UAE Coins and Currency Symbols Guide: Fils, Dirham, History & More

From shopping at local souks to fine dining in Dubai, knowing your UAE coins and currency symbols can make everyday life easier. This guide explains how the dirham works, the meaning behind the new 2025 symbol, and what to know about fils, notes, and history.

• Overview of the UAE currency
• Dirham symbols and abbreviations
• History of UAE coins and currency
• Coin and banknote denominations
• Using and displaying UAE currency symbols
• Key takeaways
• FAQs

Overview of the UAE currency

Here’s what you need to know about the official currency of the United Arab Emirates.
The UAE’s official currency is the dirham (AED), introduced in 1973 to unify the country’s monetary system. One dirham equals 100 fils, the smaller subunit still visible on coins today. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, at a stable rate of 3.6725 AED per 1 USD, providing consistency for trade and investment.

Dirham symbols and abbreviations

Here’s how the UAE dirham is represented in writing and digital form.

The new dirham symbol 2025

In March 2025, the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) launched an official currency symbol for the dirham – a bold Latin “D” crossed by two horizontal lines, representing strength, unity, and progress. The design was inspired by the UAE flag and aims to give the dirham a recognisable identity alongside global currencies like the US dollar ($), euro (€), and British pound (£).

The new symbol should appear before the number (e.g., D̶ 50) and must not be combined with “AED.” While it doesn’t yet have a Unicode code point, it’s used in digital guidelines, press materials, and banking templates across the UAE.

Other abbreviations and forms

• Arabic abbreviation: د.إ (stands for dirham imarati)
• Romanised versions: Dh (singular), Dhs (plural), or DH
• ISO code: AED (used internationally in banking and forex)
• Subunit: fils (فلس), often shown in English as 25 fils or 50 fils

History of UAE coins and currency

Here’s how the UAE’s money evolved from regional systems to a national currency.

Before 1966, the Gulf Rupee, issued by India, was used across the Emirates. Following India’s rupee devaluation, most Emirates switched to the Qatar and Dubai Riyal, while Abu Dhabi adopted the Bahraini Dinar.

In 1973, the UAE Dirham was officially introduced as the national currency, marking a turning point for the country’s financial independence. The term dirham has roots in the Greek word drakhmé, reflecting ancient trade links across the Arabian Gulf.

In 2025, the UAE made another historic step with the launch of the new dirham currency symbol, reinforcing the nation’s vision of modernity and global presence. The UAE also became the first Arab central bank to join the FX Global Code, promoting transparency and international cooperation in currency trading.

Coin and banknote denominations

Here’s what’s currently in circulation across the UAE.

Coins: fils and dirham values

Commonly used coins include:

• 1 dirham (د.إ 1) – the most frequently used coin
• 50 fils – half a dirham
• 25 fils – quarter dirham

Lower denominations (1, 5, and 10 fils) technically exist but are rarely used, as most prices are rounded to the nearest 25 fils. Since 1976, the UAE has also issued commemorative coins marking events such as National Day, Expo 2020, and milestones in leadership.

Banknotes

Banknotes are issued by the Central Bank of the UAE, available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 AED.
Recent notes are printed on polymer for better durability and security. All notes include the UAE emblem watermark, along with tactile marks for the visually impaired.

Design and cultural symbolism of UAE coins and banknotes

Here’s what makes the UAE’s coins and banknotes distinctive beyond their face value.

The design of the UAE’s currency celebrates the nation’s journey — from its heritage and traditions to its modern achievements. Every coin and note carries symbols that reflect unity, progress, and national pride.

Common coin designs:

• 1 dirham (د.إ 1) – Features the traditional dallah coffee pot, symbolising Emirati hospitality and generosity.
  50 fils – Shows an oil derrick, representing the UAE’s economic transformation and rise as an energy hub.
  25 fils – Depicts a traditional dhow, honouring the country’s maritime heritage and trading history.

Banknote motifs:

Modern banknotes showcase national landmarks that link the past and present – from Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Creek to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi. Each design reinforces the UAE’s values of heritage, innovation, and unity.

Together, these artistic details turn every dirham into more than a currency – a reflection of the UAE’s story, proudly blending tradition with modernity.

Using and displaying UAE currency symbols

Here’s how to properly write and display UAE currency in 2025.

When writing prices, always place the symbol or “AED” before the amount (e.g., AED 50 or D̶ 50). Never use both together.

Additionally, businesses, media outlets, and financial institutions are encouraged by the Central Bank to adopt the new symbol for branding and uniformity. Comprehensive design and application packs are available through official CBUAE portals.

Key takeaways

The UAE dirham (AED) is divided into 100 fils and pegged to the US dollar for stability. A bold new dirham symbol introduced in 2025 modernises how the currency is represented internationally. Common coins include the 1 dirham, 50 fils, and 25 fils, while smaller denominations are mostly phased out. Since 1973, the dirham has reflected the UAE’s unity, economic strength, and global progress. Always use either the AED abbreviation or the new symbol – never both together.

FAQs

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