UAE 1000 Dirhams Polymer Banknote (Issued 2022) Exchange for Cash in the UK

UAE 1000 Dirhams Polymer Banknote – Detailed Design, Innovation and Exchange Guide

The UAE 1000 Dirhams Polymer Banknote was introduced in 2022 by the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates as part of its advanced polymer currency series. As the highest denomination in regular circulation, the note celebrates the UAE’s achievements in leadership, space exploration, scientific innovation and advanced energy technology.

Predominantly brown and gold in colour, the banknote combines sophisticated security technology with imagery representing both the country’s vision for the future and its commitment to sustainable development. Printed on a durable polymer substrate, it remains legal tender throughout the United Arab Emirates.

Can UAE 1000 Dirham polymer banknotes be exchanged?

Yes. The UAE Dirham remains the official currency of the United Arab Emirates. Although most UK banks do not exchange UAE banknotes, they can be exchanged through specialist foreign currency exchange services such as Webuyallcurrency.com.

Key information

Front of the banknote

The front of the banknote focuses on the UAE’s leadership in innovation and future technologies.

At the centre is a detailed portrait of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, shown seated and engaged in thoughtful study. The portrait conveys the vision and leadership associated with the founding of the modern UAE.

Behind Sheikh Zayed appear symbols representing scientific progress and technological achievement. Most prominent is a detailed depiction of a space launch vehicle, reflecting the UAE’s growing role in space exploration and advanced research.

The design also incorporates imagery linked to future industries, innovation and national development strategies.

To the right is a circular transparent polymer security window containing a portrait of Sheikh Zayed integrated into the substrate itself.

On the left side, a large transparent security feature contains a detailed image of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum within a highly advanced anti-counterfeiting panel.

Additional front features include:

• Arabic denomination text reading “ألف درهم” (One Thousand Dirhams).
• Arabic text identifying the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates.
• Emirates national branding.
• Vertical red serial number.
• Colour-shifting security elements.
• Advanced polymer security windows.

Reverse of the banknote

The reverse celebrates one of the UAE’s most important achievements in peaceful nuclear energy generation.

The dominant feature is a highly detailed engraving of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, the UAE’s first nuclear power facility.

The design shows multiple reactor buildings and associated infrastructure stretching across the centre of the note. The domed reactor containment structures are engraved with remarkable precision, creating a highly realistic representation of the facility.

The Barakah plant represents a major milestone in the UAE’s strategy to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels.

To the right appears a large transparent polymer security window featuring an astronaut figure. The astronaut is positioned against a background of digital-style numerical patterns, linking the themes of science, technology and space exploration that appear throughout the note.

The reverse also includes:

• “CENTRAL BANK OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES”.
• “ONE THOUSAND DIRHAMS”.
• The year “2022”.
• Advanced microprinted security elements.
• Fine guilloche patterns and intricate anti-counterfeiting designs.

Polymer security features

The UAE 1000 Dirhams note incorporates some of the most advanced security features currently used on world banknotes, including:

• Large transparent polymer windows.
• Portrait security features.
• Embedded astronaut security device.
• Colour-shifting inks.
• Raised tactile printing.
• Microtext security elements.
• Transparent denomination features.
• Advanced anti-counterfeiting technology.

These features significantly improve both durability and security compared with traditional paper currency.

The significance of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant

The Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant is one of the most important infrastructure projects in the history of the UAE.

Located in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, it became the first operational nuclear power station in the Arab world. The facility contributes significantly to electricity generation while supporting the UAE’s long-term sustainability goals.

Its appearance on the banknote highlights the country’s investment in science, engineering and clean energy technologies.

Why an astronaut appears in the security window

The astronaut motif reflects the UAE’s ambitions in space exploration.

In recent years, the UAE has launched astronauts into space, developed satellite programmes and undertaken ambitious scientific missions, including exploration of Mars.

The astronaut security feature symbolises the nation’s commitment to innovation, research and future generations.

Why polymer banknotes are used

Polymer banknotes offer numerous advantages over traditional paper currency:

• Greater durability.
• Improved resistance to moisture and wear.
• Enhanced anti-counterfeiting protection.
• Longer circulation life.
• Reduced replacement costs.
• Better long-term environmental performance.

The UAE’s polymer banknote programme reflects its wider commitment to technological advancement and modernisation.

Why UK banks do not accept UAE banknotes

Most UK banks do not exchange UAE currency directly. As a result, travellers returning from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates often require specialist services to exchange their remaining dirhams.

How to exchange UAE 1000 Dirham 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 currency securely for processing.

Frequently asked questions

Is the UAE 1000 Dirhams polymer note still legal tender?

Yes. It remains part of the current UAE currency series.

What facility appears on the reverse?

The reverse depicts the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in Abu Dhabi.

Why is there an astronaut in the security window?

The astronaut symbolises the UAE’s achievements and ambitions in space exploration and scientific research.

What makes this note different from earlier UAE 1000 Dirham notes?

It is produced on advanced polymer substrate and incorporates significantly enhanced security technology.

Can I exchange UAE banknotes in the UK?

Most UK banks do not exchange UAE currency, but specialist services such as Webuyallcurrency.com can process them.

Exchange your UAE banknotes

If you have UAE 1000 Dirhams polymer banknotes from a holiday, business trip or overseas travel, Webuyallcurrency.com provides a secure and straightforward way to exchange foreign banknotes and coins and convert unused UAE currency into a convenient payment.