Following the recent launch of a new AED 100 banknote, the Central Bank of the UAE has now revealed a new Dirham symbol!
The authorities unveiled the new symbol for the national currency in its physical and digital forms, derived from the English name of the Dirham.
This serves as an international symbol representing the nation’s currency, incorporating two horizontal lines that embody the stability of the UAE dirham and are inspired by the UAE flag, to enhance financial and monetary stability.
On the other hand, the Digital Dirham symbol features a circle surrounding the physical currency symbol, using the colours of the UAE flag to reflect pride and national identity.
The symbol choice serves as evidence of the national currency’s global reach and openness to a more prosperous future, and commitment to developing an innovative local financial ecosystem with a global perspective.
What’s new with the new symbol and Digital Dirham in the UAE?
The CBUAE also announced the progress of the Issuance and Circulation of the Digital Dirham, a key initiative of the Financial Infrastructure Transformation (FIT) Programme launched by the CBUAE in 2023.
The UAE’s Digital Dirham is underpinned by Federal Decree-Law No. This will essentially ensure the acceptance of the Digital Dirham as a universal payment instrument (legal tender) in all payment outlets and channels alongside physical currency.
The unveiling of the new dirham symbol is in conjunction with the CBUAE’s recent joining to the FX Global Code, becoming the first central bank in the Arab region to do so, comes as part of the CBUAE’s efforts to establish the UAE Dirham as an international currency.
Individuals and businesses will be able to obtain the Digital Dirham through licensed financial institutions, such as banks, exchange houses, finance companies and fintech companies. The issuance of this is scheduled for the last quarter of the year 2025 for the retail sector.
It’s exciting times!