Aruba’s Currency Explained: A Guide for UK Travellers

The History of Aruban Currency

Aruba’s rich history dates back thousands of years. During the colonial period, the Spanish, Dutch, and British all occupied the island at various times. Today, Aruba is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, although it has been largely autonomous since 1986.

For many years, Aruba shared the Netherlands Antillean guilder (NAf) with neighbouring Dutch Caribbean territories. In 1986, Aruba introduced its own currency, the Aruban florin, which reflects both Dutch and local Papiamento influences. The currency is sometimes referred to as the “Aruban guilder.”

Aruba Currency Denominations

The Aruban florin is subdivided into 100 cents and is available in both coins and banknotes:

Banknotes

  • ƒ10
  • ƒ25
  • ƒ50
  • ƒ100
  • ƒ500

The banknotes feature vibrant designs showcasing Aruba’s wildlife, such as the rattlesnake, frog, turtle, and owl. The ƒ100 note won the International Banknote Society’s “Banknote of the Year” award in 2019.

Coins

  • 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢
  • ƒ1, ƒ5

Unique to Aruba, some coins, like the square 50¢ “yotin,” stand out for their distinctive design.

Five Essential Facts About Aruba’s Currency

1. Aruba’s Currency Is Pegged to the U.S. Dollar

The florin has a fixed exchange rate with the U.S. dollar at 1 USD = 1.79 Afl. This rate ensures stability, making it easy for visitors and residents to use both currencies interchangeably.

2. Dutch Royalty Features on Coins

Aruba’s coins often feature Dutch monarchs, such as King Willem-Alexander, reflecting its ties to the Netherlands. However, banknotes highlight Aruba’s unique cultural and natural heritage.

3. Some Coins Are Square

Unlike most currencies, Aruba’s 50¢ coin is square-shaped, adding a distinctive flair to its currency.

4. The Netherlands Antillean Florin Isn’t Accepted

While Curaçao and Sint Maarten use the Netherlands Antillean florin (ANG), it is not valid tender in Aruba.

5. Aruba Has One of the Highest GDPs in the Region

Aruba’s tourism-driven economy supports a high GDP per capita, approximately 51,000 florins as of 2021, making it one of the wealthiest Caribbean islands.

Aruba Currency Exchange Rates

The fixed exchange rate between the florin and U.S. dollar simplifies transactions for visitors. However, if you’re travelling from another country, such as the UK, you’ll need to exchange pounds to florins or dollars.

Tips for Exchanging Money

  • Exchange money before you travel to Aruba for better rates.
  • Use an online currency converter to check current GBP-to-Afl rates.
  • If you’re converting pounds, consider whether to exchange directly to florins or first to dollars, depending on convenience and fees.

Send Money to Aruba with Ease

Whether you’re living in Aruba or visiting, sending money abroad or to friends and family can be simple. With international money transfer services like Remitly, you can benefit from competitive exchange rates and low fees.

Remitly allows you to send money quickly and securely from the UK to dozens of destinations, including Aruba. Download the app today to get started.

About Cassidy Rush

Cassidy Rush is a writer and editor at Remitly with a focus on personal finance, immigration, and careers.