Exchange your Pounds to AED Dirhams with Sainsbury’s Bank
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and a favourite with sun-seeking Brits.
Whether you’re heading to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, buy your AED currency before you fly – and hit the malls and souks straight away.
Why buy UAE Dirham from us?
- Better Pound to AED exchange rates for Nectar members*
- 0% commission on Dirhams
- Order UAE currency online for collection at an instore bureau
- FREE home delivery on cash orders of £400 or more**
Pound to Dirham – how much will I get?
At Sainsbury’s Bank we want you to get the most out of your trip to the United Arab Emirates. We offer a competitive exchange rate when converting Pounds to Dirhams – or any other currency. With us you can focus on enjoying your holiday without the stress of exchanging currency when you arrive.
We don’t charge commission for exchanging money at Sainsbury’s Bank.
Want to know exactly how much you'll get for your money? Use our online online currency converter.
Rates may vary depending on whether you buy UAE Dirhams online, instore or by phone.
Are you a Nectar member?
You’ll get a better exchange rate on UAE Dirham ordered online or instore*.
Tell us your Nectar card number when you place your order. Not a Nectar member? Just download the Nectar app or register at nectar.com.
How to buy AED
Order online
Buying UAE Dirham online means you can place your order anytime, whether you’re at home, at work or on the go. We’re here to make it as convenient as possible for you.
Order by phone
You can also buy your UAE Dirham over the phone. Give us a call on 0345 355 2463 to order yours today and pay over the phone for home delivery. There’s also the option to pay and collect instore.
Visit us
Buy UAE Dirham at any of our instore travel money bureaux. These are located at Sainsbury’s stores across the UK, so you can even pick up your UAE Dirhams while doing the weekly shop.
Travel money card
Why not buy a prepaid travel card with UAE Dirham on it? With a Sainsbury's Bank Travel Money Card™ Mastercard®, you can take up to 15 currencies on your trip. Load up your Dirhams and manage your money on the go. You can buy things with your card as well as withdrawing cash from ATMs in the UAE.
Can I sell my unused UAE Dirham?
Got some leftover currency after your trip to Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
We buy back most foreign currency notes in denominations we sell (buy back rates vary daily). Simply bring it to one of our instore bureaux to convert UAE Dirham to GBP.
What countries accept UAE Dirhams?
The UAE Dirham is the official currency of the United Arab Emirates, used in all seven emirates or states:
- Abu Dhabi
- Dubai
- Ajman
- Fujairah
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Sharjah
- Umm Al-Quwain
UAE currency and typical costs
Facts and figures about UAE Dirham
- The UAE Dirham currency code is AED and is often abbreviated as Dhs or Dh
- One Dirham is divided into 100 fils or fuloos (Note that we don’t sell or buy coins)
- The Dirham has been officially used in the UAE since 1973 and has been ‘pegged’ to the US Dollar since 1997
- The AED is considered one of the most stable currencies in the world
Tourism tax in the UAE
As well as the price of accommodation, food and drink, bear in mind that you may have to pay ‘tourist taxes’ on holiday in the UAE.
According to the official UAE government site, restaurants, hotels and resorts may charge one or more of the following taxes:
- 10% tax on the room rate
- 10% service charge
- 10% municipality fees
- 6–10% city tax
- 6% tourism fee
Need a different currency?
If you’re planning multiple trips or visiting multiple countries in a single trip and need another foreign currency, we’re here to help. We have over 50 currencies available, including the Omani Rial and Saudi Riyal.
Travel tools and guides for your trip to the UAE
Whether you’re in downtown Dubai or relaxing in Ras Al Khaimah, our guides are packed with handy travel tips.
Flying with children
Check out our hints and tips for travelling with a newborn or toddler
Holiday planning
Our holiday checklist will help you create the perfect travel plan
Keeping your money safe
Find out the best ways to look after your money while you’re away
Buying UAE Dirhams FAQs
Should I take Dirham to Dubai?
Yes, Dirham is the most accepted currency in the UAE. You may find some places, such as big hotels will accept US Dollars, but most vendors will not accept any foreign currency.
Is it better to carry cash or card in Dubai?
While card is widely accepted in Dubai, there are some places where it can be a good idea to have cash. Keep some small notes available for shopping in the souks or hopping in a taxi.
Do taxis in Dubai take cash?
You’ll find taxis in Dubai take a mixture of payments including cash, Apple Pay and card. Always ask before hopping in.
Terms and conditions
*Nectar members receive better exchange rates on single purchase transactions of all available foreign currencies. Excludes travel money card home delivery orders and online reloads. Exchange rates may vary depending on whether you buy instore, online or by phone. You need to tell us your Nectar card number at the time of your transaction.
**You can order currency for a secure home delivery by 1pm on the day of your choice by Royal Mail (Mon- Sat). For currencies that we offer next day delivery, your order needs to be confirmed before 2pm (Mon- Fri). Please note that whilst Royal Mail make every effort to delivery on schedule, we cannot guarantee this as it is beyond our control. Highlands and Islands (including Channel Islands) are not guaranteed next day delivery. Delivery is free on all cash orders £400 or more (£4.99 for orders between £100 and £399.99). The minimum order for home delivery is £100. The delivery day quoted is dependent on the order day being a working day; if one of those days is a public holiday then additional day(s) will be added accordingly. All home delivery orders are sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery, unless we advise you otherwise, to your billing address, and a signature will be required upon delivery. A valid telephone number is required for home delivery.
Sainsbury's Bank Travel Money Card™ is issued by PrePay Technologies Limited pursuant to license by Mastercard International. PrePay Technologies Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (FRN: 900010) for the issuing of electronic money and payment instruments. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.