Forex Cards in UAE

What is a Forex Card (Travel / Prepaid / Multi-Currency Card)?

A forex card is a prepaid travel card that lets you load one or more foreign currencies before your trip. You can use it abroad for shopping, dining, hotel bookings, online payments, and ATM withdrawals. Since the currency is loaded in advance, you don’t have to worry about daily exchange rate changes or unexpected charges.

Forex Cards in UAE have become very common among residents who travel often for work, study, or holidays. They provide a safe and convenient alternative to carrying cash. With features like chip-and-PIN security, online card management, and multi-currency support, a forex card makes international travel much easier.

Why Use a Forex Card When Travelling To / In the UAE?

Whether you live in the UAE and are travelling abroad, or you are visiting the UAE from another country, a forex card can help you manage your travel spending more efficiently. 

Here are a few reasons why:

• Fixed Exchange Rates

A major advantage of forex cards is that you get to load foreign currency at a locked-in rate. This protects you from changes in exchange rates during your trip, helping you plan your expenses better.

• Easy International Acceptance

Most Forex Cards in UAE are issued on popular networks like Visa or Mastercard. This means you can use them at millions of shops, restaurants, hotels, and online platforms around the world without any hassle.

• Convenient ATM Withdrawals

A forex card allows you to withdraw cash in the local currency through ATMs abroad. Many cards provide access to large global ATM networks, making it easy to access cash whenever you need it.

• Safe and Simple to Use

Forex cards are safer than carrying cash. They use chip-and-PIN security and can be blocked instantly if lost. You can reload the card online, check your balance, and track your spending through the mobile app or online portal.

• Extra Travel Benefits

Some banks offer travel perks on their forex credit card options, such as cashback on hotels and flights, discounts on dining, airport transfers, or travel insurance. These benefits can add good value to your trip.

Key Features and Benefits of Forex Cards in UAE

Multi-currency forex cards are convenient for frequent travellers. They are also flexible and offer ease of payment on foreign trips. The following list details the features and benefits of multi-currency Forex cards in the UAE.

• Usable across ATMs in foreign countries
• Allow you to recharge your card virtually
• Secure payments ensured by chip and PIN security features
• Allow you to travel without having to carry cash everywhere
• Some banks offer locked forex rates and no forex charges on your card

What to Watch Out For — Pro & Cons of Forex Cards

Before choosing a forex card, it helps to understand both the advantages and the possible limitations.

Pros

• Many cards support multiple currencies on a single card.
• You usually get better rates than at airport exchange counters.
• Several cards charge zero foreign exchange markup fees on international transactions.
• They are safer than carrying cash, and can be replaced easily.
• Online reloads and balance checks make them very convenient. 
• Some cards come with travel rewards or cashback offers.

Cons

• Some issuers may charge ATM withdrawal fees abroad.
• There may be inactivity charges if the card is not used for a long time.
• Spending in an unsupported currency may involve conversion fees.
• Refunding the leftover balance into your UAE account can take a few days.

Even with these points, forex cards remain one of the most practical ways to manage overseas spending.

Top Forex Cards in the UAE

The top forex cards available in the UAE that you can utilise for your next foreign trips are listed below.

Emirates NBD GlobalCash Card

The Emirates NBD GlobalCash Card is offered by the Emirates NBD bank, and it can be used across 42 countries.

Features and Benefits of Emirates NBD GlobalCash Card

• The GlobalCash Card can carry up to 15 currencies in 42 countries
• The forex card can be managed through online and mobile banking 
• The card can access over 2.1 million ATMs worldwide
• Reload your card through Emirates NBD branches, online or mobile banking or a cash deposit machine
• Account-to-account transfer
• Get foreign currency cash through branches
• Inward telegraphic transfer

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FAB Multi Currency Prepaid Card

The FAB Multi Currency Prepaid Card is offered by the First Abu Dhabi Bank, and it is accepted in countries like the US, India, UAE, Egypt, Thailand, and Singapore, among others.

Features and Benefits of FAB Multi Currency Prepaid Card

• Carry up to 24 currencies on one card
• Get locked forex rates and no incurred forex charges on your card
• Funds are debited directly from FAB government accounts
• Make inquiries through the Mobile App
• For complete card management, get client access to the online portal
• You can make bulk reloads or individual reloads through the client portal
• Dedicated call centres will respond to your inquiries 24/7
• Get VISA Platinum Card benefits

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Al Ansari Exchange Visa Platinum TravelCard

The Al Ansari Exchange Visa Platinum TravelCard is offered by the Al Ansari Exchange, and it is touted among the best prepaid travel cards in the UAE.

Features and Benefits of Al Ansari Exchange Visa Platinum TravelCard

• Carry up to 23 currencies on one card
• The card is accepted at millions of merchants globally
• Get up to 5 supplementary cards for your family
• Enjoy a wide range of offers and experiences
• Access your digital card instantly via the app
• You can manage all your primary and supplementary cards on the app
• Get a chance to earn up to 1000+ reward points on your next card transaction

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ADCB Traveller Credit Card

The ADCB Traveller Credit Card is offered by the Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank. It has the most rewards and benefits among forex credit cards for travel in the UAE.

Features and Benefits of ADCB Traveller Credit Card

• The card has an annual fee of AED 1,575
• You can travel and earn up to AED 1,500 cashback every month
• Get 10% cashback on hotel stays
• Get 10% cashback on airline tickets
• Earn up to 7% cashback on Booking.com
• Enjoy international concierge services
• Get 20% off at Talabat food and grocery delivery
• Get a complimentary airport transfer with Careem
• You can avail a 50% cashback on movie tickets purchased online
• Receive 1.5% cashback on all domestic AED spends
• Get a hotel voucher worth AED 2,000 from Expedia.ae

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Forex Cards in UAE

The following conditions must be verified when you’re choosing a forex card in the UAE.

• Check whether the card supports one foreign currency or multiple currencies
• Compare the exchange rate offered by the Forex card with other card providers
• Check whether the Forex card charges additional fees for its services
• Check whether the Forex card enables you to get any complimentary benefits
• Check whether the Forex card is powered by VISA or MasterCard or not

Who Should Use Forex Cards When Travelling To / In the UAE?

Forex credit cards are useful for many types of travellers. Here are the groups that can benefit the most:

• Frequent Travellers

If you travel often, a forex card can save you time and money. You won’t need to exchange currency repeatedly, and you’ll enjoy stable, locked-in exchange rates throughout your trip.

• Students Studying Abroad

Students living overseas can use a forex card for everyday spending, tuition payments, and emergencies. Parents in the UAE can reload the card instantly whenever needed, making it a practical option for managing funds.

• Families on Holiday

For family vacations, forex credit cards offer convenience and control. You can request supplementary cards for family members and track all spending through one main account, helping you stay within your travel budget.

• Business Travellers

Business travellers can manage work-related expenses more easily with a forex card. It provides clear statements, stable exchange rates, and secure transactions, making it ideal for frequent corporate trips.

• Tourists Visiting the UAE

International travellers coming to the UAE can load their card with AED to avoid extra conversion charges. This makes paying for hotels, food, transport, and shopping much simpler during their stay.

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