Send Money to UAE from UK – Fast, Safe & Low-Fee Options

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  • No Hidden Fees on Your First Transfer
  • Track Transfers in Real Time from the United Kingdom to the United Arab Emirates
  • Trusted FCA-Regulated Money Transfer Providers
  • Multiple Payment Options Including Debit Card, Bank Transfer & More

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What Are the Fastest and Cheapest Ways to Send Money to the UAE?

The cheapest way to send money from the UK to the UAE is via an FCA-regulated money transfer service that offers competitive exchange rates and zero or low transfer fees.

Fast and cheap providers typically offer:

  • No charge for the first transfer for new customers
  • Live price estimator to see total cost upfront
  • Multiple payment methods: bank transfer, debit card, credit card, or direct debit
  • Delivery to a bank account, mobile wallet, or cash pickup in the UAE

Examples include Equals Money, OFX, and Halo Financial.

How Long Does It Take for Money to Reach the UAE?

Transfer times vary by provider and payment method:

  • Bank transfer: 1–2 business days
  • Debit card: Same day or next working day
  • Credit card: 1–3 business days (may have extra transfer fees)
  • Cash pickup: Often instant

You can track the status using a unique tracking number.

What Do I Need to Send Money to the UAE?

To send funds to the United Arab Emirates, you need:

  • Recipient's full name (as it appears on their ID)
  • Recipient's bank account number and bank name
  • Or recipient's mobile wallet or cash pickup location
  • Valid email address or phone number for alerts
  • Your chosen payment option
What Do I Need to Send Money to the UAE

Are There Limits or Restrictions on Transfers to the UAE?

Yes. Providers have different account type limits:

Provider Max Transfer (Per Transaction) Daily Limit Docs Required
Equals Money £50,000 £100,000 ID and proof of funds
Halo Financial £100,000 Unlimited Enhanced due diligence
OFX £5,000 (min) Unlimited Business verification if needed

Some cases may require documents for fraud prevention efforts.

Compare International Money Transfer Services

Comparing Features, Fees, and Reliability for Seamless Money Transfers

Can I Send Money to the UAE if the Recipient Has No Bank Account?

Yes. You can send money to:

  • A cash pickup point via approved agent locations
  • A mobile wallet if the recipient has a supported app

The recipient will need to present ID and a reference code.

Which Providers Offer the Best Exchange Rates

Which Providers Offer the Best Exchange Rates?

The best currency exchange rates are typically offered by digital platforms with low overhead costs. These include:

  • Equals Money
  • OFX
  • Key Currency

Avoid providers that apply high exchange rate markups or hidden fees.

Can I Schedule Recurring Transfers to the UAE?

Yes. Some services let you:

  • Set up recurring international money transfers
  • Lock in exchange rates
  • Automate payments from your UK bank account

This is ideal for sending money to family, paying salaries, or managing property costs.

Compare International Money Transfer Services

Comparing Features, Fees, and Reliability for Seamless Money Transfers

How Do I Track My Transfer?

You can track your transfer in real time using:

  • A mobile app or web portal
  • Updates via email address or SMS
  • A secure unique tracking number provided after confirmation

This gives peace of mind that your funds are being sent safely.

What Safety Measures Should I Look For?

When sending funds abroad, always choose a provider that:

  • Is authorised by the FCA
  • Uses advanced encryption and 2FA
  • Offers secure login to monitor your money transfer
  • Has visible fraud prevention efforts

Compare International Money Transfer Services

Comparing Features, Fees, and Reliability for Seamless Money Transfers

What Steps Should I Follow to Transfer Money from the UK to the UAE Using a Money Transfer App?

Using a money transfer app is one of the easiest and fastest ways to send money from the United Kingdom to the United Arab Emirates. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you complete the process securely:

1. Download a Trusted App

Choose an FCA-regulated app that supports international money transfer to the UAE. Partners like Equals Money or OFX offer secure, user-friendly mobile apps. Look for apps with strong fraud prevention efforts, a clear fee structure, and good customer reviews.

2. Create and Verify Your Account

To comply with UK financial regulations, you’ll need to:

  • Enter your full name, email address, and phone number
  • Provide proof of ID (passport or driving licence)
  • Confirm your UK bank account or debit card details for funding transfers

Some apps may ask you to verify your address or submit a selfie for identity matching.

3. Add Recipient Details in the UAE

You'll need the recipient’s:

  • Full name (matching their bank ID)
  • Bank account number and IBAN
  • Account type (e.g. savings or current)
  • Bank name and SWIFT/BIC code
  • Phone number for delivery confirmation or mobile wallet top-up

4. Enter the Amount and Currency

Type in the amount you want to send in British Pounds. The app will show the exchange rate, total cost, and estimated delivery time. Some also offer a price estimator so you can preview before confirming.

5. Choose a Payment Method

Common payment options include:

  • Bank transfer or direct debit
  • Debit or credit card
  • Balance from your in-app wallet

Note: Some methods have transfer fees or hidden fees, so always compare before proceeding.

6. Review and Confirm

Double-check all account details, especially the recipient’s name and bank information. Once confirmed, you’ll receive a unique tracking number and real-time updates via email or in-app alerts.

7. Track Your Transfer

You can monitor the transfer in real time within the app. Most services also send updates via SMS or email address. Transfers to the UAE usually arrive by the next working day, depending on the provider.

FAQs – About Sending Money to the UAE

Yes, but check the transfer fees from your credit card provider.

Yes. Most platforms allow transfers in local currency (AED) or British pounds.

No. It’s only needed for bank deposit transfers. Cash pickup or mobile wallets don’t require it.

Only if the money hasn’t been collected or credited yet. Contact your provider quickly.

Some UK banks offer transfers, but they often charge higher fees and less competitive rates.

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Page last updated on: 13/08/2025

Page reviewed by: Andrea Troy

4000+ reviews