UAE 5 Dirhams Polymer Banknote (Issued 2022) Exchange for Cash in the UK

UAE 5 Dirhams Polymer Banknote – Detailed Design, Security Features and Exchange Guide

The UAE 5 Dirhams Polymer Banknote was introduced in 2022 by the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates as part of a new generation of advanced polymer banknotes. Issued to coincide with the country’s continued modernisation and development, the note combines cutting-edge security technology with imagery celebrating the UAE’s cultural heritage, history and natural landscapes.

The banknote is predominantly light brown in colour and features a durable polymer substrate designed to increase longevity and enhance resistance to wear. As a current circulating banknote, it remains legal tender throughout the United Arab Emirates. In the UK, however, UAE banknotes are generally not accepted by banks and can instead be exchanged through Webuyallcurrency.com.

Can UAE 5 Dirham polymer banknotes be exchanged?

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

Key information

Front of the banknote

The front of the banknote features a detailed engraving of Qasr Al Hosn, one of the most historically significant landmarks in the UAE.

Located in Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn is the oldest surviving stone building in the city and served as the residence of the ruling family as well as a centre of governance. The structure is depicted prominently in the centre of the note, showing its distinctive watchtower and surrounding historic buildings.

A large date palm stands beside the fort, reinforcing the connection to Emirati heritage and traditional life before the discovery of oil.

To the right appears a detailed portrait medallion of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding President of the United Arab Emirates. The portrait is integrated into a sophisticated transparent security window unique to polymer banknotes.

The Arabic denomination “خمسة دراهم” (Five Dirhams) appears prominently near the lower centre of the note.

Additional features visible on the front include:

• Arabic text identifying the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates.
• A vertical serial number printed in red.
• A multicoloured Emirates logo.
• Complex geometric background patterns inspired by Islamic art and architecture.
• Advanced transparent security elements embedded within the polymer substrate.

Reverse of the banknote

The reverse continues the heritage theme while showcasing one of the UAE’s most important archaeological sites.

The central design depicts Khor Fakkan Fort, a historic fortification located on the east coast of the UAE in the Emirate of Sharjah.

The illustration shows the fort positioned on elevated terrain overlooking the surrounding landscape. Stone stairways, defensive walls and rugged natural scenery are engraved in remarkable detail, creating one of the most intricate reverse designs ever used on a UAE banknote.

To the left is another portrait medallion featuring Sheikh Zayed, integrated into the transparent polymer security window.

Prominent English-language inscriptions include:

• “CENTRAL BANK OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES”
• “FIVE DIRHAMS”

The year “2022” appears on the reverse, identifying the issue series.

Flowing wave-like guilloche patterns extend across the note, linking the historical imagery with modern security printing techniques.

Polymer security features

The UAE 5 Dirhams note incorporates numerous advanced security elements, including:

• Transparent polymer windows.
• Metallic security components.
• Microprinting.
• Colour-shifting elements.
• Raised tactile printing.
• Complex anti-counterfeiting patterns.
• Integrated portrait security windows.

These features make the note significantly more secure than traditional paper banknotes.

Why Qasr Al Hosn was chosen

Qasr Al Hosn is often regarded as the birthplace of modern Abu Dhabi.

Originally constructed as a defensive watchtower, it later evolved into a fort and royal residence. The building remains one of the most important symbols of Emirati heritage and reflects the country’s transformation from a small coastal settlement into a modern nation.

Its inclusion on the banknote highlights the importance of preserving the UAE’s cultural identity while embracing innovation.

Why Khor Fakkan Fort appears on the reverse

Khor Fakkan has historically been an important trading and defensive settlement on the Gulf of Oman.

The fort and its surrounding archaeological remains provide valuable insight into the region’s maritime and military history. By featuring the site on the banknote, the UAE acknowledges the importance of preserving historical landmarks across all seven emirates.

Why UK banks do not accept UAE banknotes

Most UK banks do not exchange foreign banknotes outside major reserve currencies. As a result, travellers often return from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates with banknotes that cannot be exchanged through traditional banking channels.

How to exchange UAE 5 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 5 Dirhams polymer note still legal tender?

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

What building appears on the front?

The front features Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi, one of the UAE’s most important historic landmarks.

What is shown on the reverse?

The reverse depicts Khor Fakkan Fort and its surrounding landscape.

Why is the note made from polymer?

Polymer banknotes are more durable, cleaner and more secure than traditional paper notes.

Can I exchange UAE banknotes in the UK?

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

Exchange your UAE banknotes

If you have UAE 5 Dirhams polymer banknotes from a holiday, business trip or overseas travel, Webuyallcurrency.com provides a straightforward way to exchange foreign banknotes and convert unused UAE currency into a convenient payment.