Ripple Secures Major License in the Middle East
Ripple has recently made a significant breakthrough in the Middle East by obtaining a crucial license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). This license allows Ripple to provide regulated crypto payments and services within the Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC).
Key Points:
- Ripple announced on March 13, 2025, that it had secured a major license in the Middle East.
- The DFSA has approved Ripple to offer regulated crypto payments and services within the DIFC.
- This milestone makes Ripple the first blockchain-enabled payments provider to receive such a vital license.
The approval from DFSA signifies a significant milestone for Ripple in the Middle East, further solidifying its presence in the region and establishing key partnerships.
Ripple’s CEO, Brad Garlinghouse, expressed optimism about the future growth of the crypto industry, citing regulatory clarity and institutional adoption as driving forces. The UAE’s supportive environment for tech and crypto innovation positions it as a favorable market for Ripple’s expansion.
Insights from a 2024 Ripple Survey:
- 64% of finance leaders in the Middle East and Africa view faster payments as the primary utility for blockchain-based currencies.
- Over 82% of MEA finance executives are confident about integrating blockchain technology into their operations.
Reece Merrick, Ripple’s managing director for the Middle East and Africa, emphasized the UAE’s progressive regulatory framework for digital assets and the potential for faster, more transparent cross-border transactions in the region.
This DFSA license opens up new possibilities for Ripple’s stablecoin RLUSD, enabling real-time settlements for cross-border payments and remittances in the UAE.
