Dubai runs on cards more than most destinations, yet dirhams in the pocket still earn their place on every trip. Arrange your travel money before departure through a commission-free provider such as Travel FX and you cover the gaps the card leaves.
Taxis and abras across the creek, souk haggling for gold and spices, tips for porters and valets, and small purchases in older neighbourhoods all favour cash.
Card payments are universal in the malls, but the gold and spice souks remain negotiating territory where cash offers close deals. Sellers sharpen their prices noticeably when dirhams appear on the counter.
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