Key Points:

Ripple has received approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) to offer regulated crypto payments and services in the UAE.
The company sees strong demand in the Middle East, with 20% of its global customer base already operating in the region.
Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin has reached a market capitalization of $134 million, with stablecoin adoption expected to grow in the UAE.

Ripple has become the first blockchain-enabled payments provider to receive regulatory approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).

The license allows Ripple to offer regulated crypto payments and financial services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a region known for its progressive stance on digital assets.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse emphasized the importance of regulatory clarity for the growth of the crypto industry, stating:

“We are entering an unprecedented period of growth for the crypto industry, driven by greater regulatory clarity around the world and increasing institutional adoption.”

The UAE has positioned itself as a crypto-friendly hub, attracting both blockchain-native companies and traditional financial institutions looking to integrate digital asset solutions.

Ripple has already established a strong presence in the region, with approximately 20% of its global customer base operating in the Middle East.

Huge news 🔥 @Ripple is now DFSA licensed to offer regulated crypto payments in the @DIFC bringing the speed and efficiencies of blockchain to one of the world’s biggest trade and cross-border payments hubs.

A big thank you to our partners at @DIFC and the DFSA for their early…

— Reece Merrick (@reece_merrick) March 13, 2025

Stablecoin Adoption and RLUSD Growth in the UAE

Ripple’s latest regulatory approval comes as the UAE pushes for greater stablecoin adoption, particularly for real-time settlements and payments utility. This trend could further boost the usage of Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin, which currently holds a market capitalization of $134 million.

Stablecoins are playing an increasingly important role in cross-border transactions, and the UAE’s supportive regulatory framework makes it an ideal market for further adoption. Ripple’s licensed status could allow the company to expand its stablecoin and payment services across the Middle East.

Global Expansion and XRP Market Reaction

Ripple’s DFSA approval adds to its growing list of more than 60 regulatory approvals worldwide, including:

Major Payments Institution License from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)
New York DFS Trust Charter
Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) registration from the Central Bank of Ireland
Money Transmitter Licenses (MTLs) across multiple U.S. states

Meanwhile, XRP’s price surged nearly 3% in the past 24 hours, outperforming Bitcoin (BTC) and other major cryptocurrencies.