
Abu Dhabi Airport is a popular travel hub with currency exchange services, including world travel exchange bodies, banks, and local UAE agents. While Australian dollars are not accepted as a form of payment in the UAE, travellers passing through Abu Dhabi Airport can exchange Australian dollars for UAE dirhams at the airport. Currency exchange services at the airport are known for offering poor rates, so travellers are advised to exchange their money ahead of time or use a credit or debit card during their stay.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency used in Abu Dhabi | UAE Dirham |
| Australian dollars in Abu Dhabi airport | Not accepted as a currency |
| Best way to pay in Abu Dhabi airport | Credit/debit card |
| Currency exchange in Abu Dhabi airport | Available |
| Currency exchange rate in Abu Dhabi airport | Not good |
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What You'll Learn

Australian dollars are not accepted as a form of payment in Abu Dhabi
It is recommended to acquire the local currency before your trip. You can exchange your Australian dollars for UAE Dirhams at foreign exchange centres located at the airport, in malls, and public markets. There are also numerous ATMs available at the airport and across Abu Dhabi where you can withdraw UAE Dirhams.
It is worth noting that credit cards, currency cards, and traveller's cheques are widely accepted in the UAE. ATMs typically offer the best exchange rates, and you can use your card for purchases at most restaurants, malls, and hotels. However, it is advisable to notify your bank about your travels to avoid any issues with overseas transactions.
While tipping is not mandatory in the UAE, if you wish to do so, it is better to have UAE Dirhams. Some sources suggest that tipping in USD is acceptable, but it is generally more convenient to have the local currency. Overall, it is advisable to have UAE Dirhams when visiting Abu Dhabi, as Australian dollars are not a widely accepted form of payment.
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Abu Dhabi airport has currency exchange services
Abu Dhabi International Airport has currency exchange services available for travellers. ADIB, one of the leading banks in Abu Dhabi, provides banking transactions and currency exchange facilities at the airport. Additionally, there are numerous ATMs, money exchange services, and agents located throughout the airport where travellers can exchange their currency for UAE Dirham, the local currency.
While Abu Dhabi Airport accepts major currencies such as USD, GBP, and Euros at Duty-Free shops and restaurants, it is recommended to acquire local currency beforehand or utilise ATMs for better exchange rates. Exchange rates at airport stores and currency exchange counters are often unfavourable and expensive.
It is worth noting that Australian dollars are not accepted in the UAE, so it is advisable to exchange them before your trip or upon arrival at the airport. Some travellers suggest using a credit or debit card for purchases, as many outlets accept international cards, eliminating the need for currency exchange.
For those spending more time in Abu Dhabi, currency exchange services are also available outside the airport, often providing better rates than those found within the airport. These include banks, foreign exchange centres, and ATMs located in malls and public markets throughout the city.
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It is recommended to buy UAE Dirham before travelling to Abu Dhabi
Although Abu Dhabi Airport accepts major currencies such as USD, GBP, and Euros for duty-free purchases, it is recommended to buy UAE Dirham before travelling to Abu Dhabi. This is because the exchange rate at the airport is not favourable and you are unlikely to get change in your home currency.
There are several ways to buy UAE Dirham before your trip. One option is to buy it online and have it delivered or pick it up in-store. You can also purchase it from a bureau de change or at the airport before you depart. Buying your currency ahead of time will ensure you get a competitive deal and avoid the poor rates that bureau de change desks at airports are known for.
Additionally, having UAE Dirham before you arrive will make it easier to get around and make purchases once you land. While credit cards are widely accepted in the UAE, having local currency is essential for taxis and smaller purchases. ATMs are readily available at the airport and throughout Abu Dhabi, but it is important to notify your bank about your travels to avoid any issues with your card being frozen due to suspicious activity.
By following this recommendation and securing your UAE Dirham in advance, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable travel experience in Abu Dhabi without worrying about unfavourable exchange rates or limited purchasing options.
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Abu Dhabi airport has many ATMs
Australian dollars are not accepted as a form of currency in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The local currency in the UAE is the UAE Dirham, which is made up of a mixture of banknotes and coins. The best option is to exchange your Australian dollars for UAE Dirhams before your trip. You can do this by buying AED online, at a bureau de change, or at your home airport.
If you are unable to exchange your currency before your trip, there are several options available at Abu Dhabi airport. Abu Dhabi airport has many ATMs where you can withdraw UAE Dirhams. There are also foreign exchange services and agents, including world travel exchange bodies, banks, and local UAE agents. It is recommended that you reserve your currency exchange online and collect it at the airport, as this will help you get the best rate and avoid unnecessary fees.
In addition to currency exchange services, Abu Dhabi airport accepts major currencies such as USD, GBP, and Euros at Duty-Free shops. Credit cards, currency cards, and traveller's cheques are also widely accepted in the UAE. However, it is important to note that you may receive poor exchange rates at the airport, and it is generally recommended to avoid exchanging currency there. Instead, you can find better exchange rates at currency exchange places in the city or in malls.
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Credit cards are widely accepted in Abu Dhabi
Australian dollars are not accepted in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), so you will not be able to use them at Abu Dhabi Airport. The local currency in the UAE is the UAE Dirham, represented by the international code AED and the symbol د.إ. It is recommended to acquire the local currency before your trip. You can do this by buying AED online, from a bureau de change, or at your home airport.
ATMs are widely available in Abu Dhabi, including at the airport, inside and outside banks, at the Metro station, in shopping malls and supermarkets, and in hotels. Most ATMs accept a substantial number of both regional and international cards, although there is usually a fee for using an ATM operated by a bank other than your own. It is important to notify your bank about your travels, as purchases in the UAE may be considered suspicious activity and your card may be frozen.
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Frequently asked questions
Australian dollars are not accepted as a form of payment in Abu Dhabi or the UAE. The local currency is the UAE Dirham, which can be purchased at the airport.
Abu Dhabi airport has many currency exchange services and agents, including world travel exchange bodies, banks, and local UAE agents.
The local currency is the UAE Dirham. However, credit cards, currency cards, and traveller's cheques are widely accepted in the UAE.
The best currency to use is the UAE Dirham, as this is the local currency. However, if you are only at the airport for a short time, using a credit or debit card is a good option, as many outlets accept these.
Exchange rates vary, but it is recommended to avoid exchanging currency at the airport, as the rates are often poor. Instead, exchange your money before arriving at the airport or use a credit or debit card.











































