How to Send Money to the UAE from Canada?

The economic bridge between Canada and the United Arab Emirates is stronger than ever. With thriving trade, growing expat communities, and Canadians increasingly investing in property or education in the UAE, cross-border money transfers are becoming routine. But despite the growing need, figuring out how to send money from Canada to the UAE without losing value along the way remains a challenge. From weak CAD to AED exchange rates at major banks to transfer delays and steep hidden fees, many Canadians end up paying more than they should.

The good news? You don’t have to. This guide explores the cheapest way to send money from Canada to the UAE, how to get better rates when converting CAD to AED, and why smart money movers are turning to specialized foreign exchange providers like MTFX for speed, security, and savings. If you’re comparing options, questioning the cost to send money from Canada to the UAE, or simply want more transparency in the process, you’re in the right place.

Can you send money from Canada to the UAE?

Yes. You can legally and securely send money from Canada to the UAE through a variety of channels, including major banks, wire transfer services, and regulated foreign exchange providers like MTFX. The method you choose will determine how much you pay in fees, how long the transfer takes, and how competitive your CAD to AED exchange rate is.

Most banks offer international wire transfers, but they tend to charge higher fees and apply less favourable exchange rates. On the other hand, online FX platforms like MTFX provide access to better-than-bank CAD to AED rates, faster delivery times, and lower overall transfer costs, especially when you're sending larger amounts to a UAE bank account.

It’s important to note that the AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham) is a currency pegged to the U.S. dollar. This peg influences the CAD to AED exchange rate and adds predictability, but it also means that timing your transfer strategically can help you save even more.

What’s the best way to send money from Canada to the UAE?

The best way to send money to the UAE from Canada depends on what matters most to you; speed, cost, exchange rate, or convenience. But if you're aiming for a combination of all four, a regulated online foreign exchange provider like MTFX is typically the most efficient and cost-effective solution.

Banks vs. FX specialists: what’s the real difference?

While Canadian banks offer international wire transfers to the UAE, they often apply a significant markup on the CAD to AED exchange rate and charge flat fees that can exceed $50 per transaction. Add to that potential intermediary bank deductions in the SWIFT network, and your recipient in Dubai or Abu Dhabi may receive considerably less than you intended.

By contrast, MTFX offers real-time CAD to AED rates with transparent, low fees and no surprise charges. You can send funds directly to UAE bank accounts, personal or business, at your convenience, with 24/7 access to your online dashboard.

Since the AED is pegged to the U.S. dollar, the CAD to AED rate often mirrors the CAD to USD movement. That means watching the Canadian dollar’s performance against the USD can help you plan your transfer when the rates are more favourable. For real-time currency insights, you can also use MTFX’s Live Exchange Rate Tool to monitor trends and set rate alerts.

How to send money to the UAE with MTFX?

Using MTFX to transfer money from Canada to a UAE bank account is simple, secure, and designed to give you more value on every dollar. Whether you're sending funds for personal reasons or business purposes, the process is fast and fully digital without any branch visits or paperwork required.

Step 1: Create your free MTFX account

Start by registering online. The process takes just a few minutes and is completely free. As a FINTRAC-regulated entity, MTFX ensures compliance with Canadian financial regulations while protecting your data and funds.

Step 2: Verify your identity

To meet compliance standards and prevent fraud, you’ll need to upload valid identification, typically a passport or driver’s license, along with proof of address. This one-time verification unlocks full access to your account.

Step 3: Enter recipient details in the UAE

You’ll be prompted to enter your recipient’s bank details in the UAE. This includes:

• Full name as it appears on the account
• UAE IBAN number
• SWIFT/BIC code
• Name of the receiving bank

Whether you’re sending money to a personal bank account in Dubai or paying a business invoice in Abu Dhabi, MTFX can process transfers to any major financial institution in the Emirates.

Step 4: Fund your transfer

Add funds in Canadian dollars via direct debit (EFT), wire transfer, or bill payment through your Canadian bank account. MTFX will then convert CAD to AED at a live market rate, ensuring you get maximum value.

Step 5: Review and confirm

Before sending, you’ll see:

• The exact amount the recipient will receive in AED
• The applicable CAD to AED exchange rate
• Any transfer fees (if applicable)

Once you confirm, MTFX processes your payment and sends you a confirmation receipt with tracking details.

Step 6: Delivery to the UAE bank account

MTFX typically delivers funds within 24–48 business hours, depending on the time of day and the receiving bank in the UAE. You can track your transfer status from your dashboard anytime.

Why do Canadians send money to the UAE?

Sending money from Canada to the UAE isn’t just about convenience. It’s often tied to real financial goals and personal milestones. Here are some of the most common reasons Canadians transfer funds to the Emirates, and why choosing the right method can make a difference.

1. Investing in property in Dubai or Abu Dhabi

With Dubai’s real estate market attracting global buyers, many Canadians are purchasing investment properties or second homes in the UAE. These high-value transfers benefit significantly from favourable CAD to AED exchange rates and low transfer fees, especially when processed through a foreign exchange provider rather than a traditional bank.

2. Paying tuition for international students

Canadian families often send funds to children studying at UAE-based institutions like the American University of Sharjah or Khalifa University. MTFX supports tuition payments in AED, offering tailored solutions for education-related transfers that include speed, security, and compliance with institutional payment requirements.

3. Supporting family or dependents abroad

Remittances remain a major driver of money transfers. Whether it’s a monthly allowance for relatives or covering emergency expenses, using a service like MTFX means more AED reaches your loved ones, thanks to stronger exchange rates and lower fees.

CAD to AED exchange rate: what affects your transfer value?

Before you send money to the UAE from Canada, it’s essential to understand how the CAD to AED exchange rate works—and what factors can impact it. After all, even a small shift in the rate can make a noticeable difference in how much your recipient receives.

Is the AED a stable currency?

Yes. The UAE Dirham (AED) is one of the world’s most stable currencies, thanks to its fixed peg to the US dollar. This means 1 USD is consistently worth approximately 3.6725 AED. However, because the Canadian dollar (CAD) floats freely, its value relative to the USD, and therefore to the AED, can fluctuate daily. So when you’re looking at 1 CAD to AED, what you’re really seeing is how CAD performs against the USD. Economic factors like the following can all influence the rate.

• Bank of Canada interest rate decisions
• Oil prices (both Canada and the UAE are major producers)
• Global risk sentiment
• Domestic economic data releases
• US monetary policy and data releases

How to get the best CAD to AED rate?

Banks often apply a margin of 2–5% on top of the mid-market rate. That means if the real market rate is 2.70 AED for 1 CAD, a bank might offer you just 2.58, and keep the difference as profit. With MTFX, you get access to live mid-market rates and transparent pricing, so more of your money ends up where it belongs. You can also set rate alerts to monitor fluctuations and time your transfer when conditions are most favourable.

Hidden costs to watch out for when sending money to the UAE

On the surface, international money transfers might seem straightforward. But many Canadians are surprised to find out just how much is lost to hidden fees and poor exchange rates, especially when using banks or traditional wire services to send money to the UAE. Here are the most common costs to watch out for:

1. Bank exchange rate markups

Most banks don’t use the real-time mid-market CAD to AED rate. Instead, they apply a markup, sometimes as high as 4–5%, to increase their profit margin. That means you get a worse rate and your recipient receives less AED. With MTFX, you get near real-time market rates, so your money goes further.

2. Transfer fees

International wire transfers can cost anywhere from $30 to $75 per transaction, depending on the bank. These fees are often non-negotiable, regardless of the amount being sent. With MTFX, fees are either reduced or waived based on volume and frequency, making large or recurring transfers much more cost-efficient.

3. Intermediary bank deductions

If your money passes through one or more intermediary banks in the SWIFT network, they can deduct fees en route without notifying you. This often happens with transfers to the UAE and can reduce the final amount received. Using MTFX means your funds are routed through optimized, secure channels to minimize intermediary involvement and increase delivery accuracy.

4. Currency conversion charges on credit cards

While using a credit card or digital wallet may seem convenient, these services often tack on a foreign currency conversion fee, usually 2.5–3.5% and apply unfavourable exchange rates. These hidden charges add up fast, especially for high-value transfers. MTFX gives you control over when and how your currency is converted, with no surprise markups.

Compliance and safety: how to send money to the UAE securely

When sending money internationally, especially large sums for real estate, tuition, or business, you need confidence that your funds are handled with care, security, and full regulatory oversight. Here’s what you need to know about staying compliant and safe when sending money to the UAE from Canada.

MTFX is regulated by FINTRAC

As a FINTRAC-registered and regulated money services business (MSB) in Canada, MTFX follows strict anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) protocols. This ensures every transfer is traceable, secure, and compliant with both Canadian and UAE financial regulations.

Your money is held in segregated client accounts

MTFX does not co-mingle client funds with operational accounts. Your money is held in secure, segregated accounts at Tier 1 Canadian financial institutions, offering the same level of fund protection as traditional banks.

Encrypted transactions and digital tracking

All transfers initiated via the MTFX online platform are encrypted and processed through secure, institution-grade payment gateways. You’ll receive a transaction confirmation, along with tools to track your transfer until it lands in the recipient’s UAE bank account.

UAE banking compliance

Funds sent through MTFX are delivered to licensed, regulated banks in the UAE. The recipient must meet local banking requirements, but no additional licensing or approvals are needed on the sender’s end, especially when dealing with common remittance amounts or business payments.

Smarter international transfers to the UAE start here

Sending money to the UAE from Canada doesn’t have to be expensive, complicated, or time-consuming. With the right partner, you can enjoy faster transfers, better CAD to AED exchange rates, and peace of mind knowing your funds are secure and compliant every step of the way.

Whether you're paying for tuition, supporting loved ones, investing in property, or growing your international business, MTFX gives you a smarter, more transparent way to move your money. You’ll save more, transfer faster, and stay in control—all from the comfort of your device.

Ready to make your first transfer? Open your free MTFX account today and start sending money to the UAE with better rates and fewer surprises.

FAQs

1. How do I send money from Canada to a UAE bank account?

You can send money to the UAE from Canada using a regulated online FX provider like MTFX. The process involves registering an account, verifying your identity, entering recipient details, and funding your transfer. Delivery typically takes 1–2 business days.

2. What is the cheapest way to send money from Canada to the UAE?

The cheapest way to send money from Canada to the UAE is through a low-fee, high-volume foreign exchange platform like MTFX, which offers competitive CAD to AED exchange rates and avoids hidden fees charged by banks and wire services.

3. How long does it take to transfer money from Canada to the UAE?

MTFX typically delivers funds to UAE bank accounts within 24–48 hours, depending on the time of day and banking hours in both countries.

4. What is the current CAD to AED exchange rate?

The CAD to AED exchange rate fluctuates daily based on market conditions. You can check the live rate using the MTFX Exchange Rate Tool.

5. Is it safe to send money to the UAE from Canada?

Yes. When you use a FINTRAC-regulated provider like MTFX, your transfer is encrypted, compliant with anti-money laundering laws, and delivered through secure banking channels in both Canada and the UAE.

6. Can I send money to Dubai from Canada online using MTFX?

Absolutely. MTFX supports direct online payments to personal and business bank accounts in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Emirates, with optimized delivery routes and low costs.

7. Are there limits on how much I can send to the UAE?

MTFX allows you to send small remittances or large lump sums, with customizable limits depending on your verification level. For larger transactions (e.g., real estate), additional documentation may be required to comply with AML rules.

8. Can I convert CAD to AED before transferring?

Yes. MTFX allows you to lock in favourable CAD to AED rates before initiating a transfer, so you know exactly how much AED your recipient will receive.

9. What is the cost to send money from Canada to the UAE?

Fees vary based on the provider. With MTFX, fees are transparent and often waived for large or recurring transfers, unlike banks, which may charge $30–$75 per transaction plus FX margin markups.

10. Which is better: sending money through a Canadian bank or MTFX?

MTFX is typically better for FX transfers to the UAE due to real-time exchange rates, lower fees, and faster delivery. Banks often charge more and apply less favourable CAD to AED rates.