Money & payments

Money & payments in United Arab Emirates — what locals actually use

Apps, local services, useful places and traveler tips — the practical answer, in one place.Banking and money apps

12 picksUpdated May 4, 2026

Quick answer

Cards work in most places in United Arab Emirates, but check which local wallet and contactless method are actually accepted before you arrive. Always carry a small amount of cash as backup.

See trusted providers Compare tools Watch tips Ask a follow-up

Refine

12 picks

Tools locals use

Apps, websites and services we've vetted for money & payments in United Arab Emirates.

Tools locals use

12 picks

12 results

App

Emaar Pay

Rewards and payments app for Emaar Malls and other Emaar properties.

Official site

Wise (formerly TransferWise)

A global technology company that facilitates international money transfers and offers insights on corporate taxation for international expansion in Belgium.

App

PayBy

A new fintech company, provides a mobile payment solution.

App

ADCB Pay

ADCB Pay is a mobile payment app offered by Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB). It enables ADCB customers to make secure and instant payments using their smartphones. It supports NFC payments and QR code payments.

App

Revolut

Revolut, primarily a financial super app, also offers eSIM plans for prepaid data in Mozambique and other countries, integrated within its banking services.

App

PayPal

A widely used online payment system for secure purchases and sending money.

App

Dubai Now

Government of Dubai's integrated platform for over 100 smart services from more than 30 government and private entities.

App

Western Union

Another major global player for international money transfers, offering services for sending and receiving funds.

App

Al Ansari Exchange

Al Ansari Exchange is a leading exchange company in the UAE. Their app provides services like money transfers, bill payments, and currency exchange. It is widely used by residents for remittances.

4.7(64k)

XE Money Transfer

International money transfers and currency conversion.

App

etisalat Wallet

etisalat Wallet is a mobile wallet service from Etisalat, a major telecommunications provider in the UAE. It allows users to make payments, send money, and recharge their mobile balance.

App

Remitly

An online remittance service specializing in secure and fast international money transfers, with options for bank deposit or cash pickup in Angola.

More in United Arab Emirates

See all categories

Some links may be affiliate or partner links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Refine

Tools locals use

Emaar Pay

Wise (formerly TransferWise)

PayBy

ADCB Pay

Revolut

PayPal

Dubai Now

Western Union

Al Ansari Exchange

XE Money Transfer

etisalat Wallet

Remitly

More in United Arab Emirates

People also asked