Can I use the BigPay card in the United Arab Emirates in 2024?
If you’re planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates - or planning to move there to live, work or study - you’ve got an exciting time ahead. As the UAE Dirham (AED) is the official currency in the United Arab Emirates you’ll need to find convenient ways to spend in UAE Dirhams while you’re there.
This guide walks through how to use the BigPay card in the United Arab Emirates for convenient and secure transactions, and offers some handy hints about making your money go further when you’re abroad.
Can I use the BigPay card in the United Arab Emirates?
If you are a resident of Malaysia and have a BigPay card - or if you’re thinking of getting one - you’re probably wondering: can I use my BigPay card to pay for things in the United Arab Emirates?
The answer is yes, you can use the BigPay card for everyday spending in the United Arab Emirates. You can use the card to pay for things in UAE Dirhams with competitive exchange rates and low transaction fees. This guide walks through how you’ll be able to use your BigPay card to help manage your travel spending.
How to order a BigPay card
Getting your BigPay card in Malaysia is fairly simple, and the entire process can be done on your phone. Here’s how you can order your BigPay card:
Download the BigPay app from the App Store or Google Play Store, and sign up using your email address or mobile number.
Complete the registration by entering your personal details and verifying your identity. You’ll need to upload a photo of your IC or passport, along with a selfie for verification.
Once your identity is verified, top up your BigPay account using your preferred payment method.
Go to the Cards section in the app and select the option to order your BigPay card.
Confirm your shipping address, and your BigPay card will be sent to you by mail.
Can I get the BigPay card in the United Arab Emirates?
Unfortunately, the BigPay card is not yet available for residents of the United Arab Emirates. You may find that Wise is a better option for residents; check whether Wise is available below.
See alternatives to BigPayWhat happens if I move to the United Arab Emirates?
You can continue using your BigPay card until it expires, but you will not be issued a new card as BigPay does not offer the card in the United Arab Emirates. You may be able to continue using other services, offered by BigPay - we would recommend checking with their Customer Support team for more details.
An alternative to BigPay in the United Arab Emirates: Wise
Visa/Mastercard debit card
Mid-market exchange rate
40+ currencies- Spend in UAE Dirhams when visiting the United Arab Emirates ✅
- Not available to residents of the United Arab Emirates ❌
- Earn healthy interest rates on USD, EUR and GBP balances 💸
Hold and exchange 40+ currencies in your account and spend with your Wise card in 150+ countries globally. You’ll get the mid-market rate to convert currencies wherever you are in the world, with low fees - and some free ATM withdrawals every month, too.
Will my ATM card work in the United Arab Emirates?
While your ATM card will work in the United Arab Emirates it’s useful to know that cash will still be accepted by some shops and restaurants.
Cash is always useful to have, not just for paying the bill, but for tipping and gratuity as well.
Carrying a low cost ATM card when you’re in the United Arab Emirates is still a smart idea, so you can take out cash when you do find an ATM. You may also be able to use your card in larger hotels or restaurants, particularly in tourist areas.
However, keeping some cash on you at all times, as well as your card or cards is a smart plan, so you’re prepared no matter what happens.
How can I avoid ATM fees in the United Arab Emirates?
Don’t pay more than you need to when using an ATM. Here are some hints to avoid unexpected ATM fees in the United Arab Emirates:
Get a low cost ATM card which offers some free or cheap international withdrawals
Always pay in the local currency when you withdraw - this avoids additional charges and poor exchange rates offered by an ATM
Check if there’s a fixed cost per transaction for your ATM card. This might mean that making fewer, larger withdrawals is cheaper
Watch the ATM screen for warnings of extra fees the ATM operator may add - if there are going to be extra charges you may want to find an alternative terminal
Tips for saving on your travel budget for the United Arab Emirates
Make the most of your money so you can do more on your trip to the United Arab Emirates. Here are some travel budget tips:
Pay for your luggage when you book your flight - this is cheaper than at the airport
Don’t exchange currency at the airport or your hotel, as this is often the most expensive place
Always pay in the local currency
Keep a few different payment methods on you at any time, just in case you need a backup plan
Get a travel card which has good exchange rates and low or no cost ATM withdrawals overseas
What is the best currency to take to the United Arab Emirates?
The UAE Dirham (AED) is the official currency in the United Arab Emirates.
You can exchange your MYR before you leave Malaysia if you’d like - but bear in mind that you won’t be able to spend MYR in the United Arab Emirates. If you arrive with cash in your pocket you’ll need to exchange it locally, which may come with unexpected costs, and take time out of your trip unnecessarily.
A better plan for lots of people is to get a travel card for spending abroad, with low costs and secure transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The BigPay card will be OK for your trip to the United Arab Emirates. Use your BigPay card in the United Arab Emirates to get low cost currency conversion and cash withdrawals, and to keep your budget down overall.
Unfortunately, the BigPay card is not yet available for residents of the United Arab Emirates, so if you're planning on relocating you may need to consider alternatives.
Using the BigPay card when you’re spending overseas can mean you get a better exchange rate and lower overall costs. Explore your card’s features and fees carefully to make sure you can get the most of it when travelling abroad.
The delivery time for a travel card in Malaysia can vary a lot depending on the provider you pick. Get ready in advance so you’ve got your card in good time before your trip to the United Arab Emirates.
We retrieved Wise's and BigPay's card coverage from the following sources:
- Where can I use my Wise card? - Wise (checked 20/02/2024)
- Can I get the Wise card in my country? - Wise (checked 20/02/2024)
- Things you should know about using your BigPay card overseas. - BigPay (checked 12/08/2024)