How to Transfer Money Internationally from Dubai - Best Options in 2025

Sending money internationally from Dubai is a common need for expats who support families abroad, pay off loans, or manage businesses in their home countries. Fortunately, the UAE offers fast, secure, and affordable ways to send money worldwide in 2025.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• Best international money transfer options from Dubai
• Online vs offline methods
• Transfer fees and exchange rates
• Documents required
• Legal rules and tips to avoid high charges
• Most reliable services for expats
  
  

🌍 Can You Transfer Money from Dubai Internationally?

Yes, residents in Dubai can legally send money abroad using:

• Banks
• Licensed money exchange houses
• Online money transfer apps
• Cryptocurrency (under certain rules)

💡 UAE Central Bank regulates all money transfers to ensure compliance and safety.

✅ Best Ways to Transfer Money Internationally from Dubai (2025)

1️⃣ 🏦 Banks (Traditional Transfers)

Most UAE banks allow direct international wire transfers via SWIFT network to foreign bank accounts.

Popular Banks

• Emirates NBD
• ADCB
• Mashreq
• HSBC
• FAB (First Abu Dhabi Bank)
  
  

Pros:
✔ Secure & regulated
✔ Suitable for large transfers
✔ Integrated with your UAE bank account

Cons:
✖ Higher fees
✖ Lower exchange rates
✖ 1- 3 working days for processing

Fees: AED 40 -120 + FX markup
Transfer Time: 1 – 5 business days
Documents: Emirates ID, valid bank account

2️⃣ 💱 Money Exchange Centers

Licensed exchange houses offer faster, cheaper transfers with better exchange rates.

Top Exchange Houses in Dubai:

• Al Ansari Exchange
• Lulu Exchange
• Al Rostamani Exchange
• Western Union (via agents)
• UAE Exchange

Pros:
✔ Competitive exchange rates
✔ Instant or same day transfers
✔ Cash pick up or direct to account

Cons:
✖ Daily / Monthly transfer limits
✖ Cash transactions need physical presence

Fees: AED 15 – 50 (varies by corridor)
Transfer Time: Within minutes to 24 hours
Documents Required: Emirates ID or passport

3️⃣ 📱 Online Money Transfer Apps (Digital Wallets)

Best for convenience and mobile transfers – available 24/7 with transparent fees.

Top Apps in 2025:

Pros:
✔ Instant transfers
✔ Best FX rates (Wise, Remitly)
✔ Track transfers via app

Cons:
✖ Needs verification documents
✖ Not ideal for cash receivers without bank access

Fees: AED 10 – 25 + small FX markup
Transfer Time: 1 hour – 2 days

4️⃣ 💳 Cryptocurrency Transfers (Advanced Users)

Digital currency like Bitcoin (BTC), USDT, or Ethereum can be used to transfer value instantly across borders converted to cash in the destination country.

Legal Status in UAE

• Crypto trading is legal in approved zones (e.g. DMCC, ADGM)
• Not for salary or regular remittance
• Ensure both sender and receiver understand conversion

Popular Platforms: Binance, Coinbase, BitOasis

Pros:
✔ Low fees
✔ Fast global transfers
✔ No middlemen

Cons:
✖ Volatile value
✖ Requires crypto wallets
✖ Not beginner friendly

⚠️ Important: Use only regulated exchanges and follow UAE laws on crypto usage.

💰 Cost Comparison – 2025

📜 Documents Required to Send Money from Dubai

Whether using a bank, exchange house, or app, you’ll typically need:

• ✅ Valid Emirates ID or Passport with visa
• ✅ Receiver’s details (bank account or mobile wallet)
• ✅ Proof of income (for large transfers)
• ✅ Purpose of transfer (may be requested)

💡 Always keep your transfer receipt and track the status online or via app.

⚖️ Legal Limits & Compliance

• There’s no fixed monthly limit, but large transfers (over AED 50,000) may require additional documentation (source of funds, salary slip).
• Transfers must comply with anti money laundering (AML) rules.
• Always use licensed & registered providers listed by the UAE Central Bank.
  
  

🛑 Avoid These Common Mistakes

• ❌ Choosing providers with poor FX rates
• ❌ Sending money from tourist visa (must be resident)
• ❌ Providing incorrect recipient details
• ❌ Not comparing fees for different methods
• ❌ Using unlicensed agents (can result in legal trouble)
  
  

✨ Tips to Save Money When Sending from Dubai

• Use apps like Wise or Remitly for transparent FX rates
• Send larger amounts less frequently to reduce fees
• Compare offers on exchange houses’ websites
• Avoid weekend transfers (banks are closed on Sundays)
• Consider using digital wallets linked to your UAE bank account
  
  

📞 Useful Contacts