The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a new official symbol for its currency, the dirham, marking a significant step in the nation’s financial evolution. Unveiled by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) on March 27, 2025, this new design represents both the country’s heritage and its forward-looking financial ambitions.
A Symbol Rooted in National Pride
The new dirham symbol, inspired by the letter “D,” has two lines representing stability and security. Inspired by the UAE national flag, the design reflects the country’s unity, strength, and commitment to innovation. The initiative aims to establish the Dirham as a globally recognized currency, enhancing its presence in international markets.
looking forward to better future
Alongside the physical symbol, the UAE has also introduced a unique design for the Digital Dirham. The Digital Dirham encircles the symbol with UAE flag colors, showcasing pride, advancing finance, and modernizing transactions.
Strengthening Global Financial Position
The new dirham symbol reflects the UAE’s adoption of the FX Global Code, making CBUAE the Arab region’s first to implement global best practices. This move highlights the country’s dedication to ensuring transparency, integrity, and efficiency in foreign exchange transactions.
Launch Timeline for the Digital Dirham

The CBUAE has announced that the Digital Dirham will be officially introduced in Q4 2025. It will be available through licensed financial institutions such as banks, exchange houses, and fintech companies. The Digital Dirham boosts efficiency, cuts costs, enhances security, and cements the UAE’s leadership in digital finance.
Key Features of the Digital Dirham
The Digital Dirham comes with several advanced features designed to improve financial transactions:
- Tokenization: Enables fractional ownership of digital assets, increasing accessibility and liquidity.
- Smart Contracts: Automates transaction execution, ensuring seamless multi-party transactions without intermediaries.
- Enhanced Security: Built on blockchain technology, providing strong encryption, fraud prevention, and real-time tracking.
A Bold Move for Financial Innovation
Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the CBUAE, emphasized that the new dirham symbol and the Digital Dirham reflect the UAE’s dedication to financial stability and technological advancement. He highlighted how these initiatives will not only reinforce Dirham’s global presence but also contribute to a safer, more efficient financial ecosystem.
The UAE continues to cement its position as a financial powerhouse, blending tradition with innovation. With the new Dirham symbol and the Digital Dirham, the nation is poised to shape the future of currency on both local and global scales.
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