The currency of the United Arab Emirates is the dirham, abbreviated to AED or Dhs.  The dirham is divided into 100 fils and coins are in 1 dirham,  50 and 25 fils.  Notes are in denominations of AED 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000.

The dirham is pegged to the US $, at a rate of $1 = AED 3.6727.  This means the dirham is susceptible to the fluctuations of the dollar.

When changing money in United Arab Emirates the best rates are obtained from banks and exchange shops, most shopping malls have exchange shops and banks located within them.  When possible you should avoid changing money at hotels as generally the offer the lowest rates.  Most major airports have banking facilities and many are open 24 hours a day, although the rates are usually less favourable at these outlets.

It is always useful to arrive with a small amount of local currency for taxis and tips, but dollars are usually accepted.  It's also worth knowing that some shops don't give exact change and generally round off to the nearest 25 fils.

Current dirham exchange rates as of 30th January 2008:-

£ = 7.3526

$ = 3.6780

€ = 5.4922