Table of contents
Quick answer
The currency is the UAE dirham (AED), pegged to the US dollar. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but carry some cash for taxis, souks and tips. ATMs are everywhere; tipping is customary but modest at around 10%; VAT is 5% and tourists can reclaim it on eligible shopping at the airport.
The dirham and exchange
The UAE dirham (AED) is divided into 100 fils and is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of about 3.67 to the dollar, so it barely moves against the greenback. Exchange rates at the airport are worse than in the city; exchange houses in the malls and Deira offer better rates than hotels.
Cash versus card
Cards, including contactless and mobile payments, are accepted almost everywhere — malls, restaurants, most taxis and attractions. Carry some cash for the souks, smaller cafeterias, tips and the occasional taxi that prefers it. ATMs are plentiful; tell your bank you're travelling and check foreign-transaction fees.
Tipping customs
- Restaurants: a service charge is sometimes included; if not, around 10% is normal.
- Taxis: round up the fare.
- Hotel porters and housekeeping, valet, and tour or safari guides: a small note (a few dirhams) is appreciated.
VAT and the tourist refund
VAT is 5%, included in most displayed prices. Tourists can reclaim VAT on eligible purchases from participating retailers — ask for a tax-free tag at the shop and claim the refund at the airport before you fly. There's a minimum spend and a small processing fee.
Keep the tax-free tags and receipts together and leave a little extra time at the airport if you plan to claim a VAT refund.
Roughly what a trip costs
Dubai can be done on a range of budgets. Excluding the hotel, budget travellers manage on roughly AED 250–400 a day and mid-range on AED 500–900, with attractions, desert trips and boat charters the main swing cost. When you go and where you eat move the total more than anything else.
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Dubai?
The UAE dirham (AED), divided into 100 fils. It's pegged to the US dollar at about 3.67 to the dollar, so it's very stable against it.
Should I use cash or card in Dubai?
Cards, including contactless, are accepted almost everywhere. Carry some cash for souks, smaller cafeterias, tips and the occasional taxi. ATMs are plentiful.
How much should I tip in Dubai?
Tipping is customary but modest — around 10% in restaurants if service isn't included, rounding up taxi fares, and a few dirhams for porters, housekeeping and guides.
Can tourists claim a VAT refund in Dubai?
Yes — VAT is 5%, and tourists can reclaim it on eligible purchases from participating retailers. Ask for a tax-free tag in the shop and claim at the airport before flying. A minimum spend and a small fee apply.
How much money do I need per day in Dubai?
Excluding the hotel, roughly AED 250–400 a day for budget travellers and AED 500–900 for mid-range, with attractions and desert or boat trips the main variable.
Written by the TripReview team from our own price benchmarks and the rules published by UAE authorities, and updated 29 September 2026. Figures are ranges, not quotes — check the latest rules with the official source before you travel. How we rate companies
