What Are The Iconic Landmarks On The UAE Banknotes?

If you’ve been in Dubai for a while, you might have noticed the shift from paper to polymer banknotes. The UAE’s first polymer banknote was the AED 50 note, which was introduced on December 7, 2021, to celebrate the UAE’s golden jubilee. Since then, the AED 5, AED 10, AED 500, and AED 1000 notes have also transitioned to polymer, while the AED 20, AED 100, and AED 200 notes are still paper. And if you’ve ever looked at the bills closer, you’ll see they aren’t just colourful with high-security features, but they also feature iconic landmarks from across the 7 Emirates! So, come with me, and let’s take a tour of the UAE and discover where these landmarks.

Also read: This New UAE Govt Decision Will Give Us More Public Holidays In 2025

AED 5 Bill: Ajman Fort & Dhayah Fort

The AED 5 note is all about history. On the front, you’ll see Ajman Fort, which is now home to the Ajman Museum. Flip the note over, and you’ll find an image of Dhayah Fort, Ras Al Khaimah’s highest hilltop fortress.

AED 10 Bill: Sheikh Zayed Mosque & Khorfakkan Theatre

On the AED 10 note, you’ll find the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the UAE’s most important religious and cultural landmarks in Abu Dhabi. On the back is Sharjah’s impressive Khorfakkan Amphitheatre, a symbol of art and culture in the region.

Also read: There Is 1 UAE Public Holiday Remaining For 2024 – Find Out Which

AED 20 Bill: Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club and Dhow Boats

The AED 20 note features the famous Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on the front. This world-renowned club attracts both professionals and amateurs from around the globe. On the reverse side, you’ll spot a traditional Emirati dhow boat, a nod to the pre-oil era when fishing and pearl diving were central to the country’s economy.

AED 50 Bill: The Late Sheikh Zayed, Wahat Al Karama & Etihad Museum

The AED 50 note is packed with history. The front showcases the founding fathers of the UAE signing the union document. It also features the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in this historic moment. Wahat Al Karama, a tribute to the soldiers who served the country, is present on both sides of the note, along with the Etihad Museum.

Also read: UAE: See An Ultra Rare Comet Next Month Without A Telescope

AED 100 Bill: Al Fahidi Fort & World Trade Centre

The AED 100 note still comes in paper form. On the front, you’ll find Al Fahidi Fort, which was once the residence of the rulers and now serves as Dubai Museum. On the back, the World Trade Centre in Dubai is depicted as a hub for trade and business that has been a key part of the city’s growth.

AED 200 Bill: Zayed Sports City & Central Bank of the UAE

On the front of the AED 200 note, you’ll see Zayed Sports City, one of the UAE’s largest sports complexes, along with the Sharia Court in Abu Dhabi. The back features the Central Bank of the UAE’s headquarters, also located in Abu Dhabi.

Also read: Etihad Rail: UAE’s First-Ever Passenger Railway Stations To Be Set Up Across The Emirates

AED 500 Bill: Burj Khalifa & Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion

The new AED 500 polymer note, released in 2023, celebrates the UAE’s journey towards sustainability. The back features Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion from Expo City Dubai, previously known as Expo 2020. On the front, the iconic Burj Khalifa stands tall alongside the Museum of the Future and the Twin Towers in the background.

AED 1000 Bill: Sheikh Zayed & Barakah Nuclear Power Plant

The AED 1000 note pays homage to the UAE’s achievements in space and energy. The front shows Sheikh Zayed alongside a model space shuttle, referencing his vision for the UAE’s space program. The Hope Probe from the Emirates Mars Mission is also featured. On the reverse side, you’ll find the Barakah nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the UAE’s commitment to diversifying its energy sources.

You may also like: 10 Mega Projects That Look Out-Of-This-World That Are Coming To The UAE Soon