UAE 5 Dirhams Banknote (Issued 1973)

UAE 5 Dirhams Banknote (Issued 1973) – Design, History and Exchange Guide

The UAE 5 Dirhams banknote issued in 1973 formed part of the first currency series released following the creation of the United Arab Emirates. Issued by the United Arab Emirates Currency Board, this historic note represents one of the earliest national banknotes of the federation and reflects the country’s cultural heritage, traditional way of life and emerging identity during the early years of statehood.

Predominantly pink, purple and cream in colour, the note combines traditional desert imagery with symbols of national development. Today, these early UAE banknotes are an important part of the country’s monetary history and are no longer commonly encountered in circulation.

If you hold historic UAE banknotes, Webuyallcurrency.com provides a convenient way to exchange eligible foreign banknotes.

Can UAE 5 Dirham banknotes be exchanged?

Yes. Older UAE banknotes may still be exchangeable depending on their withdrawal status and condition. Specialist foreign currency exchange services are often the most practical route for exchanging historic UAE notes.

Key information

Front of the banknote

The front design shares several themes with other denominations from the inaugural UAE currency series.

At the centre is a vignette containing a traditional dhow sailing vessel positioned above a caravan of camels crossing the desert. Together these images reflect the two foundations of life in the region before the discovery of oil: maritime trade and desert commerce.

A palm tree appears to the left of the scene, representing oasis agriculture and prosperity, while an oil derrick appears to the right, symbolising the emerging petroleum industry that would help transform the economy of the UAE.

A decorative string of pearls extends beneath the central vignette, acknowledging the historical importance of pearl diving throughout the Gulf region.

Arabic inscriptions identify the denomination as five dirhams, while intricate geometric and floral patterns frame the note.

Reverse of the banknote

The reverse features a detailed engraving of a traditional fort, reflecting the architectural heritage and defensive structures that once protected settlements throughout the Emirates.

The fort dominates the central design and is depicted with thick stone walls, rounded watchtowers and elevated defensive positions. The structure stands within a rugged landscape dotted with palm trees and desert vegetation.

This imagery reflects the historical importance of forts throughout the region. Such structures served as administrative centres, trading posts and defensive strongholds long before the formation of the modern UAE.

To the left appears a falcon, one of the most recognisable symbols of Emirati culture. Falconry has been practised in the Arabian Peninsula for centuries and remains closely associated with the heritage of the UAE.

English text across the top identifies the issuing authority as the “United Arab Emirates Currency Board”, while “Five Dirhams” appears prominently along the lower edge.

The significance of the 1973 UAE banknote series

The introduction of the UAE Dirham in the early 1970s helped establish a unified monetary system across the federation.

Prior to this, different currencies had circulated throughout the region. The creation of a national currency was an important step in strengthening economic integration and national identity.

The first series of UAE banknotes deliberately combined imagery from traditional life, maritime trade, desert culture and modern economic development to represent the country’s past and future.

Symbolism of the design

The note contains several important national symbols:

• Dhow boat – maritime trade and seafaring traditions.
• Camel caravan – desert travel and Bedouin heritage.
• Palm tree – agriculture and oasis settlements.
• Pearls – the historic pearl diving industry.
• Oil derrick – economic development and natural resources.
• Fort – security, governance and historical architecture.
• Falcon – national identity and traditional culture.

Together, these elements create a visual representation of the UAE’s cultural and economic foundations.

Why UK banks do not accept old UAE banknotes

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

As a result, individuals who discover old UAE banknotes in collections, estates or travel memorabilia 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 5 Dirhams banknote?

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

When was this note introduced?

It formed part of the first UAE banknote series issued in 1973.

What appears on the front of the note?

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

What appears on the reverse?

The reverse depicts a traditional fort 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 UAE 5 Dirhams banknotes issued in 1973, Webuyallcurrency.com offers a simple way to convert foreign coins and banknotes and convert eligible historic UAE currency into a convenient payment.