The UAE Dirham Gets Its Own Currency Symbol

​The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has unveiled a new symbol for the nation's currency, the Dirham, marking a significant step in its financial evolution.

This initiative aligns with the UAE's recent adherence to the FX Global Code, positioning it as the first central bank in the Arab region to adopt this standard.

The physical symbol features the letter "D" intersected by two horizontal lines, symbolizing the stability of the UAE Dirham and drawing inspiration from the national flag. For the Digital Dirham, the symbol is encased within a circle adorned in the UAE flag's colors, reflecting national pride and identity.

In tandem with this unveiling, the CBUAE announced the forthcoming issuance of the Digital Dirham, a blockchain-based digital currency aimed at enhancing security and efficiency in financial transactions. Slated for release in the retail sector by the last quarter of 2025, the Digital Dirham will be accessible through licensed financial institutions, including banks, exchange houses, finance companies, and fintech firms. ​

To facilitate the adoption of this digital currency, the CBUAE has developed an integrated platform featuring the Digital Dirham wallet. This wallet is designed to support a range of financial activities, such as retail and wholesale payments, cross-border transactions, money transfers, and withdrawals, ensuring a seamless user experience that aligns with the UAE's vision for a modern and innovative financial ecosystem. ​

This strategic move underscores the UAE's commitment to financial innovation and solidifies its position as a leading global financial hub.