On Monday, March 24, 2025, the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) issued its new 100-dirham polymer banknote in conjunction with the Eid Al-Fitr celebrations.
Per the CBUAE's official press release, the design of the banknote uses innovative designs and advanced security features, in line with the UAE's leadership vision and reflecting the UAE's leadership in sustainability. The new 100-dirham banknote is part of the CBUAE's Third Issuance of the National Currency Project. Its design highlights the UAE's success story, featuring cultural and developmental symbols that illustrate the nation's journey to becoming a global economic and commercial hub, connecting continents.
The design of the new banknote is characterized by a distinctive aesthetic, employing various shades of red. To ensure public recognition, the CBUAE has maintained the color characteristics of the current denomination. Furthermore, the design incorporates the UAE nation brand with drawings and inscriptions created using advanced printing techniques.
The front of the new banknote features the Um Al Quwain National Fort, a historical and cultural monument. This fort was built in 1786 under the directives of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Majid Al Mualla, to protect the town and harbor and also as a center of governance and a residence for the ruling family. In 2000, it was restored and transformed into a national museum showcasing the ancient heritage and culture of the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain.
The reverse features the Port of Fujairah. It is the only multi-purpose seaport on the eastern coastline of the United Arab Emirates, strategically located just 70 nautical miles from the Strait of Hormuz. It provides essential access to worldwide trade and fulfills the marine requirements of the global shipping industry. Additionally, it showcases the Etihad Rail, a railway network that connects the seven Emirates and extends to the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The Etihad Rail plays a pivotal role in strengthening social ties and supporting sustainable economic development through its integrated infrastructure and logistics.
Security features include a red-to-purple SPARK Flow® DIMENSIONS feature of the denomination on the front and the multi-colored security chip technology known as KINEGRAM COLORS® (a security foil strip). The banknote contains two transparent windows, the one showing the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (1918-2004) and the other showing the watchtower at al-Hosn Palace (White Fort) in Abu Dhabi. The banknote measures 155 x 66 mm and was printed by Oumolat Security Printing on the Safeguard® polymer substrate.
