Going cashless in UAE? Top digital payment options tourists must know
From international to local wallets—here’s your guide to going cashless in the UAE
Dubai: From Dubai’s malls to Abu Dhabi’s cultural sites, the UAE is now one of the world’s most cashless travel destinations. You can pay almost anywhere with just a tap, scan, or swipe — thanks to wide card acceptance and mobile wallets.
Credit and debit cards work at most places, including hotels, shops, taxis, and restaurants. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, while Amex is also supported in many locations.
When paying, choose UAE dirhams (AED) — not your home currency — to avoid extra fees. Also, inform your bank before you travel to prevent card blocks due to "suspicious" activity abroad.
Global mobile payment apps
Contactless terminals are everywhere in the UAE. Just tap your phone or smartwatch and go. Widely supported apps include:
Apple Pay – iPhone & Apple Watch users
Google Pay – For Android users
Samsung Wallet – Works well with most POS systems
Pro Tip: Set up your wallet before arriving. Look for the wave symbol at checkouts.
UAE wallets tourists can explore
Some UAE wallets offer exclusive perks or work best with services tourists already use—like ride-hailing, food delivery, or online shopping. But note: many require a UAE mobile number or Emirates ID for full access.
1. e& money (formerly Etisalat Wallet)
Best for: Tourists with a UAE SIM card (Etisalat or du).
Offers virtual prepaid Mastercard, bill payment tools, and money transfer options.
Note: Full features require Emirates ID—but some access may be possible with a tourist SIM.
2. du Pay
Great for: Tourists using a du tourist SIM.
Features: Mobile top-ups, bill payments, prepaid Visa card.
Caution: Some services restricted without Emirates ID.
3. Payit (by FAB)
Ideal for: Tourists who want a prepaid Visa card (Letsgo Payit Card).
Use for shopping, dining, attractions—plus enjoy exclusive discounts.
Features: QR code payments, bill splitting, frequent local offers.
4. Careem Pay
Ideal for: Tourists using Careem for rides, food or grocery delivery.
Link your international card and pay seamlessly within the app.
Features: Peer-to-peer transfers, bill splitting, in-app promos.
5. Klip (by Emirates Digital Wallet LLC)
Ideal for: Tourists seeking a simple digital wallet—even without a local bank account.
Features: Mobile payments, peer-to-peer transfers, designed to reduce cash usage.
3. Prepaid travel cards
For tourists who prefer better spending control without carrying too much cash, prepaid travel cards help too. These cards are available at major exchange houses like Al Ansari Exchange and Al Fardan Exchange, with popular options including TravelCard and Travelez Plus.
They allow you to lock in exchange rates, offer tap-and-go convenience, and aren’t linked to your bank account, adding an extra layer of security. Best of all, they’re widely accepted across the UAE, making them a practical choice for travellers.
When cash still counts for UAE tourists
Most places in the UAE accept cards and mobile payments, but it’s smart to carry some AED for souks, street vendors, tipping, or small cafés and taxis that may not accept cards.
You can exchange currency at malls or money exchange outlets, or withdraw cash from widely available ATMs. Avoid hotel exchanges, as rates are usually less favourable.
ATMs support international Visa and Mastercard cards, with daily withdrawal limits around Dh5,000. To save on fees, withdraw larger amounts less often.
Bottom line? With international cards, mobile wallets, and optional UAE apps, spending in the UAE is now easier than ever. Whether you’re booking a desert safari, shopping in a souk, or ordering food through Careem—you can tap, scan, or swipe your way through it all.
Just make sure your apps are set up in advance, carry some cash for back-up, and consider adding a local wallet or prepaid card for added flexibility and deals.
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