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Impact of UAE New Dirham Symbol on Businesses, Travelers, and Shoppers

The new symbol of Dirham has officially been revealed — and it’s more than just a design upgrade. The new United Arab Emirates Dirham symbol aims to elevate the UAE’s financial identity, aligning it with global currencies like the dollar ($), euro (€), pound (£), and yen (¥). 

As the Dirham symbol currency rolls out, expect to see it in everything from shopping receipts and flight tickets to online banking apps. This marks a significant leap forward for the Emirates in asserting its digital and economic presence.

Key Takeaways:

  1. New Symbol Introduced: The UAE unveiled a new official currency symbol for the Dirham — a blend of Arabic “د” and Latin “D”.
  2. Global Alignment: The symbol places the Dirham alongside global currencies like $, €, £, and ¥.
  3. Wide Adoption Expected: It will appear in receipts, banking apps, e-commerce, and official documents.
  4. Guidelines Issued: The Central Bank released usage rules covering placement, font, spacing, and design consistency.
  5. Digital Integration: The symbol will be included in software, keyboards, and POS systems.
  6. Cultural Identity: The design reflects UAE heritage while supporting modern financial practices.
  7. Cash Unchanged: The new symbol doesn’t affect existing banknotes or coins.

What Is the New Dirham Symbol? 

It features the Arabic letter “د” (Dal) merged with the Latin character “D”- a nod to the word Dirham in both Arabic and English, the new United Arab Emirates Dirham symbol is a modern, stylized character that reflects the nation’s culture and ambition. It replaces the traditional “د.إ” in both local and international financial systems. 

With the new Dirham symbol currency, the UAE joins other nations in giving its currency a simple, iconic representation — enhancing usability across platforms. 

You’ll now start seeing the AED symbol in: 

  • Travel bookings 
  • E-commerce sites 
  • Bank statements 
  • Government portals 
  • International currency listings 

UAE Dirham Currency Images

UAE Dirham Currency Images

Why the UAE Introduced a New AED Currency Symbol 

The AED currency symbol is not just a visual improvement; it’s a strategic move. 

Benefits of the new Dirham symbol currency: 

  • Global Recognition: Just as USD uses $, the AED currency symbol helps solidify the Dirham on the world financial map. 
  • Modern Design: The symbol blends tradition with clean, modern aesthetics. 
  • Digital Compatibility: The AED symbol will be embedded in keyboards, operating systems, and digital interfaces. 
  • Unified Branding: The United Arab Emirates Dirham symbol promotes consistency across media and platforms.

New UAE Dirham Symbol Guidelines

To ensure consistent usage across all platforms, the UAE Central Bank has issued official New UAE Dirham Symbol guidelines. These are meant to help designers, businesses, developers, and publishers implement the symbol correctly in both print and digital formats.

Key Usage Guidelines

  • Symbol Placement: The new Dirham symbol should appear before the amount, with a space (e.g., ؋ 250).
  • Font Compatibility: The symbol is designed to be easily integrated into modern digital fonts and will be added to Unicode standards for global accessibility.
  • Scaling and Proportion: Maintain the symbol’s aspect ratio when resizing. Do not distort, rotate, or modify the original design.
  • Color and Background: Use the symbol in solid black or white for clarity. On branded materials, use versions that maintain strong contrast.
  • Digital Use: The symbol must be embedded into POS systems, websites, banking apps, and e-commerce platforms.
  • Print Use: Apply the symbol to receipts, menus, invoices, reports, and financial documents where AED amounts are displayed.

What to Avoid?

  • Don’t use outdated abbreviations like “د.إ” in new content once the symbol is adopted.
  • Don’t modify or redesign the symbol.
  • Avoid using the symbol in non-financial contexts or as a graphic decoration.

Where You’ll See the AED Symbol as a Traveler or Resident 

From everyday purchases to international transactions, the new AED currency symbol will be impossible to miss: 

  • Flight Tickets & Bookings: Your fares may show the UAE Dirham currency symbol instead of “AED.” 
  • Hotel Receipts: Look for the new Dirham symbol currency on your invoices. 
  • Shopping & Dining: Menus, price tags, and e-commerce checkouts will include the new symbol of AED currency. 
  • Currency Exchange Counters: The new UAE Dirham symbol will appear at forex desks in malls and airports. 

Whether you’re a UAE resident or just visiting, the Dirham symbol currency is here to streamline and simplify your financial experience. 

Quick Facts About the UAE Dirham Symbol 

  • Currency Code: AED 
  • Subunit: 1 Dirham = 100 fils 
  • Used in: All seven Emirates 
  • Now represented by: The new United Arab Emirates Dirham symbol 

Digital Rollout of the UAE Dirham Symbol 

The UAE Central Bank is working with major tech platforms to include the new AED currency symbol on: 

  • Microsoft Office & Google Workspace 
  • iOS & Android keyboards 
  • Point-of-sale (POS) systems 
  • Travel and e-commerce apps 

You’ll soon see the symbol of AED right on your devices, making payments and financial communication much more seamless. 

What This Means for UAE’s Global Financial Presence 

The rollout of the United Arab Emirates Dirham symbol reflects the country’s vision to: 

  • Modernize communication 
  • Strengthen national identity 
  • Boost financial clarity in international markets 

Whether you’re checking your bank account or shopping online, the consistent presence of the Dirham symbol currency will make it easier to identify AED transactions instantly. 

FAQs about UAE New Dirham Symbol

Will the new Dirham symbol affect cash? 

No. The change is symbolic and digital only. Cash remains the same. 

Where can I find the new AED symbol? 

On most major platforms, operating systems, and soon — travel documents, websites, and apps. 

Why was the United Arab Emirates Dirham symbol created? 

To modernize the currency’s look and improve clarity and recognition both locally and internationally.

Is the symbol of AED currency replacing AED in writing? 

Yes, gradually. The symbol of AED currency will start appearing in place of the abbreviation “AED” across platforms such as receipts, websites, financial documents, and digital apps. 

Where will I commonly see the UAE Dirham currency symbol? 

You’ll notice the UAE Dirham currency symbol on price tags, banking apps, flight tickets, hotel invoices, and e-commerce platforms. It’s being introduced to make Dirham prices clearer and more recognizable at a glance. 

Do I need to exchange my notes because of the new symbol of AED currency? 

No, your current Dirham notes remain valid. The symbol of AED currency only changes how the currency is displayed in print and digital formats, not the physical currency itself. 

Why is the UAE introducing the UAE Dirham currency symbol now? 

The goal is to strengthen global recognition, modernize the national currency’s branding, and support digital transformation. The UAE Dirham currency symbol reflects the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to finance and innovation. 

Will international travelers be affected by the symbol of AED currency? 

Not in terms of currency value, but yes in how prices and charges are displayed. Travelers booking flights or shopping online will start seeing the symbol of AED currency used instead of traditional abbreviations. 

Does dirham have a symbol?

Yes, the UAE Dirham now has an official currency symbol: ؋ (stylized Arabic character resembling “D”), which represents the AED in both Arabic and English contexts. It was introduced to elevate the UAE’s monetary identity globally.

Is it Dhs or AED?

Both Dhs and AED refer to the UAE Dirham, but AED (Arab Emirates Dirham) is the official ISO currency code used in financial systems, banks, and international transactions. “Dhs” is more commonly seen in everyday informal use.

What is the new AED symbol?

The new AED symbol is ؋, a custom-designed character inspired by Arabic calligraphy. It represents the UAE Dirham and is intended for use in digital and printed materials such as invoices, receipts, and price tags.

How to write AED?

AED is written in all capital letters and placed before or after the amount, like: AED 100 or 100 AED. The official currency symbol (؋) may replace “AED” in some contexts.

How to use AED symbol?

The new symbol ؋ can be used in place of “AED” in pricing, receipts, and banking apps. It should be placed before the amount, for example: ؋100. It is gradually being adopted across digital platforms and printed formats.

How is UAE dirham written?

The UAE Dirham is formally written as AED (Arab Emirates Dirham). In informal settings, it may appear as Dhs. With the new symbol, it may be written as ؋100.

How do you mention dirhams?

Dirhams are typically mentioned as AED 50, Dhs 50, or using the new symbol like ؋50, depending on the context and formality.

What is the dirham written as?

The Dirham is written as AED in financial contexts, Dhs in informal contexts, and increasingly with the new symbol ؋ for modern branding and clarity.

How is dirham represented?

The Dirham is represented in three main ways:
AED (official ISO code)
Dhs (common informal abbreviation)
– (new official currency symbol)

Disclaimer: This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional or legal advice. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding completeness or applicability. mazeed, its members, employees, and agents do not accept or assume any liability, responsibility, or duty of care for any actions taken or decisions made based on this content. For official guidance, please refer to the UAE Ministry of Finance and the Federal Tax Authority

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mazeed Business Team

mazeed Business Team is a group of highly experienced business and financial experts dedicated to helping businesses thrive in the UAE. With a deep understanding of local regulations and market dynamics, we provide tailored solutions to navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

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