A Nation’s Currency Begins: UAE Issued Its First Dirham Coin 534 Days After Its Founding

Dubai, UAE – On May 19, 1973, just 534 days after the United Arab Emirates was officially founded, the country issued its first-ever dirham coin — a historic moment that symbolized not just economic unity, but national identity.

Prior to this milestone, the UAE used currencies like the Qatari riyal and the Bahraini dinar, but as the young nation forged its path toward unity and sovereignty, the introduction of the UAE dirham (AED) became a defining step in establishing its independent monetary system.

The Dirham: More Than Just Money

The launch of the dirham marked a major stride for the UAE, enabling:

Unified economic policy across all emirates
A new level of financial independence
The foundation for international trade, tourism, and investment growth

The dirham quickly became a symbol of stability and strength, supporting the UAE’s meteoric rise on the global economic stage. Over the past five decades, it has become a trusted and strong currency across the Middle East and beyond.

From 1973 to 2025: A Journey of Progress

From one coin in 1973 to today’s smart payment systems and digital banking revolution, the UAE continues to lead in technological and financial innovation.

As the country prepares to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its national currency, the dirham serves as a reminder of how far the nation has come — from humble beginnings to becoming a global economic powerhouse.

United Arab of Emirates - Intercontinental Post — Legacy of 1 Dirham Coin

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Visit cultural sites, walk through souks, or see the UAE’s currency history come to life in museums and exhibitions.
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