Today, there are a variety of ways to transfer money abroad. Some people habitually use bank SWIFT transfers, others turn to systems like Western uniоn, and many opt for cash exchange. But in recent years, another tool has been gaining popularity: cryptocurrency. Let’s explore all the options and see why cryptocurrency transfers are becoming increasingly convenient.
SWIFT transfers
This is the most traditional and official method. Money is sent from a bank account and deposited directly into the recipient’s account in Dubai.
Pros: Reliability, transparency, suitable for official contracts.
Cons: Long processing times (3–5 business days), high fees, documentation required, risk of blocking.
SWIFT is a good choice for large companies where legal certainty is important.
Western uniоn and similar systems
These services allow you to quickly send money to any country. The recipient can pick it up in cash at the pickup location.
Pros: speed (transfers can take just a few minutes), worldwide availability.
Cons: high fees, transaction limits, not suitable for business transactions.
Western uniоn is most often chosen for everyday needs – helping relatives, small personal transfers.
Cash exchange (cash-to-cash, hawala)
This is a popular option, especially when dealing with Russia and Ukraine. The concept is simple: you transfer rubles or hryvnias at home, and your partner receives dirhams in Dubai.
Pros: speed (from a few hours), convenience, favorable exchange rates.
Cons: it’s important to work only with trusted operators.
Cash exchange is convenient for those who want to transfer money to the Emirates quickly and without bureaucracy.
Cryptocurrency – a new level of convenience
The most modern method, which is rapidly gaining market share. You can transfer funds in USDT, Bitcoin, or another coin, and the recipient in Dubai will cash them out in dirhams through an exchanger.
Why is this convenient:
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Translation takes from a few minutes to a couple of hours.
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The commission is minimal, especially for large amounts.
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There are no time or holiday restrictions—transactions take place 24/7.
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You can fix the rate in advance and avoid fluctuations.
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Dubai is one of the most cryptocurrency-friendly jurisdictions, with dozens of official exchanges operating there.
For many entrepreneurs, cryptocurrency has become the optimal tool: fast, cheap, and paperless.
Comparison of methods
| Way | Speed | Commission | Convenience | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SWIFT | 3-5 days | 2–5% | Average | Business, contracts |
| Western uniоn | Minutes–hours | High (up to 10%) | Simple | Personal translations |
| Cash-to-cash | Hours – 1 day | 1–2% | High | Personal and business |
| Cryptocurrency | Minutes–hours | Minimum | Maximum | Personal and business |
Result
Each money transfer method has its own unique characteristics. But while previously the choice was between the time-consuming and official SWIFT systеm and fast but expensive transfer systems, now companies and individuals have a convenient, modern tool: cryptocurrency .
For investors, entrepreneurs, and those who value speed and low costs, cryptocurrency transfers are becoming an optimal solution, especially in Dubai, where the infrastructure for such transactions has long been developed and legalized.
