Currency |
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Local currency
The monetary unit is the dirhams (Dhs) also known as the Arab Emirate Dirham (AED), which is divided into 100 fils. Coins come in denominations of 50 fils, 25 fils, 10 fils. Paper notes come in denominations of Dhs. 5, Dhs. 10, Dhs. 20, Dhs. 50, Dhs 100, Dhs 200, Dhs, 500 and Dhs. 1000.
Some notes are similar in appearance so check carefully when giving and receiving money. The dirham is index liked to the dollar with US$ 1= Dhs.3.67.
Exchange
The dirham is freely convertible and exchange of traveller’s cheques and cash can be made through international banks, hotels and licensed exchange houses (often bearing a better rate than banks). Exchange houses are open generally from Saturday to Thursday 8:30 hrs. to 20:30hrs.
Banks
Both locally incorporated and international banks are presented in Sharjah. All banks are strictly controlled by the UAE Central Bank and offer the full range of commercial and private banking services.
Credit cards
Major credit cards such as Visa Electron, Master card and American Express are accepted in large shops, petrol stations, hotels, some restaurants and ATMs.
ATMs
Also known as cash-points machines, can be found at banks, shopping malls, at the airport and few locations in town.
Tipping
A tip of about 10% is fine unless service is already included in the bill.
Service charge
Hotels in Sharjah do have a service charge which is 10% and Muncipality/Government tax is 5%. However, it does vary from one Emirate to another in the UAE.
