Dirham gains on rupee, peso weakness: Should expats remit now?

28/09/2026 04:33 AST

Expats in the UAE are still getting a boost from weak Asian currencies, as each dirham converts into more when sent home. The Indian rupee, Philippine peso and Pakistani rupee are all trading near multi-year lows.

The Indian rupee has succumbed to more weakness opening this week at ?26.13 levels against the dirham, gaining a little compared to its previous close. Exchange houses report that a number of families are dividing their remittances, sending a portion now while keeping the remainder back in anticipation of further rate movements.

Peso gains slightly
The Philippine peso (PHP) has dropped below Dh17 again trading at Dh16.96. Changes in oil prices impact the local currency because the Philippines imports most of its oil. Expectations that the US Federal Reserve may keep rates high have strengthened the US dollar.

For now, favourable rates are prompting households to reassess strategy, deciding whether to lock in current levels or wait for another shift in the market.

Current exchange rates as of 08:15 am on September 28:

Indian rupee: 26.13, slightly stronger compared to yesterday.

Pakistani rupee: 75.62, unchanged from yesterday's levels.

Philippine peso: 16.96 slightly stronger from yesterday's 17.01.

Gulfnews