Money transfer from Dubai to Kerala with cash notes and banknotes.Hands holding a large sum of Euro and Indian Rupee banknotes for international money transfer.

By Malabaar Daily | Dubai Money Guide

Sending money back to Kerala is one of the most important financial activities for every Malayali in Dubai. (best way to send money from dubai to kerala)

Whether it’s for family expenses, home loan EMI, children’s education, or building a house — the money you send home truly matters.

But here’s the real question: Are you getting the best exchange rate?

Many Malayalis lose hundreds of dirhams every month by:

  • Choosing the wrong exchange company
  • Transferring at the wrong time

This guide will help you save more on every transfer.

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Best Exchange Companies to Send Money to Kerala

Exchange CompanyINR Rate*Transfer SpeedAppBest For
Lulu Exchange₹22.60–23.00Same day / InstantYes (LuluForex)Regular transfers
Al Ansari Exchange₹22.50–22.90Same dayYesLarge amounts
UAE Exchange₹22.40–22.80Same dayYesMultiple transfers
Al Rostamani₹22.50–23.00Same dayYesCompetitive rates
Western Union₹21.50–22.00MinutesYesEmergency transfers
Wise (TransferWise)Near mid-market1–2 daysYesBest rates

⚠️ Rates change daily. Always check before sending.


Lulu Exchange vs Al Ansari — Which is Better?

FactorLulu ExchangeAl Ansari Exchange
Branches100+ in Dubai200+ across UAE
Queue TimeLong on weekendsUsually faster
AppLuluForex (very good)Good
INR RateSlightly better oftenVery competitive
StaffMalayalam-speaking availableLess Malayalam staff
FeesFree above AED 500Free above limit

👉 Verdict:
Both are excellent. Always compare rates on the same day — even 10–15 fils difference matters when sending AED 2,000+.


How Much Money Do Malayalis Send Home?

Kerala receives one of the highest remittances in India, especially from the UAE.

Monthly Remittance Estimates

  • Blue-collar workers → AED 500 – 1,500
  • Mid-level employees → AED 1,500 – 3,000
  • Professionals → AED 3,000 – 8,000+
  • Business owners → AED 10,000+

Smart Tips to Get the Best Exchange Rate

  • Transfer between Monday–Wednesday
  • Send money before noon UAE time
  • Use mobile apps instead of branch visits
  • Set rate alerts in apps
  • Avoid Western Union for regular transfers
  • Avoid direct bank transfers (low rates)
  • Use Wise for large amounts

💡 Small savings per transfer = big yearly savings


How to Send Money Online (Step-by-Step)

Using LuluForex App:

  1. Download the app
  2. Register using Emirates ID
  3. Add beneficiary (Kerala bank account)
  4. Enter amount & check rate
  5. Pay via bank or debit card
  6. Money arrives within minutes / same day

FAQ

Which bank is best to receive money in Kerala?

  • Federal Bank
  • South Indian Bank
  • SBI

All are fast and widely used.


Is there a transfer limit?

No strict limit, but transfers above AED 10,000 may need extra documents.


Can tourists send money?

Limited options. Most services require Emirates ID.


Best time to send money?

Monday–Wednesday mornings usually give better rates.


Final Tip 💡

Even a small rate difference can mean thousands of extra rupees per year.

👉 Always compare rates before sending
👉 Use apps instead of counters
👉 Plan your transfers smartly

By Shahi Jalal

Shahi Jalal is a respected figure in the Malayalam media and expatriate community, primarily known for his dual expertise in international journalism and career consultancy for the Malayali diaspora in the Middle East and the United States.

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