In 1973, the UAE Currency Board issued the nation’s first banknotes. In 1982, the Central Bank of the UAE released a second issue of UAE paper currency, following the transition from the UAE Currency Board to the CBUAE, instituted by Union Law No. (10) of 1980.

As a result of this transition, the current CBUAE banknotes - which are familiar to us today - replaced the previous issue of UAE Currency Board notes.  

Alongside currency used for everyday transactions, the CBUAE also mints commemorative coins to celebrate the many highlights and achievements of the United Arab Emirates.  

Government entities, banks and the CBUAE are all entitled to request that an important occasion be marked by issuing a commemorative gold, silver or circulation coin.