Travel

The Dirham Dilemma: How to Avoid Tourist Traps and Save Big in the UAE

Dipika

Feb 5, 2025

Planning your UAE trip? The glitz of Dubai malls, the thrill of desert safaris, and the charm of souks await! But hold up—before you splurge, let’s talk about a sneaky villain: hidden currency costs.

Many tourists end up paying more than they should, thanks to poor exchange rates, dynamic currency conversion, and unnecessary transaction fees. But worry not! Here’s how you can spend smart and save big with Zupl.

1. Skip the Airport Exchange Counters 🚫

Yes, they’re convenient, but they come with sky-high exchange rates and fees. Instead, opt for local money exchange centers or use Zupl to find the best conversion rates hassle-free.

2. Always Pay in Dirhams 💳

When paying by card, always choose to be charged in AED (dirhams) instead of your home currency. Those “Would you like to pay in your currency?” prompts? They usually mean extra fees!

3. Track Your Spending Like a Pro 📊

Dubai’s shopping scene is irresistible, but overspending? Not so much. Zupl’s digital wallet helps you track your spending in real-time so you can enjoy guilt-free retail therapy.

4. Convert in Bulk 💰

Frequent small exchanges = more hidden fees. Instead, plan ahead and exchange a larger amount at once to lock in better rates.

5. Use Digital Payments for Safety & Savings 🔒

Carrying cash in a high-energy city? Risky. Use Zupl’s digital payment solutions to go

Smart spending, zero overspending. Let’s Zupl it! 🚀