The Central Bank of the UAE launched a new banknote worth 50 dirhams on Tuesday, commemorating the 50th National Day. The issuance of the banknote honors the memory of the founding father of the nation, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and the first generation of UAE rulers. On this occasion, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Presidential Affairs, and Chairman of the Central Bank of the UAE, stated that the launch of the third issuance of the national currency in the denomination of fifty dirhams coincides with the UAE's celebrations of its golden jubilee of union, which was established on December 2, 1971, according to the Emirates News Agency.
The new issuance is the first banknote made from "polymer" materials to be circulated in the UAE. Sheikh Mansour added, "We see in this issuance the beginning of a new phase in the history of the UAE and a renewed era to continue the journey of economic and social growth."
The front side of the new banknote features an image of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan on the right, a commemorative picture of the founding fathers after signing the "Union Document" in the center, and an image of the Wahat Al Karama monument, which honors the martyrs of the UAE, on the left. The back of the banknote displays a picture of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan signing the "Union Document," along with an image of the Union Museum, where the union was established and the UAE flag was raised for the first time.
In line with its sustainability initiatives, the Central Bank is launching this new 50 dirham denomination as the first banknote made from "polymer," which is the best material for producing banknotes. Banknotes made from this material are more durable and sustainable than traditional paper currencies, lasting twice as long or more than cotton-made equivalents, and they can be fully recycled, contributing to efforts to reduce the environmental footprint.
The aesthetic features of this issuance are evident in the distinct design with varying shades of purple, blue "fluorescent markers" in the middle designed as the UAE's visual identity, and a mix of graphics and engravings made using advanced intaglio printing techniques. The Central Bank has also ensured the inclusion of notable symbols in Braille to assist visually impaired and blind users in identifying the value of the banknote.
The new 50 dirham banknote includes advanced security features, employing sophisticated printing technologies to enhance user confidence and combat counterfeiting. It is noteworthy that the new banknote will be available at Central Bank branches and ATMs in the near future, while the current 50 dirham banknote will remain in circulation as a legally guaranteed currency.
