The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) unveiled a new symbol for the Emirati Dirham on Thursday, marking a strategic evolution for the national currency. The design, which will be used across physical and digital platforms, reflects the UAE’s dual commitment to cultural heritage and financial innovation.
Inspired by the UAE flag’s colours (green, white, red, and black) and traditional Arabic calligraphy, the symbol’s structure forms a stylized letter “D” for Dirham. Two horizontal lines underscore the currency’s stability, while fluid curves pay homage to the region’s artistic legacy. The CBUAE emphasized that the design embodies the nation’s unity, economic strength, and global aspirations.
🔴 المركزي الإماراتي يكشف عن الرمز الجديد للدرهم الإماراتي 🪙
الرمز الجديد للدرهم تم اختياره من اسم درهم باللغة الإنجليزية Dirham، ليكون رمزاً عالمياً يمثل عملة الدولة، ويتضمن خطين أفقيين، مستوحيين من علم دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة.. pic.twitter.com/KNpuz6ncNz
— THE WOLF OF TASI ™ (@THEWOLFOFTASI) March 27, 2025The symbol features an encircling ring for digital transactions, representing security and the seamless continuity between physical and digital finance. This design choice aligns with the UAE’s upcoming blockchain-based Digital Dirham, slated for launch in 2025. The central bank highlighted that the digital currency will enhance cross-border payment efficiency, reduce costs, and bolster financial inclusion.
الرمز الرسمي الجديد للدرهم الإماراتي 🇦🇪
-الرمز النقدي، اشتق من أول حرف من كلمة "Dirham" الإنجليزية وتضمن خطان أفقيان مستوحيان من علم الإمارات.
-الرمز الرقمي، تم إضافة دائرة تحيط برمز العملة النقدية، استخدمت فيها ألوان علم الإمارات.
المصدر: مصرف الإمارات المركزي pic.twitter.com/7Po4a6tkCn
— قناة المال (@Almalchannel) March 27, 2025The redesign coincides with the UAE’s recent milestone as the first Arab nation to adopt the FX Global Code, a set of principles promoting integrity in foreign exchange markets. Analysts view the new Dirham symbol as a strategic move to reinforce the UAE’s position as a hub for fintech and sustainable finance.
With the Digital Dirham poised to revolutionize transactions, the CBUAE’s symbolic refresh signals a transformative era for the UAE’s economy that honours tradition while accelerating toward a digitized future.
