currency exchange

A direct comparison of the six most-used currency exchange and remittance providers in the UAE — from Al Ansari's nationwide branch network to Wise's app-only mid-market rate. Branches, apps, fees, corridors, and when to use each.

BFC Exchange UAE is the UAE arm of Bahrain Financing Company — one of the oldest exchange houses in the Gulf, founded in 1917. With around 25 to 40 UAE branches, it offers a competitive, heritage-led alternative to the larger Al Ansari and LuLu networks, especially for the UAE-Bahrain corridor.

Unimoni is the UAE-licensed exchange house formed from the rebrand of UAE Exchange after the 2020 Finablr collapse. With around 150 branches nationwide, it offers remittance, foreign exchange, WPS payroll, and bill payments under tighter Central Bank oversight.

LuLu Exchange is the UAE-headquartered exchange and remittance arm of the LuLu International retail group, with 190+ branches across the country and a dense in-hypermarket footprint. Strong on Indian sub-continent corridors, the LuLu Money app, and one-stop convenience for shoppers.