US dollar surges to weekly high—key impact for UAE expats sending money home

Dubai: The US dollar hit a weekly high against most global currencies, offering a timely boost for UAE-based expats sending money back home.

The greenback’s recent surge, driven by easing concerns over Trump’s tariff policies and strong US payroll data, means better value for remitters converting dirhams into dollars or other foreign currencies.

The dollar climbed to its strongest point since late June, rising 0.5% against a basket of major currencies. This uplift was fueled by speculation that Trump’s trade tariffs will not significantly disrupt the US economy, lessening the need for aggressive interest-rate cuts.

For expats from India, the Philippines, Pakistan, and other nations in the Gulf, this news couldn’t come at a better time. (Check live forex rates here.)

The Indian rupee, for example, slipped from 23.24 to 23.40 against the UAE dirham during the day, marking a break from the tight range it has maintained over the past year. This slight dip means that Indian workers in the UAE can now get more rupees for every dirham sent.

Filipino expats are also benefiting as the Philippine peso remains weak against the dollar, hovering near its lowest levels in over a year. This translates into more Philippine pesos for every dollar sent home, providing a financial boost to families relying on overseas remittances.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan rupee remains stable at around 284 per dollar, despite broader geopolitical tensions, keeping remittance values steady for Pakistani workers in the UAE.

Currency analysts warn that volatility may continue, especially with ongoing tariff negotiations and geopolitical developments, but for now, the strong dollar offers a window of opportunity for UAE remitters. Those who send money regularly should keep an eye on exchange rates and consider timing transfers to maximize their returns.

As the dollar maintains its strength, remitters from the UAE could see their hard-earned dirhams stretch further for their families back home — a silver lining amid global economic uncertainties.