Can a foreign UnionPay bank card still be used in Abu Dhabi after recent sanctions?
Based on 2 discussions with 3 participants · Last activity: 16 days ago
TL;DR
The messages contain no confirmed recent report that RSHB UnionPay works in Abu Dhabi. Do not rely on it as your only payment method: UnionPay acceptance in the UAE is inconsistent, so carry a backup card or cash in AED.
What the community said
As of 3 August, travelers were still asking whether RSHB UnionPay transactions were going through after sanctions, with no confirmed successful Abu Dhabi payment reported. Test it with a small purchase before relying on it for major expenses.
17 days ago RSHB UnionPay
Even if the card works in one shop, it may fail elsewhere because the individual terminal must support UnionPay. Keep some AED cash for taxis, small cafés, and any terminal that declines the card.
17 days ago AED cash
The 27 July query likewise had no confirmation that RSHB cards were working after the latest sanctions update. Arrange an alternative payment method before flying rather than depending on UnionPay cash withdrawals after arrival.
24 days ago Backup payment method