The Best Way to Send Money from UAE to Nigeria – Save Time & Fees
LC Editorial • Money Transfer Guide
Sending money from the UAE to Nigeria is a common need for many expatriates, businesses, and families. Whether you’re supporting loved ones, paying for services, or handling business transactions, finding the right money transfer service is crucial.
However, with so many options available, choosing the best method can be overwhelming. Hidden fees, fluctuating exchange rates, and varying transfer speeds can make the process confusing and expensive. That’s where LeoCompare comes in.
We simplify the process by comparing trusted money transfer services, helping you find the most affordable, fastest, and most secure way to send money from UAE to Nigeria.
Why You Should Compare Money Transfer Services Before Sending to Nigeria
Many people make the mistake of using the first provider they find to send money from UAE to Nigeria—only to realise later that they paid unnecessary fees or got a poor exchange rate. Comparing services is the key to saving both money and time.
Save Money on Fees
Different providers charge different fees. Some have low upfront costs but make up for it with poor exchange rates. Others may have slightly higher fees but offer better overall value. By comparing, you can find the cheapest and most reliable option.
Get the Best Exchange Rate
The exchange rate directly impacts how much your recipient gets in Naira. Even a small difference can mean losing hundreds or thousands of Naira. Always check real-time rates before you send money from UAE to Nigeria.
Faster Transfers
Some services deliver money in minutes, while others may take days. If your recipient needs funds urgently, speed is a critical factor when choosing how to send money from UAE to Nigeria.
Avoid Hidden Charges
Beware of extra costs that many users overlook, such as:
Intermediary Bank Fees
When money passes through multiple banks before reaching Nigeria, each bank in the chain may deduct a service fee. This reduces the final amount your recipient receives, even if you already paid transfer charges.Receiving Fees
Some Nigerian banks charge a receiving fee when the funds arrive. This means the recipient doesn’t get the full amount you sent. Policies differ between banks, so the final cost can be unpredictable.Payment Method Fees
How you pay for your transfer affects the cost. Credit card and debit card payments usually carry higher charges compared to bank account transfers. Some platforms also charge extra for cash pickup services.
Top Money Transfer Services from UAE to Nigeria
Most Trusted and Cost-Effective Ways to Send Money to Nigeria from UAE
Beyon Money
Best for: Competitive exchange rates & fast transfers
Fees: Low, transparent pricing
Transfer Speed: Usually within 24 hours
Why Use It? No hidden fees, reliable service
Careem Pay
Best for: Instant transfers via mobile app
Fees: Low fees, occasional promotions
Transfer Speed: Minutes for cash pickup
Why Use It? Great for urgent transfers
Emirates NBD
Best for: Large bank transfers
Fees: Moderate, varies by transfer size
Transfer Speed: 1–3 business days
Why Use It? Secure and trusted for big transactions
Lulu Money
Best for: Low-cost remittances
Fees: Affordable, especially for frequent senders
Transfer Speed: Same-day or next-day
Why Use It? Good exchange rates, multiple payout options
Al Ansari Exchange
Best for: Same-day cash transfers
Fees: Competitive, no surprises
Transfer Speed: Often within hours
Why Use It? One of the most popular exchange houses
Western Union
Best for: Cash pickup across Nigeria
Fees: Can be higher, but very fast
Transfer Speed: Minutes for cash pickup
Why Use It? Widest network for instant access
Each service has its strengths depending on your needs. Use LeoCompare to compare exchange rates, fees, and speed instantly — and choose the option that works best for you.
How to Avoid High Fees When Sending Money to Nigeria
Many people lose money unnecessarily due to hidden fees and poor exchange rates when sending remittances. Follow these proven tips to keep more of your cash:
1. Check the Real Exchange Rate
Some providers claim “zero fees” but give you a worse exchange rate. Always compare against the mid-market rate (the real rate you see on Google or XE).
Tip: Use LeoCompare to instantly check which provider offers the best rate.
2. Compare Transfer Fees
- Flat fees → Better for large transfers.
- Percentage fees → Better for small transfers.
- Promotions → Some providers waive fees for first-time users.
3. Choose the Right Payment Method
- Bank transfers → Usually the cheapest option.
- Debit/Credit cards → Faster but often more expensive.
- E-wallets (Careem Pay, etc.) → Good for speed and convenience.
4. Watch Out for Hidden Fees
- Intermediary bank fees – when money passes through multiple banks.
- Receiving fees – some Nigerian banks charge the recipient.
- Currency conversion fees – if sending in AED vs. USD.
Tip: Always pick providers that guarantee no hidden fees.
5. Use a Comparison Tool
Instead of checking each provider manually, LeoCompare shows all your options in one place—helping you save time and money when you send money from UAE to Nigeria.
How Long Does It Take to Send Money from UAE to Nigeria?
Transfer times vary depending on the service:
Service | Transfer Speed | Best For |
Western Union | Minutes (cash pickup) | Urgent needs |
Careem Pay | Minutes to hours | Mobile convenience |
Al Ansari | Same-day | Fast cash transfers |
Lulu Money | Same-day/next-day | Low-cost option |
Emirates NBD | 1–3 business days | Large bank transfers |
Beyon Money | Within 24 hours | Reliable, low-fee transfers |
Need instant transfers? Choose Western Union or Careem Pay.
Sending a large amount? Go with Emirates NBD or Beyon Money.
Final Tips for Sending Money to Nigeria from UAE
1. Compare Before Sending
Before you send money from UAE to Nigeria, take the time to compare different providers. Even small differences in exchange rates, transfer fees, or hidden charges can add up over multiple transactions. By choosing the most cost-effective option, you can save a significant amount over time.
If you’re making a UAE to USA money transfer, it’s essential to check the exchange rate and fees offered by various services. Some providers may offer better rates but charge higher fees, while others might have lower fees but add hidden costs within the exchange rate. Online comparison tools can help you check and select the best rates available. Whether you’re sending a remittance from UAE to India or making an international transfer to the USA, taking a few minutes to compare options can ensure you get the best deal and keep more of your hard-earned money.
2. Avoid Weekends and Holidays
It’s best to send money from UAE to Nigeria on business days because bank processing times can be slower on weekends and public holidays. Some banks may not process international transfers during non-business hours, causing unnecessary delays. If you need the funds to reach the recipient quickly, plan your transfer accordingly to avoid waiting longer than expected.
3. Check Recipient’s Bank Policies
Not all banks in Nigeria follow the same fee structure. Some banks may deduct additional fees when receiving international transfers, which means the recipient might get less money than expected. Before you send money from UAE to Nigeria, make sure to check with the recipient’s bank to understand their policies and ensure they receive the full amount you intend to send.
4. Use Trusted Providers
For security and reliability, always choose well-known and reputable money transfer services when you send money from UAE to Nigeria. Fraud and scams are common in international transactions, so using a trusted provider helps protect your money. Established services also offer better customer support, tracking options, and fraud protection to ensure your transfer is safe and successful.
Conclusion – Save More with the Right Money Transfer Service
Send Money from UAE to Nigeria doesn’t have to be expensive or slow. By comparing providers, checking exchange rates, and avoiding hidden fees, you can ensure your recipient gets the maximum amount.
Ready to send money the smart way?
Use LeoCompare to instantly find the best rates, lowest fees, and fastest transfer options.
Compare Money Transfer Services Now and save money today!
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