The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) reported that its AED 500 banknote has been awarded “Best New Banknote Issue for 2025” for the Europe, Middle East and Africa region, announced at the High Security Printing EMEA conference in Basel. The CBUAE attributed the recognition to the note’s latest technical specifications and advanced security features, including three-dimensional designs and security technologies previously used in the award-winning AED 1,000 note issued in 2023. It also described the AED 500 issue as making the UAE the first Middle East country to issue banknotes featuring the region’s largest surface-applied foil stripe. The note forms part of the third polymer series, was printed by CBUAE-owned Oumolat Security Printing, entered circulation on 30 November 2023, uses fully recyclable polymer substrate, and includes braille symbols to assist blind and visually impaired users.
Central Bank of the UAE 2025-02-20
Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates’ AED 500 note wins Best New Banknote Issue 2025 award for the EMEA region
The Central Bank of the UAE announced its AED 500 banknote won "Best New Banknote Issue for 2025" in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region at the High Security Printing EMEA conference. The note features advanced security technologies, including a large surface-applied foil stripe, and is part of the third polymer series printed by Oumolat Security Printing. It entered circulation on 30 November 2023 and includes braille symbols for accessibility.