23/03/2020: COVID-19 Pandemic Impact
The rand experienced significant volatility and depreciation as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting the country's economy and trade balance.
17/06/2018: Introduction of New Banknotes
A new series of UAE dirham banknotes, featuring enhanced durability, 3D security features, and tactile marks for visually impaired individuals, is introduced.
15/12/2008: Global Financial Crisis Impact
The rand plunged against major currencies due to the global financial crisis and concerns about South Africa's economic stability.
01/01/2007: Security Enhancements
New security features, including holograms and advanced anti-counterfeiting measures, are added to the UAE dirham banknotes.
01/12/2002: Introduction of Modern Coinage
A new series of UAE dirham coins, featuring modern designs and security features, is introduced.
09/11/2001: Rand Weakens to Record Low
The rand weakened to an all-time low against the US dollar, due to global economic uncertainty and domestic political concerns.
20/03/1995: Currency Peg to US Dollar
The UAE dirham is pegged to the United States dollar at a fixed exchange rate of 1 USD to 3.6725 AED.
01/01/1995: Establishment of Reserve Bank Independence
The South African Reserve Bank gained independence, allowing it to have more control over monetary policy.
27/04/1994: First Democratic Elections
The first democratic elections were held in South Africa, marking the end of apartheid and bringing political stability, positively affecting the rand's value.
01/08/1982: Currency Decimalization
The rand was decimalized, with 1 rand being equal to 100 cents.
01/01/1978: Currency Issuance Authority
The UAE Currency Issuing Authority is established, granting the authority to issue and manage the UAE dirham.
28/01/1973: Decoupling from Pound Sterling
The UAE dirham is officially decoupled from the British pound sterling and a new exchange rate is set.
02/12/1971: Formation of UAE
The United Arab Emirates is formed, resulting in the introduction of the UAE dirham as its official currency.
14/09/1961: Introduction of the Rand
The South African rand was introduced as the official currency, replacing the South African pound.