UAE
It is the time of the year for UAE!
AED
Africa & Middle East
The money
In the early 20th century, the United Arab Emirates began using British Sovereign gold coins and Maria Theresa Thalers; other currencies, such as the Indian Rupee, also circulated within the country. In 1959, they adopted the Persian Gulf Rupee, issued by the central bank of India, at a value equal to the Indian Rupee.
- Currency
- United Emirates Dirham
- Code
- AED
- Symbol
- د.إ
- One Australian dollar
- 2.5308 AED
Bank notes
- 5
- 10
- 20
- 50,100
- 200
- 500
- 1000
Coins
- 25 fils
- 50 fils
- 1 dirham
We supply notes only. Coins are listed so you know what the change in your pocket is worth.
What things cost in UAE
The left column is what the guide records locally. The right column is that same figure through today’s rate — the arithmetic we would do for you at the counter, done here instead.
| Everyday price | Dirhams | Australian dollars |
|---|---|---|
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range restaurant | 175 | A$69.15 |
| One-way ticket on local transport | 5 | A$1.98 |
| Bottle of water | 1.37 | A$0.54 |
Converted at 1 AUD = 2.5308 AED, our online rate as at 19 Sep 2026, 08:28. Local prices are a guide to what you will pay, not a quote.
Before you go
- Choose the right time to travel. The best time to visit the UAE is between October and April. Despite being called the “winter season”, the weather can still get up to 35°C and is the ideal time to go swimming at the beach. This period brings gorgeous blue skies and warm weather, allowing you to avoid the unbearable scorching heat of the middle eastern summer, while still being able to freely roam the country in comfortable weather.
- Dress conservatively unless you’re at the beach. The UAE is built on the values of Islamic traditions, so be sure to respect these values and dress modestly in the country, even in modern cities like Dubai. Short skirts or shorts are bound to draw some disapproving glances. It’s best for men and women to always keep their shoulders and upper arms and legs covered in public.
- Consider tipping if you were given exceptional service. Although not mandatory or expected, tipping is a common practice. Most restaurants will add a compulsory 10% service charge on the bill. Tipping taxi drivers, luggage carriers and hotel staff is not needed, but will most certainly be appreciated by the locals and is a fantastic way to show your gratitude!
- Stay away from PDA. Public displays of affection are considered extremely offensive in the UAE, with many tourists having been arrested or even imprisoned for doing so! Anything more than holding hands can easily land you in trouble with authorities, so save anything romantic for somewhere more private.
- Be careful of alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol is most certainly legal and alcohol can be found at any nightclub, bar or hotel, but it’s important to be responsible about your consumption. Public drunkenness is immensely frowned upon and can easily land you in a lot of trouble with the police if you are not careful. Party responsibly and avoid overconsumption!
UAE, photographed
-
Burj Khalifa — view full size
Burj Khalifa -
Dubai — view full size
Dubai -
The Dubai Fountain — view full size
The Dubai Fountain -
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah — view full size
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah -
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center — view full size
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center -
Dubai Desert — view full size
Dubai Desert
Order your AED before you fly
Order online at today’s rate and collect it at the Ringwood counter, or have it delivered. The rate on this page is the rate we transact at.