
Plan your trip to the UAE efficiently!
Travelling to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or elsewhere in the UAE? Maximise your experience by preparing your budget in advance with the local currency, the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in malls, hotels and restaurants, cash is still essential for taxis, souks, local cafés and smaller shops.
Secure the best AUD to AED exchange rate online with 0% commission before you fly.
Practical tips for budgeting your trip to the UAE
For travellers in the UAE, everyday expenses can vary depending on the city and lifestyle:
- Meals: Street food or casual dining starts from AED 20–40, while mid-range restaurants average AED 100–200 per person.
- Accommodation: Budget hotels or guesthouses can cost around AED 150–300 per night, while 4–5 star hotels in Dubai or Abu Dhabi range from AED 400–1000+.
- Transport: A metro ride in Dubai costs AED 3–7 depending on zones, taxis typically start at AED 12, and intercity buses range from AED 25–50.
Tip: Having AED in cash makes moving around easier, especially when using taxis, small eateries, or markets.

Good to know
Here are some typical prices in the UAE to help you plan your budget in AED.

AED 3 – 7
Metro single trip in Dubai

AED 20 – 30
A fresh juice or soft drink at a café

AED 60 – 70
Entry to the Louvre Abu Dhabi

AED 20 – 40
Local dishes at street markets (e.g. shawarma, falafel)

AED 12 – 25
Average fare for short rides in Dubai or Abu Dhabi

Attraction Free entry
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

Some suggestions for your stay
- Dubai: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Gold Souk, Jumeirah Beach.
- Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island.
- Sharjah: Cultural museums, Central Souk, Al Noor Mosque.
- Desert adventures: Safari tours, camel rides, and dune bashing.
- Shopping: Traditional souks and modern malls, where having AED cash helps you bargain or pay small vendors.
Some facts about the United Arab Emirates Dirham

Denominations of the AED
- Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000.
- Coins: 1 dirham, 50 fils, 25 fils.
The UAE Dirham (AED) has been the official currency since 1973, replacing the Qatari Riyal and Dubai Riyal. It is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of approximately 3.67 AED to 1 USD, which provides stability for travellers and businesses.
Travelling soon?
Here's how to easily reserve your currencies online
1. Choose your currency
Determine the amount of travel money you will need to enjoy your trip.
2. Choose a date & a pick-up location
Collect your order from one of our exchange bureaus at major airports and city centre.
3. Collect & pay
Pay upon pickup and enjoy
your trip.
FAQs about the UAE Dirham (AED)
Here are some of the most common questions travellers ask when exchanging AUD to AED.
Exchange rates fluctuate daily. Since the AED is pegged to the US Dollar, its value is relatively stable. Booking online allows you to lock in today’s AUD to AED rate.
The AED is pegged to the USD, making it a relatively strong and stable currency. Its strength compared to the AUD depends on Australia’s economic conditions and the current exchange rate.
It’s usually better to exchange before you travel. With Prosegur Change, you can secure the current rate online, enjoy 0% commission, and collect at the airport — avoiding higher rates in tourist areas in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
No, only the UAE Dirham is accepted for transactions. International currencies like AUD need to be exchanged before or during your trip.

Enjoy the best exchange rate for AUD to AED with Prosegur Change
Looking for the best way to exchange AUD to AED? With Prosegur Change, you can lock in today’s AUD to AED exchange rate, enjoy 0% commission, and conveniently collect your Dirhams at branches in major Australian airports and city centres.
We've got all your currency needs covered and our team is looking forward to serve you!