If you’re planning a trip to the UAE, buying real estate, or simply want to hold cash in the local currency, it’s important to know how to safely and profitably exchange hryvnia for dirhams (AED) .
Direct hryvnia exchange is rare in the UAE, so several options are usually used: through a bank, an intermediary (hawala), or cryptocurrency.
1. Through banks
Some Ukrainian banks work with foreign currency and may offer exchange for dirhams:
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Pros: official and safe method, minimal risk.
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Cons: Not all banks support AED, the exchange rate is often unfavorable, commissions up to 2–3%.
Tip: Check the availability of dirhams in advance and compare rates from different banks.
2. Through exchange offices
There are currency exchange offices in tourist areas and airports:
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Pros: fast and convenient.
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Cons: the rate may be overpriced.
Advice: Use only verified licensed exchangers.
3. Through an intermediary / hawala
If you need to exchange large amounts of hryvnia → dirhams for transfers abroad or real estate payments:
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You transfer hryvnias to an intermediary in Ukraine.
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His partner in the UAE issues the equivalent in dirhams.
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Money can be received in cash or transferred to a bank account.
Pros:
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You can transfer large amounts without any problems.
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Usually a good rate.
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Fast and convenient way to pay for real estate or business.
Cons: You need to choose a trusted intermediary.
4. Via cryptocurrency
If you are familiar with crypto:
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Exchange hryvnias for stable cryptocurrency (USDT, USDC).
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Transfer your crypto to a UAE exchange or exchanger where it will be exchanged for dirhams.
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You receive money in cash or to your account.
Pros: fast, online, allows you to monitor the exchange rate.
Cons: requires cryptocurrency experience, fees, not all services support AED.
Tips for safe sharing
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Check the licenses and reputation of exchangers or intermediaries.
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Fix the rate and amount in advance.
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For large amounts, draw up a receipt or agreement.
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Avoid exchanging money on the street and through dubious websites.
Step-by-step instructions: how to exchange 500,000 hryvnia for dirhams
Option 1: Through a bank
Step 1: Find a bank that accepts dirhams.
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Call or check the website to confirm AED availability.
Step 2: Compare rates and fees.
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Some banks charge a commission of up to 2–3%.
Step 3. Make the exchange.
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Either at a bank branch or through an online service, if supported.
Step 4. Receive dirhams.
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In cash or to a bank currency account.
Pros: Safe, official.
Cons: Not the best rate, large sums can be a problem.
Option 2: Through an intermediary / hawala
Step 1: Find a reputable and trusted broker.
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Look for reviews and recommendations, especially when exchanging large amounts.
Step 2. Fix the rate and amount in advance.
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This will protect you from unexpected exchange rate changes.
Step 3. Transfer 500,000 hryvnia to the intermediary.
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It is better to do it through the office or cash desk, with confirmation.
Step 4: Receive the equivalent in UAE dirhams.
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You can pay in cash or by crediting your account.
Pros: fast, favorable rate, convenient for large sums and real estate payments.
Cons: requires a trusted intermediary.
Option 3: Via cryptocurrency
Step 1: Convert hryvnias to stable cryptocurrencies (USDT, USDC) through an exchange or exchange in Ukraine.
Step 2: Transfer your crypto to a platform in the UAE, where you can exchange it for dirhams.
Step 3: Exchange crypto for dirhams.
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You can withdraw to your account or receive in cash.
Pros: fast, online, ability to monitor exchange rates.
Cons: cryptocurrency experience required, fees, not all services support AED.
