UAE Dh500 Banknote Named Best New Issue for 2025 in EMEA

Central Bank’s Innovation Recognized at High Security Printing Conference

Abu Dhabi:

The Best New Banknote Issue for 2025 in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) area has been awarded to the Dh500 banknote issued by the UAE Central Bank. At the High Security Printing EMEA conference in Basel, Switzerland, the prize was presented, honoring the UAE’s dedication to cutting-edge security and environmentally friendly money design.

State-of-the-Art Security and Sustainable Design

The third polymer banknote series of the UAE is designed with cutting-edge security features that set new benchmarks in the region. This Dh500 note incorporates advanced anti-counterfeiting features to ensure longevity and security, drawing inspiration from the successful Dh1,000 banknote that was introduced in 2023.

The biggest surface-applied foil stripe on any Middle Eastern banknote is a significant innovation that improves both security and appearance by creating a three-dimensional visual impact.

Oumolat Security Printing, a fully owned subsidiary of the UAE Central Bank, produced this advanced note, which officially entered circulation on November 30, 2023.

A Tribute to UAE’s Sustainability and Architectural Excellence

The front of the banknote showcases the Terra Sustainability Pavilion from Expo City Dubai, symbolizing the UAE’s commitment to environmental consciousness.

The Burj Khalifa, a building that is primarily powered by solar energy, the Emirates Towers, and Dubai’s Museum of the Future are depicted on the note’s reverse side, further highlighting its sustainability theme.

This banknote’s polymer material, which further embraces eco-friendly concepts, is totally recyclable, prolongs its lifespan, and lessens its impact on the environment—all of which are in line with the UAE’s larger green economy agenda.

Enhanced Accessibility for All Users

The UAE’s banking sector continues to place a high priority on inclusivity. In keeping with the country’s dedication to accessibility, the Dh500 note features Braille symbols that make it simple for people who are blind or visually impaired to recognize and use the currency.

Leadership in Currency Innovation

Saif Humaid Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Oumolat Security Printing and Assistant Governor of Banking Operations and Support Services at the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates, emphasized the nation’s innovative position in currency technology:

“We take pride in being the first in the area to introduce banknotes made of environmentally friendly materials and cutting-edge security features. Through the inclusion of Braille symbols, our commitment to inclusivity guarantees that our currency is usable by everyone, even those who are blind or visually challenged..”

The UAE’s Dh500 banknote not only raises the standard for regional banknotes but also serves as a model for future sustainable innovations in currency.