The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) introduced two new 5- and 10-Dirham banknotes, on 21 April 2022 and 26 April 2022, respectively. It is notable that the new banknotes are printed on De La Rue’s Safeguard® polymer substrate, not on cotton as the previous notes were.
The 50-Dirham polymer banknote was issued in December 2021.
In a press release, the CBUAE emphasized that “The new AED5 and AED10 banknotes highlight the CBUAE’s adoption of sustainable practices and its efforts to develop enhanced environmental standards in the financial sector, and to promote sustainable growth by using environmentally friendly and recyclable polymer material. They are more durable and sustainable than traditional cotton paper banknotes, lasting two or more times longer in circulation.”
View the new notes’ designs and security features up-close
Keesing’s document experts have created an exclusive infographic that describes and illustrates the design elements and security features of the new 5-Dirham and 10-Dirham banknotes. Download the infographic, or read on to learn more.
New 5-Dirham Banknote
The new 5-Dirham note was entered into circulation on 21 April 2022. It measures 143 x 66mm and has the same colour scheme as the 5-Dirham notes already in circulation, to help the public recognize it.
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back
The front side of this note includes images of UAE national and cultural symbols such as the Ajman Fort. Text and signatures are in Arabic.
On the reverse side of the note is the image of Dhayah Fort in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. Text and “2022” on this side are in English.
New 10-Dirham Banknote
The new 10-Dirham note was entered into circulation on 26 April 2022. The dimensions are 147 x 66mm, and the green colour scheme is consistent with the 10-Dirham notes already in circulation; this will make it easy for the public to recognize the denomination.
front
back
The imagery on front side of this banknote includes the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an iconic landmark. Text and signatures are in Arabic.
The back side of the note features an image of the Khorfakkan amphitheatre, one of the unique cultural landmarks in the Emirate of Sharjah. On this side, the text and “2022” appear in English.
Security features of both new banknotes
The security features of both new banknotes include:
- A transparent window featuring a portrait of the late founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
- The logo of the UAE nation brand with fluorescent drawings and inscriptions created using advanced intaglio printing techniques.
- A see-through register.
- A latent image on the front side.
- Raised (tactile) symbols to help the visually impaired recognize the note’s denomination.
Current banknotes of both denominations will remain in circulation along with the new polymer notes.
Sources/References:
Central Bank of the UAE
Banknote Industry News
Gulf News
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