UAE dirham symbol approved for keyboards, coming September 2026

The Unicode Consortium has approved the UAE dirham symbol for encoding in Unicode version 18.0, set for publication in September 2026. As reported by The National News, the California-based authority responsible for standardising digital characters warns that device manufacturers may take time to implement the new symbol across keyboards and smartphones.

What does Unicode approval mean for UAE users?

The Unicode Consortium's approval marks a significant milestone for the UAE's digital financial infrastructure. According to the organisation, the introduction of a new currency symbol represents a "significant milestone for financial and commercial activity in their domain."

The approval means that device manufacturers such as Apple, Google, Samsung, and Microsoft can now integrate the dirham symbol into their keyboard layouts. However, Unicode cautions that adoption isn't automatic. "For many devices, including some mobile phones, many vendors do not routinely provide updates, or discontinue providing updates on older devices," the consortium noted.

The timing aligns with the UAE's broader push to strengthen its position as a global financial hub, with initiatives like the Central Bank's AI finance venture demonstrating the Emirates' commitment to digital payment innovation.

How will the dirham symbol appear on keyboards?

The Central Bank of the UAE has provided specific guidance on keyboard placement. According to their 2025 style guidelines, "the currency symbol is designated to appear on the number 6 key across all keyboard layouts."

The physical dirham symbol represents the stability of the Emirati currency whilst paying homage to the UAE's flag. For digital applications, the Central Bank also unveiled a separate digital dirham symbol that "features a circle surrounding the physical currency symbol, using the colours of the UAE flag to reflect pride and national identity."

Ultimately, individual device manufacturers will decide the exact implementation across different keyboard layouts sold globally. The Unicode approval simply provides the standardised foundation for consistent implementation.

What else is coming in Unicode 18.0?

Beyond the UAE dirham, Unicode version 18.0 will include support for 13,048 new characters. The Omani rial symbol has also received approval alongside the UAE dirham, reflecting broader GCC digital currency initiatives.

The update will introduce new scripts and alphabets, including Chisoi, described by Unicode as "a modern script used in eastern India." This demonstrates the consortium's ongoing efforts to standardise global writing systems for the digital age.

The consortium emphasised its commitment to working with monetary authorities, stating it is "honoured to work with monetary authorities, and would like to help make the launch of a new symbol as smooth as possible."

When will UAE residents see the symbol on their devices?

Unicode 18.0 is scheduled for publication in September 2026, but this doesn't guarantee immediate availability on consumer devices. The implementation timeline varies significantly between manufacturers and device types.

Smartphones typically receive faster updates through regular operating system releases, whilst older devices or those from manufacturers with limited update policies may never receive the new symbol. Computer keyboards, particularly physical ones, face even longer replacement cycles.

The Central Bank first unveiled the dirham symbol in March 2025 as part of efforts to strengthen the Emirates' position as a leading global financial hub. The Unicode approval represents the next crucial step in making this vision a reality for everyday digital transactions.

Implementation timeline and availability

Unicode 18.0 publication: September 2026
Device manufacturer implementation: Timeline varies by company and device type
Keyboard placement: Number 6 key (as recommended by Central Bank UAE)
Scope: Global standardisation across all Unicode-supporting devices and platforms

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the UAE dirham symbol appear on keyboards?

The UAE dirham symbol is approved for Unicode version 18.0, scheduled for publication in September 2026. Device manufacturers will then begin implementing it, though this process may take varying amounts of time depending on the manufacturer and device type.

Who approved the UAE dirham symbol for digital use?

The Unicode Consortium, the California-based authority responsible for standardising digital characters across billions of devices worldwide, approved the UAE dirham symbol for encoding in Unicode 18.0.

What does the digital dirham symbol look like?

The digital dirham symbol features a circle surrounding the physical currency symbol, incorporating the colours of the UAE flag to reflect national pride and identity, according to the Central Bank of the UAE.

Will the Omani rial symbol also be available?

Yes, the Omani rial symbol has also been approved for encoding in Unicode version 18.0 alongside the UAE dirham symbol, demonstrating broader GCC currency standardisation efforts.

Where will the dirham symbol appear on keyboards?

According to the Central Bank of the UAE's style guidelines, the currency symbol is designated to appear on the number 6 key across all keyboard layouts, though final implementation decisions rest with individual device manufacturers.

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