How to Write Cheque Amount in Words in UAE: Essential Guide

Writing out cheque amounts in words in the UAE is straightforward once you know the simple rules. Just follow the standard format: write the whole number in words, add “and,” and then write the cent amount in words, usually as a fraction. This guide breaks down exactly how to do it correctly, ensuring your cheques are always accurate and accepted.

Navigating cheque payments can sometimes feel a little daunting, especially when you’re new to the process or the region. One common point of confusion? How exactly do you write the cheque amount in words in the UAE? It’s a crucial detail because an incorrectly written amount can lead to issues with the bank or even cause the cheque to be rejected. But don’t worry! It’s actually quite simple once you understand the standard convention used here, which is very similar to how it’s done in many other parts of the world. Think of this as your friendly guide to getting it just right, every time. We’ll walk through it step-by-step, making sure you feel confident and prepared.

Why Writing the Amount in Words Matters

You might wonder why you need to write the amount in words at all when the figures are already there in numbers. This dual representation serves a vital purpose: it acts as a safeguard against fraud and errors. The numerical amount can be easier to alter subtly than the written-out version. By having both, the bank can cross-reference and ensure the cheque’s intended value is clear and unambiguous. In the UAE, as elsewhere, adhering to this practice is essential for the validity of the cheque.

Understanding the Basic Structure

The core principle is to translate the numerical value of the cheque into its word form. This applies to both the main currency unit (like Dirhams) and any smaller denominations (like Fils).

The general format is:

[Whole number amount in words] and [Fils amount in words/fraction]

For example, if you’re writing a cheque for 150.50 AED, you would write it out as:

One Hundred and Fifty Dirhams and Fifty Fils

Or, often simplified:

One Hundred and Fifty Dirhams and 50/100

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Write Cheque Amounts in Words in the UAE

Let’s break down the process into manageable steps. We’ll cover different scenarios to ensure you’re covered.

Step 1: Identify the Currency

In the UAE, the primary currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). When writing the amount in words, you must include “Dirhams” after the word representation of the main amount. If there are any smaller denominations, you’ll specify “Fils” afterwards.

Step 2: Write the Whole Number (Dirhams) in Words

This is the most significant part of the cheque amount. You need to convert the entire number before the decimal point into its word form.

Number to Word Conversion Basics:

• Single Digits (1-9): One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine.
• Teens (10-19): Ten, Eleven, Twelve, Thirteen, Fourteen, Fifteen, Sixteen, Seventeen, Eighteen, Nineteen.
• Tens (20-90): Twenty, Thirty, Forty, Fifty, Sixty, Seventy, Eighty, Ninety.
• Hundreds: To write a number in the hundreds, you say the hundred digit, then “Hundred”. For example, 300 is “Three Hundred”.
• Thousands: For numbers in the thousands, you say the thousands digit(s) followed by “Thousand”. For example, 4,000 is “Four Thousand”.
• Combining Numbers: You combine these elements. For example:
  • 123: One Hundred and Twenty-Three
  • 5,456: Five Thousand, Four Hundred and Fifty-Six
  • 10,000: Ten Thousand
  • 100,000: One Hundred Thousand
  • 1,234,567: One Million, Two Hundred and Thirty-Four Thousand, Five Hundred and Sixty-Seven

Important Note on “And”:

In most conventions, including the UAE, the word “and” is used to connect the hundreds to the tens and units, or the thousands to the hundreds. For example, 520 is “Five Hundred and Twenty,” not “Five Hundred Twenty.”

Step 3: Write the Decimal Part (Fils) in Words or as a Fraction

The amount after the decimal point represents Fils. There are 100 Fils in 1 Dirham. You have two common ways to represent this:

Option A: Writing Fils in Words

Convert the number after the decimal point into words and add “Fils” at the end. This is often used for specific amounts.

• Example: 250.75 AED
• Dirhams part: Two Hundred and Fifty Dirhams
• Fils part: Seventy-Five Fils
• Full amount: Two Hundred and Fifty Dirhams and Seventy-Five Fils

Option B: Writing Fils as a Fraction (Most Common)

This is generally the preferred and most commonly used method in the UAE, as it’s concise and clear. You write the number of Fils as the numerator and “100” as the denominator, followed by “Fils” or “/100”.

• Example: 250.75 AED
• Dirhams part: Two Hundred and Fifty Dirhams
• Fils part: 75/100 (read as “seventy-five over one hundred” or simply “seventy-five”)
• Full amount: Two Hundred and Fifty Dirhams and 75/100

If the Fils amount is a single digit (e.g., 0.05), you would write it as 05/100. If it’s zero (e.g., 250.00), you can write “only” or “zero Fils” or simply omit this part.

Step 4: Add “Only” at the End (Recommended)

To further prevent any additions or alterations, it’s a good practice to add the word “Only” at the very end of the written amount. This signifies that the amount written is the complete and final sum.

Example: 150.50 AED written as:
One Hundred and Fifty Dirhams and 50/100 Only

Step 5: Draw a Line to Fill Remaining Space

After writing the amount in words, draw a line from the end of the written amount to the end of the designated space on the cheque. This prevents anyone from adding extra words or figures.

Examples for Clarity

Let’s look at a few more examples to solidify your understanding:

Numerical Amount (AED)	Amount in Words
50.00	Fifty Dirhams Only
1,000.00	One Thousand Dirhams Only
345.67	Three Hundred and Forty-Five Dirhams and 67/100 Only
12,500.25	Twelve Thousand, Five Hundred Dirhams and 25/100 Only
999.99	Nine Hundred and Ninety-Nine Dirhams and 99/100 Only
78.05	Seventy-Eight Dirhams and 05/100 Only
2,000,000.00	Two Million Dirhams Only

Special Considerations and Tips

Here are some extra tips to keep in mind:

• Consistency is Key: Always use the same method for writing Fils (either words or fraction) on a single cheque. The fractional method (e.g., 75/100) is most common and recommended for clarity.
• Zero Amounts: For cheques with no Fils (e.g., 50.00 AED), you can write “Fifty Dirhams Only” or “Fifty Dirhams and Zero Fils Only.” The former is more common.
• Large Amounts: For very large amounts, ensure you correctly use “Thousand,” “Million,” etc. For example, 1,500,000 would be “One Million, Five Hundred Thousand Dirhams Only.”
• Handwriting: Ensure your handwriting is clear and legible. If it’s difficult to read, it can cause issues.
• Using Cheque Writing Tools: Some banks offer online tools or guides on their websites that can help you format amounts correctly. It’s always a good idea to check your bank’s specific guidelines.
• Legal Weight: The written amount is legally considered the definitive amount if there’s a discrepancy between the numerical and written figures. This is why accuracy is paramount.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with clear instructions, small errors can happen. Here are common pitfalls:

• Missing “And”: Forgetting to include “and” when connecting hundreds to tens/units (e.g., “Five Hundred Twenty” instead of “Five Hundred and Twenty”).
• Incorrect Fils Representation: Writing “point seventy-five” instead of “75/100” or “Seventy-Five Fils.” While understandable, the fractional method is the standard.
• Omitting “Dirhams” or “Fils”: Forgetting to include the currency unit after the written amount.
• Leaving Space for Alteration: Not drawing a line to fill the remaining space after the written amount.
• Misspelling Numbers: Simple spelling errors in numbers can change the entire value. Double-check your spelling!

Where to Find Official Information

For the most authoritative information regarding cheque processing and regulations in the UAE, it’s always best to refer to official sources. The Central Bank of the UAE is the primary regulatory body.

You can find relevant information on:

• The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE): Their website often has regulations and guides related to banking and financial instruments. While they might not have a specific page detailing cheque writing, their general banking laws cover cheque validity. Visit CBUAE
• Your Bank: Most banks in the UAE provide specific guidelines and examples on their websites or through their customer service channels. They are your first point of contact for any practical questions about using their services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s address some common questions you might have:

Q1: What if I make a mistake while writing?

If you notice a mistake immediately after writing it, it’s best to cancel the cheque and write a new one. Do not try to erase or use correction fluid, as this can invalidate the cheque. If the mistake is discovered after signing, you may need to ask the bank for their specific procedure, but often, a new cheque is the safest route.

Q2: Can I write the amount in English and Arabic on the same cheque?

Typically, you only need to write the amount in one language (usually English, as per standard practice). If your bank requires both or has specific bilingual forms, follow their instructions. However, for most standard cheques, one language is sufficient.

Q3: What if the numerical amount and the written amount don’t match?

This is a critical issue. If there’s a discrepancy, the law generally considers the amount written in words as the correct one. This is why writing it accurately and clearly is so important. Banks are trained to spot these differences and may flag the cheque or refuse to process it.

Q4: How do I write a cheque for a round figure like 1000 AED?

For a round figure like 1000 AED, you would write: One Thousand Dirhams Only. If it’s 1000.00 AED, you can also write One Thousand Dirhams and 00/100 Only, though often just “One Thousand Dirhams Only” is perfectly acceptable and common.

Q5: What is the difference between Dirhams and Fils?

The Dirham (AED) is the main unit of currency in the UAE. The Fils are the smaller denomination, similar to cents in other currencies. There are 100 Fils in 1 Dirham. So, 0.50 AED is equal to 50 Fils.

Q6: Is it okay to use abbreviations like “Dhs.”?

While you might see abbreviations like “Dhs.” used informally, for the written amount on a cheque, it’s best to write out the full word “Dirhams.” Similarly, write out “Fils” or use the “/100” notation. Clarity and completeness are key for official documents like cheques.

Conclusion

Writing the cheque amount in words in the UAE is a fundamental skill that ensures your financial transactions are smooth and secure. By following the simple steps of writing the Dirhams in words, representing the Fils correctly (usually as a fraction), and adding “Only” at the end, you can confidently prepare any cheque. Remember that accuracy here isn’t just about following a rule; it’s about protecting yourself and ensuring clarity for the recipient and the bank. So, take a deep breath, follow this guide, and you’ll be writing cheque amounts like a pro in no time! If you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to consult your bank’s resources – they’re there to help.