The UAE has unveiled a new Dirham symbol. Here's what it means for the future of money
In a major step towards financial innovation, the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has introduced a brand new symbol for the UAE Dirham, and it’s more than just a rebrand. It’s a bold signal that the country is ready for the next phase in digital finance, with the upcoming launch of the Digital Dirham.
A new look for the Dirham
Say hello to a sleek new symbol that you’ll start seeing more often. Inspired by the English spelling of Dirham, the character is enhanced with two horizontal lines, reflecting the UAE Dirham’s stability and paying homage to the UAE flag.
The digital version of the symbol goes a step further, featuring a circle around the main design and incorporating the colours of the flag—an emblem of national pride and a nod to the currency’s evolving global presence.
Digital Dirham: what you need to know
As part of its Financial Infrastructure Transformation (FIT) Programme, the CBUAE is rolling out the Digital Dirham, a blockchain-based version of the UAE’s national currency. Think of it as money 2. - safe, secure, and incredibly efficient.
This new currency will:
Act as legal tender, accepted across the UAE in both online and offline transactions
Be available via banks, fintech companies, exchange houses, and other licensed providers
Be issued for retail use by Q4 of 2025
It’s designed for speed, security, and convenience, thanks to cutting-edge tech like smart contracts and tokenisation, allowing for automated, multi-step transactions and improved financial inclusion.
The Digital Dirham wallet
Managing your money is about to get even more seamless. A Digital Dirham Wallet will be introduced as part of an integrated platform, giving users access to:
Everyday payments and transfers
Cross-border transactions
Redemption and top-ups
Wholesale and retail payments
The wallet also makes space for future innovations, meaning it can adapt to emerging financial use cases as the UAE’s digital economy continues to grow.
What it means for the UAE
The unveiling of the new symbol and the rollout of the Digital Dirham align with the UAE’s ambition to position itself as a leading global financial hub. By joining the FX Global Code—a first in the Arab region—the CBUAE is also reinforcing its commitment to transparency, ethical practices, and best-in-class currency exchange standards.
