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Dubai Airport accepts payment in 15 foreign currencies, including British pounds, at duty-free. However, you will get a less favourable exchange rate than if you paid in the local currency, Dirham. It is recommended to use a credit or debit card and choose to pay in Dirham to get the best exchange rate. ATMs in the UAE typically provide the best exchange rates, and credit cards, currency cards, and traveller's cheques are widely accepted.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you use Pound Sterling at Dubai Airport? | Yes, Dubai Duty Free accepts payment in British Pounds and 14 other foreign currencies. |
| Where can you use Pound Sterling at Dubai Airport? | Duty-free shops, cafes, restaurants and shops at the airport. |
| Is it better to use Pound Sterling or a payment card? | Payment cards are recommended as you will get a better exchange rate. |
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What You'll Learn
Dubai Airport Accepts Multiple Currencies
Dubai Duty-Free, located in the airport, accepts payments in US dollars and several other foreign currencies. These include the British pound, Indian rupee, euro, Kuwaiti dinar, Singapore dollar, Qatari riyal, Saudi riyal, Omani rial, Bahraini dinar, Hong Kong dollar, Canadian dollar, Australian dollar, Swiss franc, Malaysian ringgit, Chinese yuan, and Israeli shekel. This wide range of accepted currencies ensures that travellers from various countries can conveniently make purchases without needing to exchange currency.
It is worth noting that while using foreign currency is possible, the exchange rate may not be as favourable as when using a credit or debit card and choosing to pay in Dirhams. Travellers are generally advised to use their cards for payments, just as they would in any other international airport. This option often provides a better exchange rate and avoids the hassle of carrying large amounts of cash. Additionally, credit cards, currency cards, and traveller's cheques are widely accepted in the United Arab Emirates, making them a safe and convenient choice for travellers.
For those who prefer to use cash, foreign currency can be exchanged at licensed money exchange centres in the UAE, which are typically found at airports, malls, and public markets. Foreign banks also have branches in the UAE, with ATMs located in various public places, providing easy access to local currency. However, it is recommended to use traveller's cheques in US Dollars or UK Pounds Sterling to avoid additional exchange rate charges.
Overall, Dubai Airport's acceptance of multiple currencies, including the British pound, offers flexibility and convenience to travellers. While using cards is generally recommended for better exchange rates, the availability of foreign currency exchange services ensures that visitors can choose the option that best suits their needs and preferences.
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Sterling or UK Dollars Accepted, but Poor Exchange Rate
Dubai Airport does accept sterling, along with a host of other foreign currencies. However, it is important to note that you will get a poor exchange rate. It is recommended that you use a credit or debit card and choose to pay in Dirhams, as this will give you a better exchange rate.
If you do choose to use sterling, you will receive your change in Dirhams. It is worth noting that foreign exchange desks at the airport will also likely offer poor exchange rates, so it is best to use your card. ATMs typically provide the best exchange rates, so if you do need cash, it is better to withdraw Dirhams directly.
If you are travelling outside of the airport in Dubai, you can also use sterling in some places, such as large shopping centres, hotels, and some restaurants. However, this is not common, and you will likely get an unfavourable exchange rate. It is always best to use Dirhams when possible.
Additionally, if you are planning to exchange money, it is recommended to do so at a licensed money exchange centre or a foreign bank branch in the UAE, as these will provide better rates than exchanging at the airport or with foreign currency outside of the country.
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Credit Cards Widely Accepted
While it is possible to use pound sterling at Dubai Airport, it is not recommended as you will not get a good exchange rate. Instead, it is better to use a credit or debit card and choose to pay in Dirham, which will give you the best exchange rate.
Credit cards are widely accepted at Dubai Airport, and there are also many benefits to using a credit card when travelling. Credit cards are a safe and convenient way to pay for purchases, and many cards offer rewards and benefits such as airport lounge access, cashback, or travel insurance.
When using a credit card at Dubai Airport, it is important to remember to choose to pay in Dirham to get the best exchange rate. Additionally, some credit cards may offer better exchange rates or have lower foreign transaction fees than others, so it is worth comparing cards before travelling.
Dubai Islamic Bank, for example, offers complimentary airport lounge access to its Visa cardholders. To utilize this benefit, cardholders must download the Visa Airport Companion App and register their card. This app provides access to 1,200 airport lounges globally and is a fully digital and app-based experience. Similarly, Citibank offers a range of credit cards with airport lounge access, such as the Citi Ultima Mastercard, which provides access to over 1,200 lounges via the MasterCard Travel Pass app.
Credit cards can be used for various purchases at Dubai Airport, including duty-free shopping, dining, and entertainment. By using a credit card instead of cash, travellers can also easily track their spending and manage their budget. Additionally, many credit cards offer purchase protection, which can provide added peace of mind when making large purchases while travelling.
In conclusion, while pound sterling may be accepted at Dubai Airport, using a credit card is a more convenient and cost-effective option. Credit cards are widely accepted, and cardholders can benefit from rewards and benefits that can enhance their travel experience. By choosing to pay in Dirham and comparing card features, travellers can make the most of their credit cards and ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
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ATMs Provide Best Exchange Rates
Dubai International Airport Terminal 2 provides currency exchange counters where you can exchange your currency for Dirhams (AED) and vice versa. Most major currencies, such as US Dollars, British Pounds, Euros, and Japanese Yen, are readily available at these counters. However, if you need to exchange money, it is recommended to use an ATM as they provide the best exchange rates.
ATMs at Dubai International Airport Terminal 2 provide convenient access to cash. They are usually compatible with most international credit and debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. This allows travellers to access their funds with ease. These ATMs are strategically placed throughout the terminal, ensuring accessibility for all travellers. You can find them in key areas such as the arrivals hall, the departure lounge, near the gates, and around the check-in counters.
Using an ATM to withdraw local currency can be more convenient and provide a better exchange rate than exchanging cash at a currency exchange counter. This is especially true if you don't want to carry a lot of cash with you. By using your international card to withdraw cash from an ATM, you can often get a better exchange rate, depending on the fees charged by your home bank. It is important to check with your bank about any fees associated with international ATM withdrawals before your trip. In many cases, making fewer large withdrawals is more economical than making several smaller ones.
ATMs in Dubai are user-friendly and offer multi-language support, making them accessible for international travellers. They are also easily accessible, with ATMs available throughout the city in malls, supermarkets, and near tourist attractions. No matter what time of day it is, you can withdraw cash when needed. By using an ATM, you can get your cash in Dirhams without visiting an exchange house or currency exchange counter. This is particularly useful if you prefer not to carry large amounts of foreign currency and would rather withdraw cash as needed.
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Traveller's Cheques Avoid Extra Charges
Although debit and credit cards have made traveller's cheques largely obsolete, they are still a viable option for travellers who wish to avoid extra charges. Traveller's cheques are a safe and secure way to carry money as they can be refunded if lost or stolen, and they have no expiration date. They are also not linked to your bank account or personal line of credit, eliminating the risk of identity theft.
When purchasing traveller's cheques, you may be charged a fee of 1% to 3% of the total purchase amount. However, you can avoid this fee by using a debit or credit card instead. Traveller's cheques can be purchased from financial institutions such as banks and credit unions, and they are available in a range of currencies. It is recommended to notify your bank and credit card issuer about your travel plans to prevent potential fraud flags and subsequent blocks on your accounts.
Traveller's cheques can be redeemed in several ways. They can be redeemed directly with the issuer, such as American Express, or at eligible foreign exchange partners or merchant locations. Some banks may also allow account holders to deposit traveller's cheques, although fees may apply. It is important to carry the original cheque purchase receipt and a form of photo identification when travelling with traveller's cheques. Additionally, the acceptor must observe the customer signing the cheque and may require additional identification.
Traveller's cheques can also be converted into cash, which can then be deposited into a bank account. Hotels may cash traveller's cheques with no charge, and any remaining amount can be returned to the customer's bank account. Traveller's cheques are a good option for those visiting remote or unstable countries with unreliable card services or limited ATM access. They are also useful for those who wish to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or are concerned about card fraud or identity theft.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Dubai Duty Free accepts payment in British pounds and 14 other currencies from around the world. You can also use pounds at cafes, restaurants and shops at the airport.
In addition to the UAE dirham, the following currencies are also accepted: US dollars, euros, Kuwaiti dinar, Singapore dollar, Qatari riyal, Saudi riyal, Omani rial, Bahraini dinar, Hong Kong dollar, Canadian dollar, Australian dollar, Swiss franc, Malaysian ringgit, Chinese yuan, and Indian rupee.
While you can pay with cash in various currencies, it is recommended to use a credit or debit card and choose to pay in the local currency, Dirham, to get the best exchange rate.
You can exchange money in hotels and at any of the licensed money exchange centres in the UAE, which are located at airports, in malls and in public markets.
