The dirham was introduced in 1973 to serve the seven countries of the United Arab Emirates. The seven countries, termed emirates, are Abu Dhabi, Ajmān, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm al-Quwain.
The plural form is pronounced darahim, yet in French and English dirhams is commonly used. It is also the de facto currency in Western Sahara.
