In a groundbreaking move, the UAE has unveiled a fresh symbol for its national currency, the Dirham, designed to reflect both the nation’s rich heritage and its forward-thinking financial future. On Thursday, the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) revealed the new symbol, which will represent the Dirham in both physical and digital formats, highlighting the country’s commitment to innovation and global financial integration.

The new dirham symbol was carefully crafted from the English name of the currency, with two horizontal lines integrated into the design to represent stability—a key characteristic of the UAE’s dirham. These lines are inspired by the UAE flag, linking the symbol to the country’s national identity while embodying the values of financial strength and stability.

The digital version of the symbol includes a circle around the physical design, infused with the vibrant colors of the UAE flag. This digital adaptation not only represents the nation’s pride and patriotism but also signifies the UAE’s expanding global financial influence and its dedication to fostering a technologically advanced monetary ecosystem.

The new symbol seamlessly integrates the lines of the UAE flag into the letter “D” for Dirham, honoring the nation’s history while reimagining it in a modern context. The sleek, pointed curves in the design are reminiscent of classical Arabic calligraphy, such as the elegant Thuluth and Diwani scripts, which are known for their graceful, sweeping lines that evoke both authority and elegance.

Incorporating the UAE’s bold national colors, the symbol ensures immediate recognition across both physical and digital platforms. This blend of tradition and innovation allows the Dirham to present a dynamic, forward-looking image while staying rooted in the nation’s identity.

The unveiling of the new dirham symbol coincides with the UAE’s growing efforts to modernize its currency and financial infrastructure. As part of these efforts, the UAE has also introduced the concept of the Digital Dirham—a digital version of the national currency that will use blockchain technology to ensure secure and efficient transactions.

Set for release in the final quarter of 2025 for the retail sector, the Digital Dirham is designed to reduce transaction costs while enhancing security. Blockchain’s ability to provide effective risk management, data protection, and secure, instant transactions makes the Digital Dirham a significant step forward in the UAE’s financial evolution.