Provider Review · UAE
Skrill UAE Review 2026
Skrill (formerly Moneybookers) is a UK-based digital wallet owned by Paysafe Group. Available in UAE. Known primarily as an e-wallet for online payments and gaming, but also used for international money transfers. FX margins are typically higher than Wise (1.45-3.99% depending on currency pair). This is an independent review with no payment from Skrill.
Skrill is better suited for digital payments than pure remittance from UAE. Its FX margin (1.45-3.99%) plus a send fee makes it more expensive than Wise or Remitly for most South Asia corridors. If you already use Skrill for online payments, it can work for occasional transfers. For regular remittance, compare alternatives first.
Skrill in the UAE — what to know
Skrill operates in the UAE via its EU regulatory licenses (UK FCA and EU passporting). It is not separately licensed by CBUAE as a money transfer operator. UAE residents can access Skrill via the app or website and link UAE bank accounts and cards for top-up and withdrawal.
Score Breakdown
Established brand, Paysafe-backed. Operates under EU regulation in UAE — not separately CBUAE-licensed.
High FX margin (1.45-3.99%), plus 1.45% send fee. More expensive than Wise for most UAE remittance corridors.
Good app, wide acceptance for online payments. Familiar interface for existing Skrill users.
Digital wallet transfers instant or within minutes. Bank withdrawals and transfers take 1-5 business days.
120+ countries supported. Good global coverage though not as wide as Paysend (170+).
Skrill UAE — pros and cons
- ✓Well-established digital wallet brand
- ✓Instant digital wallet-to-wallet transfers
- ✓Links to UAE bank accounts and cards
- ✓120+ destination countries
- ✓Good for online payments, not just remittance
- ✓Paysafe-backed — financially stable operator
- ✗High FX margin (1.45-3.99%) plus 1.45% fee
- ✗Not separately CBUAE-licensed
- ✗More expensive than Wise for remittance
- ✗Bank withdrawals take 1-5 business days
- ✗Not ideal for regular salary transfers
- ✗No cash pickup option
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Skrill to send money from UAE?↓
Yes, Skrill is available in UAE. However, Skrill operates primarily as a digital wallet under EU regulation — it's not separately CBUAE-licensed. For sending money to India, Pakistan, or Philippines from UAE, providers like Wise or Remitly typically offer better exchange rates and lower total costs.
What are Skrill fees for UAE transfers?↓
Skrill typically charges a 1.45% fee to send money plus an FX margin of 1.45-3.99% depending on the currency pair. This makes Skrill more expensive than Wise (0.4-0.5% margin) for most UAE remittance corridors. Skrill is competitive for digital payments and e-commerce use cases.
Is Skrill good for AED to INR transfers?↓
Skrill supports AED to INR transfers but with higher margins than dedicated remittance apps. For regular salary remittance from UAE to India, Wise, Remitly, or Al Ansari Exchange will typically give you a better rate. Skrill is better suited for digital wallet use and online payments.
Does Skrill work with UAE banks?↓
Yes. You can link UAE bank accounts and cards to Skrill. Top-up and withdrawal from UAE banks is supported. Processing times vary — card top-up is instant, bank transfers take 1-5 business days.