If you’re planning a trip to the UAE, buying real estate, or simply want to hold cash in the local currency, the question arises: how to exchange rubles for dirhams (AED) profitably and safely .
1. Through banks
Many large Russian banks offer currency exchange, but there are some nuances:
-
Pros: official method, minimal risk, can be arranged through a bank in advance.
-
Cons: Not all banks work with dirhams, the exchange rate can be unfavorable, and the commission can sometimes be up to 3–5%.
Tip: Check the availability of dirhams at the branch and compare rates at different banks.
2. Through exchange offices
There are often currency exchange offices at airports, shopping malls, and tourist areas:
-
Pros: fast, convenient.
-
Cons: the exchange rate is often worse.
Advice: Use only trusted, licensed exchangers and avoid “street” exchanges.
3. Through intermediaries and international transfer systems
If you want to exchange rubles for dirhams to pay for real estate or transfer money abroad , it’s easier to work through an intermediary:
-
You give rubles to an intermediary in Russia.
-
His partner in the UAE issues the equivalent in dirhams.
-
Money can be received in cash or credited to an account.
Pros:
-
Large amounts can be exchanged.
-
Favorable rate.
-
Possibility to use for direct payments for real estate.
Cons: You need to choose a trusted intermediary.
4. Via cryptocurrency
If you prefer working online, you can convert rubles into cryptocurrency (such as USDT) and then exchange them for dirhams through a local exchange or exchange in the UAE.
Pros: fast transfers, you can control the exchange rate, no need for banks.
Cons: cryptocurrency experience required, small fees, not all platforms directly support AED.
Tips for safe sharing
-
Check rates and fees in advance.
-
Use only licensed exchangers or verified intermediaries.
-
For large amounts, it is better to issue a receipt or confirmation of the transaction.
-
Avoid exchanging on the street and through dubious websites.
Step-by-step instructions: how to profitably exchange 1 million rubles for dirhams
Option 1: Through a bank
Step 1. Choose a bank that accepts dirhams.
-
Call a few major banks or check their website to see if they have dirhams in stock.
Step 2. Compare rates and fees.
-
Some banks charge a commission of up to 3-5%. Choose the most profitable option.
Step 3. Make an exchange.
-
Either come to a branch or apply online (if the bank supports this operation).
Step 4. Receive dirhams.
-
Banks usually issue cash or credit it to a foreign currency account.
Pros: Safe and official.
Cons: The rate is usually not the best, and large sums can be difficult to exchange at once.
Option 2: Through an intermediary / hawala
Step 1: Find a reputable, trusted broker.
-
It is better to use recommendations or reviews from other clients.
Step 2. Fix the rate and amount in advance.
-
This will protect against unexpected exchange rate changes.
Step 3. We transfer 1 million rubles to the intermediary.
-
You can do this through the office or the cashier to obtain official confirmation.
Step 4. Receive the equivalent in UAE dirhams.
-
Money can be received in cash or transferred directly to the developer/recipient’s account.
Pros: fast, large amounts can be exchanged, favorable rates.
Cons: need to trust the intermediary.
Option 3: Via cryptocurrency
Step 1: Convert rubles into a stable cryptocurrency (e.g., USDT) through an exchange or service in Russia.
Step 2: Transfer your crypto to a platform that supports AED withdrawals or through an exchanger in the UAE.
Step 3. Exchange USDT for dirhams.
-
You can withdraw to a bank account in the UAE or receive cash.
Pros: fast, unlimited, ability to control the rate.
Cons: cryptocurrency experience required, small fees, rate may fluctuate slightly.
Safety recommendations
-
Check the reputation of intermediaries or platforms.
-
Fix the rate and amount before exchanging.
-
For large amounts, draw up a receipt or agreement.
-
Avoid exchanging on the street or through dubious services.
