Travelling aboard? 7 must-knows when using your UAE debit, credit card overseas

You can make purchases and withdraw cash with most UAE cards overseas

Last updated:
Justin Varghese, Your Money Editor
2 MIN READ
When travelling overseas, your UAE-issued debit or credit card is one of the safest ways to pay — and to withdraw cash. But keep these tips in mind..
When travelling overseas, your UAE-issued debit or credit card is one of the safest ways to pay — and to withdraw cash. But keep these tips in mind..
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Dubai: Travelling soon? Whether you’re planning a quick getaway to Georgia or a family holiday in London, your UAE-issued debit or credit card is one of the safest ways to pay — and to withdraw cash — while abroad.

Here’s what you should know to avoid fees, fraud, and finance-related hiccups on your trip:

1. Keep your UAE mobile number active

Your registered mobile number is the only way to receive SMS alerts for every transaction — crucial if someone tries to misuse your card. It also helps your bank verify that you’re the one using the card abroad. If your UAE SIM is switched off, you may miss fraud alerts or even get blocked from spending.

2. No need to notify your bank — just be reachable

Most major UAE banks (like Emirates NBD, ADCB, FAB) no longer require you to pre-inform them of your travel plans. But if your number isn’t working, your card may still be flagged for "suspicious activity" and blocked — especially in countries with high fraud rates.

3. Always pay in the local currency

When paying at restaurants, hotels, or shops abroad, you’ll often be asked whether to pay in AED or the local currency. Always pick the local currency. Paying in AED may trigger dynamic currency conversion (DCC), which often comes with hidden fees and poor exchange rates.

4. Know your balance before you go

Before heading out, log in to your mobile banking app to check balances and available credit limits. It’s a simple step that can prevent embarrassing payment declines — especially when hotel or car rental holds are involved.

5. Withdraw cash at local ATMs — but not too often

You can use your UAE debit or credit card to withdraw cash at ATMs abroad. But check your bank’s foreign ATM fee first — some charge up to Dh25–Dh30 per withdrawal, plus currency conversion fees. Pro tip: Withdraw a larger amount once instead of multiple smaller ones to cut costs.

6. Save emergency numbers for card issues

If your card is lost, stolen or blocked, you can request emergency cash or a card replacement. Save these numbers on your phone and a paper backup:

  • Visa cards: UAE toll-free 8000 021 > then 866 654 0112, or +1 303 967 1096 internationally

  • Mastercard: +1 800 627 8372 or collect call to +1 636 722 7111

7. Consider a travel-friendly card before your trip

Some UAE banks offer cards with better FX rates and no international fees — like the Emirates NBD GlobalCash Card or FAB’s Cashback Card. These can save you money if you travel frequently or spend a lot abroad.

Bottom line? Don’t rely on cash alone when travelling. Your UAE card is secure, widely accepted, and can even be your lifeline in a pinch. Just follow these steps, and your money will travel as smoothly as you do.

Justin Varghese
Justin VargheseYour Money Editor
Justin is a personal finance author and seasoned business journalist with over a decade of experience. He makes it his mission to break down complex financial topics and make them clear, relatable, and relevant—helping everyday readers navigate today’s economy with confidence. Before returning to his Middle Eastern roots, where he was born and raised, Justin worked as a Business Correspondent at Reuters, reporting on equities and economic trends across both the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.

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