I have never been a fan...the ratio of biscuit to chocolate/caramel was never quite right.

Rather than creating a new thread I thought I would just ask the question here. I need to change about £400 into Dirhams, just to have some cash for when I get there. Is it best to change in the UK or once in Dubai??

I don't know...

Put the cash card into ATM just before you leave Dubai airport. Tell the bank you are travelling though just in case.

So just take it out in Dirhams from the ATM once in Dubai?

If my UK bank is anything to go by if I use my uk cash card in uae I get charged about 40 quid, dont think there is a lot of difference in exchanging Uk currency for dhs in Uk or UAE, I would suggest better to bring some with you......ps worst rate as I am sure you know is at the airport itself

thanks Rowell! As its only £400 doesn't really matter if there is a bit of a difference in the rate!

I've had a think...

Just go to post office / smiths / m&s and change up the money before you come. That way you don't have to worry or think about it when you arrive.

Also, I gave Lloyds a heads up when I moved here because when I was on holiday here they blocked my card because they didn't think I was in Dubai.

Before I had an account here I did one of two things: use my Barclays cash card in the ATMs here, or went to Al Ansari Exchange (of which there are plenty, in AD at least) and got cash from my UK a/c (needed cash card and passport). Can't exactly remember, but pretty sure Al Ansari was the better deal, and never any hassles.

As advised by others, tell your (probably useless) bank that you'll be in UAE. You'll probably have to tell them several times, so might as well start now.

ps We had the first snow of the year last night, and the leaves are turning, so best bring that parka.

I have only pre-exchanged currency before arrival to one country as I was certain they wouldn't have an ATM - never had a problem and never paid more an a 2 quid on the UK card. HSBC UAE doesn't charge for withdrawals.

Don't use your credit card... now, that is costly.

thanks for the advice guys!

Bring the cash with you and change it here, you will get a much better rate than the UK. Dont do it at the airport either. If you do it in the UK you will get 5.5 at best but near 6 in any exchange in Dubai, and non charges

Was you a bit pissed and in SKi Dubai haha!

Further to this, why not change some in UK and some here...

What's the term used when you make the overall cost change when you've bought low and high?

The best way is to bring Sterling with you and change it at Dubai airport. If you try and get UAE Dirhams in the UK you'll be offered a lousy rate and the same if you use a UK debit card to withdraw Dirhams at an ATM.