UAE 1 Dirhams Banknote (Issued 1973) Exchange for Cash Today

UAE 1 Dirham Banknote (Issued 1973) – Design, History and Exchange Guide

The UAE 1 Dirham banknote issued in 1973 was among the first banknotes produced following the establishment of the United Arab Emirates. Issued by the United Arab Emirates Currency Board, this historic note formed part of the country’s first national currency series and represents an important milestone in the development of the UAE’s modern financial system.

Predominantly green and light blue in colour, the note reflects the heritage, economy and aspirations of the young federation. Today, these early banknotes are no longer found in everyday circulation but remain an important part of UAE monetary history.

If you have old UAE banknotes, Webuyallcurrency.com provides a straightforward way to exchange eligible foreign banknotes.

Can UAE 1 Dirham banknotes be exchanged?

Yes. Older UAE banknotes may still be exchangeable depending on their status and condition. Specialist foreign currency exchange services are often the easiest way to convert historic UAE banknotes into pounds sterling.

Key information

Front of the banknote

The front design combines traditional symbols associated with the UAE’s heritage and economy.

Within the central vignette appears a traditional dhow sailing vessel, reflecting the importance of maritime trade, fishing and pearl diving to the region’s history. Beneath the vessel are depictions of camels crossing the desert, symbolising traditional transport and Bedouin life before the modern era.

Also featured are a palm tree and an oil derrick, representing two of the foundations of the UAE’s development. The palm tree reflects agricultural traditions and oasis settlements, while the oil rig acknowledges the growing importance of the petroleum industry during the early years of the federation.

Arabic inscriptions dominate the design, including the denomination “One Dirham” and the issuing authority.

Decorative geometric patterns frame the note, creating a design style typical of many Middle Eastern banknotes from the period.

Reverse of the banknote

The reverse features a more modern theme that reflects the rapid development taking place across the newly formed UAE.

At the centre appears a government or civic building, illustrating the growth of national institutions following unification. Architectural details are rendered in fine engraved lines, showcasing the security printing techniques of the era.

To the right stands a prominent clock tower structure, one of the most recognisable symbols of urban development in the Emirates during the 1970s.

A stylised falcon appears on the left side of the design. Falcons hold a special place in Emirati culture and are closely associated with traditional falconry, a practice that remains important throughout the Gulf region.

English text across the top identifies the issuing authority as the “United Arab Emirates Currency Board”, while the denomination “One Dirham” appears prominently at the bottom.

The significance of the 1973 series

The UAE Dirham officially replaced earlier currencies used throughout the Emirates shortly after the federation was established.

The 1973 banknote series represented one of the first unified currency issues for the nation and helped establish a common monetary identity across the emirates.

The imagery chosen for the note combines traditional desert life, maritime heritage, agriculture, oil production and modern state institutions, effectively telling the story of a nation transitioning from its historical roots into a modern economy.

Design symbolism

Several important themes are represented on the note:

• Dhow boat – maritime trade and pearl diving heritage.
• Camels – traditional desert transportation and Bedouin culture.
• Palm tree – oasis agriculture and prosperity.
• Oil derrick – economic development through petroleum resources.
• Falcon – national heritage and traditional Emirati culture.
• Government buildings – the growth of the modern UAE state.

Together these elements create a snapshot of the country’s identity during the early years of federation.

Why UK banks do not accept old UAE banknotes

Most UK banks do not exchange historic foreign banknotes, particularly older withdrawn issues.

As a result, many people who discover older UAE currency in collections, inherited items or travel souvenirs often use specialist exchange services instead.

How to exchange UAE banknotes

1. Add your UAE banknotes to your account.
2. Enter the quantity you wish to exchange.
3. View your exchange value instantly.
4. Send your banknotes securely for processing.

Frequently asked questions

Who issued the UAE 1 Dirham banknote?

The note was issued by the United Arab Emirates Currency Board.

When was this banknote introduced?

The note was issued in 1973, shortly after the formation of the UAE.

What appears on the front of the note?

The front features a dhow, camels, a palm tree and an oil derrick.

What appears on the reverse?

The reverse shows civic architecture, a clock tower and a falcon.

Can old UAE banknotes still be exchanged?

Many historic UAE banknotes can still be exchanged through specialist currency exchange providers.

Exchange your UAE banknotes

If you have old UAE 1 Dirham banknotes issued in 1973, Webuyallcurrency.com offers a simple way to exchange old foreign notes and convert eligible historic UAE currency into a convenient payment.