< Back What is the local currency? What denominations does it come in? What is the best way to exchange currency? What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)? Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash. By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid? What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it? Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages? Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country? What are typical banking hours? Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock? Is there any other money information that might help me? What is the local currency? The unit of currency is the UAE Dirham (Dh), to which there are 100 fils. ↑ Top What denominations does it come in? The Dirham is available in denominations of 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 notes and in 25 fils, 50 fils and 1 Dirham coins. ↑ Top What is the best way to exchange currency? Exchange centers/banks. ↑ Top What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)? Cash or credit/debit cards. ↑ Top Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash. You can use credit cards virtually everywhere; notable exceptions include taxis, some fast-food restaurants and small shops (souqs). ↑ Top By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid? Via internet, credit card or cash. ↑ Top What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it? Must be a holder of a valid UAE residence visa, certificate of employment and salary certificate. An account can be opened as soon as a visa has been issued (leasing a home is not a prerequisite). ↑ Top Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages? English is widely used in commercial establishments. Only a few other nationalities will find banking services in their native language (Hindi, Urdu). ↑ Top Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country? No. ↑ Top What are typical banking hours? From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Saturdays through Thursdays). ↑ Top Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock? Yes. ↑ Top Is there any other money information that might help me? None that are known. ↑ Top IMPORTANT NOTE: Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.