Sending money to Dubai doesn’t need to be complicated, but it can result in expensive FX fees if you’re not careful.
In this article, we’re going to share some of the most popular options, their pros and cons, and discuss lesser-known alternatives like opening a foreign currency account offshore.
Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to any sections that are immediately relevant to your search.
Table of Contents
How to Send Money to Dubai
There are several methods that most people can use in order to send money to Dubai, these include money service businesses, traditional bank accounts, online services, and alternative solutions like cryptocurrencies and stablecoins.
That said, most people typically choose between the first three options referenced, so we’re going to dive into each of these below so you can decide which is best for you.
Online Money Transfer
One of the most popular ways to send funds to Dubai is using online transfer services. This can include options like Wise and similar alternatives. In fact, we often suggest that our members consider using services like Wise, in combination with their international bank accounts in order to take advantage of low-cost transfers and better foreign exchange rates.
International Money Transfers via Banks
It is entirely possible to send money to Dubai through international transfers at your existing bank. However, depending on where your bank is located and its familiarity with sending international transfers, it’s possible that it could take longer for the transfer to arrive. Additionally, when compared to online transfer services like those referenced above, traditional banks often charge much higher fees and the exchange rates are often less favorable.
Other Money Transfer Services
An alternative that you may want to consider when sending money to Dubai is opening a foreign currency account with an international bank that deals in both AED (Dubai’s currency) and the currency from your home currency (e.g. USD). In doing so, you can often reduce the foreign exchange fees associated with sending transfers since you would be sending AED to an AED recipient.
Do You Want Our Free Non-Resident Banking Guide?
Sign up here to receive our Free Non-Resident Banking Starter Guide and weekly updates on the best account opening options available:
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are three of the most common questions that we receive from people sending money to Dubai. If you have further questions you would like answered, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.
What Is the Best Way to Send Money to UAE?
The best transfer method for sending money to the UAE is going to depend on what you’re prioritizing. In most cases, this means deciding between speed, fees, or security. That said, most people will find that sending money to Dubai through an international transfer service like Wise or directly through their bank often offers the best combination of all three considerations.
How Much Does It Cost to Send Money to Dubai?
The cost to send money to Dubai depends on the transfer method that you choose and the amount of money that is being sent. Most international banks will have a fixed fee for transfers within certain thresholds. Of course, if you are sending money to Dubai for deposit into an AED account and it is originating from a non-AED account, you will likely be charged foreign exchange fees on the transaction as well.
How Can I Send Money to Dubai Instantly?
There are several methods that you can use to send money to Dubai instantly, including money transfer services or crypto transfers. However, another alternative is to open foreign currency accounts with international banks, which allow you to transfer money into your AED account, which can be domiciled in Dubai. Of course, this option will depend on the bank and your ability to meet their account opening requirements.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If so, you can access GlobalBanks Insider and start the process of applying for an offshore account in a few clicks.
GlobalBanks Insider is a dedicated account opening solution that involves direct support from our team and direct introductions to the banks of your choosing. It gives you instant access to the…
+ Direct support from a team of banking experts
+ Direct introductions to your desired banks
+ Answers to your most pressing questions and challenges
+ Expert insights on which banks to choose & why
+ Plus, FULL access to our entire suite of account opening tools and intelligence!
And “yes!” GlobalBanks Insider is designed to help foreign and non-resident individuals and companies open bank accounts.
You can learn more on the Products page on our website.