Is United Arab Emirates cashless?
Go cashless#16 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #1 of 17 in Middle East
Short answer: Pay by card or phone almost everywhere. For cash, HSBC and Citibank ATMs are reported not to charge foreign cards.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are nearly cashless for visitors. Taxis, metro, malls and restaurants all take cards.
Will my card work?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in United Arab Emirates, and contactless is common.
Do I need cash?
Rarely. You can get by in United Arab Emirates with a card or phone almost everywhere.
Local currency: UAE dirham (AED)
How does tipping work?
10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Getting cash: ATMs
Some ATMs are fee-free
Some banks charge foreign cards, for example Mashreq at about AED 25 per withdrawal.
Fee-free options
- HSBC (reported free)
- Citibank (reported free)
Your own bank may charge extra. When an ATM offers to convert to your home currency, decline and pay in the local currency.
Good to know
- Keep some small notes for abra boats and souq shopping.
Frequently asked questions
Is United Arab Emirates cashless?
United Arab Emirates scores 88/100 on Cashlessy (go cashless), ranking #16 of 197 countries. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are nearly cashless for visitors. Taxis, metro, malls and restaurants all take cards.
Do I need cash in United Arab Emirates?
Rarely. You can get by in United Arab Emirates with a card or phone almost everywhere.
Are credit cards accepted in United Arab Emirates?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in United Arab Emirates, and contactless is common.
Do you tip in United Arab Emirates?
10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in United Arab Emirates?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in United Arab Emirates.
Which ATMs are free in United Arab Emirates?
Some banks charge foreign cards, for example Mashreq at about AED 25 per withdrawal. Best options: HSBC (reported free); Citibank (reported free).
Compare with Middle East
Sources
Checked against sources in September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.