and sits proudly as the country’s official emblem.
The UAE currency name and symbol on the other side of the old 500 dirham note is the Jumeirah Mosque. This iconic landmark and one of the largest mosques in Dubai represents the country’s religious heritage and cultural diversity. Notably, the Jumeirah Mosque was one of the first in the UAE to open its doors to non-Muslims, signifying the nation’s openness and tolerance.
The new polymer AED 500 banknote features a prominent image of the Terra Sustainability Pavilion on the obverse side. This remarkable structure portrays the UAE’s commitment to environmental responsibility, boasting a design that achieves net zero energy and water usage. Additionally, subtle details reveal images of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Founding Father, embedded within the pavilion’s windows.
On the reverse side, this UAE currency symbol reveals the Museum of the Future, characterised by its unique oval shape. The iconic Emirates Towers are flanking the museums, a pair of skyscrapers symbolising the city’s economic prowess and the famous Burj Khalifa.
AED 1,000 – QASR AL HOSN AND SKYSCRAPERS OR THE SPACE SHUTTLE/ HOPE PROBE AND BARAKAH NUCLEAR ENERGY PLANT
The Dubai currency sign on the old 1,000 dirham note shows Qasr Al Hosn, an ancient watchtower in Abu Dhabi where the first president of the UAE was born. Previously, the tower was a residence for the royal families, but now, it is a beautiful museum with many historical figures to behold.
The flip side of the AED 1,000 banknote shows a picture of the UAE skyscraper in 1998. Considering how far UAE has come today, the word skyscraper might not be appropriate to describe the buildings shown in the picture. However, it portrays the country’s commitment to overcome all hindrances and make progress.
The largest denomination of bank notes in the UAE is the 1,000 dirham note. The UAE Central Bank (CBUAE), for the 51st National Day, released a new 1,000 dirham banknote, which features different hues of brown, classic ‘blue marks of the UAE nation brand’, drawings and inscriptions. space-themed layout.
The new design has a space-themed layout, featuring a portrait of UAE’s founding father and a space shuttle, with the words, ‘Emirates Mission to Explore Mars – the Hope Probe’, referring to the UAE’s 2021 mission to Mars – on the front.
A picture of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant graces the back side of the note, representing the UAE’s commitment to sustainability. The recyclable polymer note also features an image of an astronaut on both sides. To combat counterfeiting, the CBUAE has added advanced security features like ‘KINEGRAM® foil stripe’ to the new note.
FAQs ABOUT UAE CURRENCY SYMBOLS
HOW TO DETECT A FAKE CURRENCY NOTE IN THE UAE?
It’s easy to detect counterfeit notes as they feel like photocopied paper.
- The genuine notes have a smooth texture due to intaglio printing.
- Unlike real notes, fake ones feature dull or blurred images/symbols.
- The new notes have security features to avoid counterfeiting.
WHERE CAN I EXCHANGE DAMAGED CURRENCY NOTES IN THE UAE?
Generally, banks accept damaged notes from companies or individuals who have an account with the bank. Depending on where you live, you can head to the nearby bank to exchange damaged currency.
There are many banks across the UAE. You can go to any bank in Dubai. Or, if you live in the capital city, consider going to a nearby bank in Abu Dhabi. Those living in the northern emirates can seek assistance from banks in Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah or Umm Al Quwain.
IS AED A STRONG CURRENCY?
Although the AED might not hold the top spot in global strength rankings, it remains a reliable and stable currency within the region due to its peg to the USD, the strength of the UAE’s economy and low inflation.
HOW TO BUY BITCOIN IN UAE?
In the Middle East, particularly in Dubai, there has been considerable demand for Bitcoin. You can buy bitcoins in Dubai via companies known as exchanges. If you live in Dubai, you have access to a variety of Bitcoin exchanges.
So, there you have it – a glimpse into the rich and fascinating story of UAE currency symbols.
Want to know more about the UAE? Check out these heritage sites in Dubai for something old, and our round-up of the UAE’s tallest buildings for a taste of something new!
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