What Is Rupee Called in Dubai?
If you are planning a trip to Dubai, you might be wondering what the local currency is called. While the official currency of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the UAE dirham (AED), it’s worth noting that India also has a significant presence in Dubai due to a large number of Indian expatriates living and working there.
As a result, you might come across a term called “Rupee” while in Dubai, but it’s not the same as the Indian Rupee (INR).
UAE Dirham (AED)
The UAE dirham (AED) is the official currency of Dubai and is widely accepted throughout the city. It is abbreviated as AED and is often represented by the symbol “د.إ” or “Dhs”.
The dirham is further divided into 100 fils, with coins available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 fils, and banknotes available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 dirhams.
Rupee – A Term Used Informally
While in Dubai, you might come across locals or businesses referring to dirhams as “Rupees.” However, it’s important to note that this term is used informally and doesn’t reflect an actual currency exchange with Indian Rupees (INR).
It primarily stems from the significant presence of Indian expatriates in Dubai who use their native terminology when discussing money.
So if someone tells you something costs “10 rupees” in Dubai, they are actually referring to it costing you 10 UAE dirhams. It’s crucial to understand this distinction to avoid any confusion when dealing with local currency.
Exchanging Currency
If you are traveling to Dubai, it’s advisable to exchange your currency for UAE dirhams before your trip. Most major airports and banks have currency exchange services where you can convert your money into dirhams.
Additionally, Dubai has numerous currency exchange shops and ATMs where you can withdraw local currency using your debit or credit card.
Tips for Handling Currency in Dubai
- Carry some cash in small denominations for smaller expenses such as taxis or street vendors who might not accept cards.
- Keep track of the current exchange rates to ensure you are getting a fair deal when exchanging money.
- Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels as they tend to offer lower rates compared to banks or dedicated currency exchange shops.
- Notify your bank about your travel plans to prevent any issues with using your cards in a foreign country.
In conclusion, while the official currency of Dubai is the UAE dirham (AED), it is not uncommon to hear locals referring to dirhams as “Rupees” due to the significant Indian expatriate population. However, it’s important to understand that this term is used informally and doesn’t imply an actual exchange rate with the Indian Rupee (INR).
When visiting Dubai, make sure to familiarize yourself with the official currency and consider exchanging some cash for convenience during your trip.