Transferring Money to Dubai: What International Property Buyers Need to Know in 2025
Dubai’s skyline isn’t just impressive, it’s magnetic. With high rental yields, world-class infrastructure, and a tax-friendly environment, it’s no surprise that more international buyers are snapping up property in the UAE.
But whether you’re buying off-plan in Business Bay or a holiday apartment on The Palm, there’s a vital step you’ll need to plan carefully:
Transferring your money.
If you’re buying from overseas using GBP, USD, EUR, or CAD, you’ll need to convert your currency into UAE dirhams (AED). And how you do it can have a serious impact on your bottom line.
Here’s what international buyers should know about moving money to Dubai in 2025.
Currency Matters More Than You Think
Dubai properties are typically priced and transacted in AED, which is pegged to the US dollar. That means:
If you're buying from the US, you benefit from a stable and predictable rate.
If you're buying from the UK, Europe, or Canada, your cost depends on how your currency is performing against the dollar.
On a property worth AED 2 million, even a small swing in GBP/USD or EUR/USD could mean a difference of £5,000–£10,000+ in what you pay.
So while Dubai offers great value, timing and strategy matter if you want to avoid losing money on your transfer.
Why Using Your Bank Could Cost You More
If you’re thinking of using your bank for the transfer, take a pause. Most banks:
Give you less competitive exchange rates
Charge high international wire fees
Don’t let you lock in a good rate
Won’t help you time the market or guide you through the process
At Moving Currency, we offer:
Better-than-bank rates
Low or no transfer fees
Personal support
Tools like rate alerts and forward contracts
We make sure your AED arrives safely and on time, wherever it needs to go.
Can You Lock in a Rate?
Absolutely and it’s a smart move, especially for off-plan properties.
Many buyers in Dubai pay in stages, over months or even years. A forward contract lets you:
Lock in today’s exchange rate for future payments
Know your exact cost in pounds, euros, or dollars
Protect yourself against rate drops
That means no unpleasant surprises at the next payment milestone.
How Property Payments Work in Dubai
Most developers or agents in Dubai will give you a payment schedule, often like this:
Reservation deposit
Initial down payment (e.g. 10–20%)
Multiple instalments as construction progresses
Final payment on handover
Funds usually go directly to:
The developer’s escrow account
Or your conveyancing agent
Timely transfers are critical, late payments can lead to penalties or loss of your booking.
At Moving Currency, we handle staged payments with precision, reminders, and full tracking.
When Should You Start Planning?
If you’ve already signed a reservation form, yesterday!
If you’re just starting to browse, now is perfect!
Early planning helps you:
Understand how far your budget goes in AED
Monitor rates (especially if you're not paying in USD)
Set up alerts for favourable moves
Lock in a rate if needed
We’ll guide you through all of it, even if your purchase is months away.
Expert Support That Feels Personal
At Moving Currency, we’ve helped international buyers from the US, UK, Canada and Europe send millions to Dubai safely, quickly, and cost-effectively.
Whether you’re an investor, a future resident, or buying your dream holiday pad, you’ll get:
A personal currency strategy
Better rates than the banks
Friendly, human service
And yes, we’re here to answer questions like “what’s a good rate right now?” or “should I transfer it all at once?”
Ready to Move Money to Dubai?
Let’s make your transfer stress-free (and your budget go further).
Book a free call with Claire
Or visit www.movingcurrency.com
We’ll help you move your money with confidence, so you can focus on the fun part: picking the perfect view.