The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) has been recognized with the prestigious “Best New Banknote Issue” award for 2025 in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region. This honor was announced during the “High Security Printing EMEA” conference, which took place in Basel, Switzerland, in early February 2025. The award celebrates the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and advanced security features in its new 500 Dirham banknote.
The newly awarded 500 Dirham note is part of the UAE’s third polymer series, which debuted in circulation on November 30, 2023. It incorporates state-of-the-art security technologies and three-dimensional designs, similar to the award-winning AED 1000 note from 2023. Notably, the banknote is the first in the Middle East to feature the region’s largest surface-applied foil stripe, setting a new standard in currency security.
A key element of the banknote’s design is its alignment with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future. The front of the note showcases the bold architecture of the Terra Sustainability Pavilion at Expo City Dubai, symbolizing the UAE’s commitment to sustainability and green development. On the reverse side, the Museum of the Future in Dubai is featured, representing the fusion of the past and future. Other landmarks, including Emirates Towers and the Burj Khalifa, further reinforce the UAE’s leadership in sustainable architecture and energy use.
CBUAE’s choice of polymer material for the banknote makes it not only more durable and longer-lasting but also fully recyclable, significantly reducing its environmental impact compared to traditional paper banknotes. This decision aligns with the country’s broader environmental goals and commitment to a green economy.
The new 500 Dirham note is also designed with inclusivity in mind. To assist blind and visually impaired users, the banknote features prominent Braille symbols, allowing all consumers to easily recognize and determine its value.
Saif Humaid Al Dhaheri, Assistant Governor for Banking Operations & Support Services at CBUAE and Chairman of Oumolat Security Printing Company, expressed pride in the achievement, saying, “This recognition reflects our unwavering dedication to sustainability and innovation. We are honored to lead the region in introducing advanced security features while minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring accessibility for all.”
This recognition underscores the UAE’s leadership in both financial and environmental sustainability, reinforcing its position at the forefront of modern banking and currency innovation.-WAM
