The new 50-dirham banknote pays tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the UAE’s founding fathers and the country’s first generation of rulers.

As the UAE completes 50 years of being, the country has been basking into merriments. To make the year even more remarkable and special, the UAE launched a brand new AED50 banknote, on Tuesday to celebrate the golden jubilee of the country.

The unveiling of the third issue of the note was attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

The new 50-dirham banknote pays tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the UAE’s founding fathers and the country’s first generation of rulers to commemorate their dedication and historical role of the union of the country.

The new note design has different shades of violet and fluorescent blue colours at the note’s centre, along with drawings and inscriptions.

The front of the new banknote features a portrait of the late Sheikh Zayed on the right, and a memorial picture of the founding fathers after signing the union document.

While the backside has a picture of the late Sheikh Zayed signing the union agreement as well as an illustration of the Etihad Museum — which witnessed the establishment of the union and the raising of the UAE flag for the first time.

What makes the note even more special is that it is the country’s first polymer banknote to be circulated. Polymer banknotes are said to be more durable and sustainable than traditional cotton paper banknotes. They last two or more times longer in circulation and can also be completely recycled.

The new note series will also include Braille symbols to help blind and visually-impaired consumers to identify the note.

While the new note will be available at Central Bank branches and ATMs soon, the current Dh50 note will also continue to be in circulation and accepted as currency.