Top 5 Best Apps For Sending Money to Dubai in 2025

Dubai is the expat capital of the world, with over 85% of the people living there being foreigners. That’s what makes it such a vibrant, multicultural city. It’s not just about the lifestyle either; Dubai consistently ranks as one of the best places for expats to live and work, offering opportunities, comfort, and a welcoming vibe.

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 With thousands of people from across the world moving there, from Nigerians to Ghanaians, Americans and more, moving there for work, business, and family, cross-border payments are a daily reality. From sending money back home to receiving payments for trade to paying school or hospital bills, the ability to move money in and out of Dubai quickly and affordably is essential.

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In 2025, digital wallets and remittance apps have transformed the way people move money. Banks are no longer the only option; now, with just a smartphone, you can transfer money to Dubai in minutes. But which apps are worth using?

Here’s a breakdown of the 5 best apps for sending money to Dubai in 2025, comparing their fees, speed, accessibility, and unique features.

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1. Pesa

If you’re looking for a modern solution designed for global users with strong Africa–Dubai corridors, Pesa is a standout.

• Availability: Pesa is accessible in over 40 countries. With its AED wallet, users can send and receive money directly in dirhams without worrying about double conversions. This makes it especially valuable for expats and business owners who regularly transact with the UAE.
  
  
• Transfer speed: Transfers are typically instant to a few hours, depending on the payment method.
  
  
• Rates and fees: Pesa prides itself on transparent and competitive exchange rates, often more affordable than banks and traditional operators. Low fees make it a cost-effective choice.
  
  
• Ease of use: The app is user-friendly, supporting multiple currencies. Setup is simple, and users can manage both local and international transfers with ease.
  
  
• Best for: Expats from Africa and beyond who need reliable, affordable ways to move money to or from Dubai.

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is one of the most trusted names in the global money transfer space, thanks to its real mid-market exchange rates.

• Availability: Works in over 160 countries, but is not available for senders in Nigeria, which can be a limitation for some users.
  
  
• Transfer speed: Typically, same-day or next-day delivery to UAE bank accounts.
  
  
• Rates and fees: Wise is famous for its low, transparent fees and use of the real exchange rate without hidden markups.
  
  
• Ease of use: Clean, intuitive app. However, it requires a linked bank account or card, which may not be as flexible for unbanked senders.
  
  
• Best for: Users outside of Nigeria who prioritise transparency and want to avoid hidden costs.
  
  

3. Remitly

Remitly focuses heavily on remittances for families and migrant workers.

• Availability: You can only send from Dubai with Remitly, not to Dubai. This makes it useful for UAE-based expats sending money home, but not for sending money from home.
  
  
• Transfer speed: Economy transfers take 3–5 business days, while express transfers (via debit/credit card) arrive within minutes.
  
  
• Rates and fees: Fees vary by destination and delivery speed. Express transfers are more expensive, but competitive compared to banks.
  
  
• Ease of use: Straightforward app with multiple payout methods—bank deposit, mobile wallet, or cash pickup.
  
  
• Best for: Expats in Dubai who want to quickly send money back home, especially to Asia and Africa.
  
  

4. WorldRemit

WorldRemit is another well-known remittance service that covers a wide range of payout options.

• Availability: Supports sending money from 50+ countries to 130+ destinations, including Dubai.
  
  
• Transfer speed: Instant transfers for mobile wallets and airtime top-ups; bank deposits may take a few hours.
  
  
• Rates and fees: Fees vary by corridor but are usually lower than those of banks. Exchange rates include a small markup.
  
  
• Ease of use: Effortless to navigate with multiple payout options like cash pickup, bank deposit, and mobile wallet.
  
  
• Best for: Those who want flexibility in how recipients receive money in Dubai.
  
  

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5. PayPal/Xoom

Xoom, a PayPal service, allows users to send money internationally, including to Dubai.

• Availability: Works from most countries, but fees can be higher compared to newer fintech apps.
  
  
• Transfer speed: Transfers to UAE bank accounts are usually same-day, but card-based transfers can be faster.
  
  
• Rates and fees: Higher fees than Pesa, Wise, or WorldRemit. Exchange rates also include a margin.
  
  
• Ease of use: Convenient for people who already use PayPal, though less cost-effective.
  
  
• Best for: Users who prioritise convenience and PayPal integration over saving on fees.
  
  

So which should you pick?

The best app for sending money to Dubai in 2025 depends on your needs:

• For affordability and Africa–Dubai corridors → Pesa
  
  
• For transparency (outside Nigeria) → Wise
  
  
• For UAE-based senders supporting family back home → Remitly
  
  
• For payout flexibility → WorldRemit
  
  
• For PayPal users → Xoom
  
  

If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable, and globally accessible option, Pesa’s AED wallet makes it a top choice for 2025.