How the real cost is worked out
Every transfer has two costs: the fee you see, and the rate margin you often don’t – the gap between the provider’s rate and the mid-market rate. The calculator converts that gap back into dirhams and adds the fee, so you can compare providers on one number.
Example
You send AED 2,000 to India. Provider A charges AED 15 and gives a rate 0.5% below mid-market; provider B charges nothing but gives a rate 1.5% lower. Provider A costs about AED 25 in total, while provider B costs about AED 30 – the “free” transfer is the more expensive one.
Tips for cheaper transfers
- Check the rate in the app on the day you send; it changes during the day.
- Send larger amounts less often to save on fixed fees.
- Watch out for fees charged by the receiving bank, especially for transfers to the UK, US and Europe.
- Use licensed exchange houses, banks or apps regulated by the UAE Central Bank.
Today’s rates
AED to INR (Indian Rupee) · AED to PKR (Pakistani Rupee) · AED to PHP (Philippine Peso) · AED to BDT (Bangladeshi Taka) · AED to NPR (Nepalese Rupee) · AED to LKR (Sri Lankan Rupee) · AED to EGP (Egyptian Pound) · All AED exchange rates
Frequently asked questions
What is the mid-market rate?
It is the midpoint between the buying and selling price of a currency on the global market – the “real” rate you see on Google or XE. Exchange houses, banks and apps give you a slightly lower rate and keep the difference as profit, on top of any transfer fee.
How do I find the cheapest way to send money from the UAE?
Compare what your family actually receives, not just the fee. A “zero fee” transfer with a poor rate can cost more than one with a AED 15 fee and a better rate. Enter each provider’s fee and rate in the calculator and it shows the real cost of each.
Is it cheaper to send larger amounts?
Usually, yes. Fees are often fixed per transfer, so sending AED 5,000 once costs less than sending AED 1,000 five times. Some providers also give a better rate for larger amounts.
When is the best time to send money home?
Rates move every day, so there is no reliable best day. Many people send right after salary day; checking the chart on our currency pages can help you avoid sending on a day when your currency is unusually strong.
Last reviewed: October 2026