New approval positions Circle for deeper expansion in a market rapidly building a comprehensive digital-asset framework
Circle has received regulatory approval to operate within Abu Dhabi’s international financial center, marking a significant milestone in the United Arab Emirates’ expanding digital-asset ecosystem. The authorization strengthens Circle’s strategy to scale USDC adoption across a region that is accelerating its oversight of stablecoins, DeFi and Web3 services.
Circle confirmed that it has obtained a Financial Services Permission license from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The approval enables the company to function as a fully licensed Money Services Provider, giving Circle the ability to expand compliant stablecoin infrastructure across the UAE. The firm also appointed Saeeda Jaffar as managing director for the Middle East and Africa, tasking her with building regional partnerships and growth strategies.
Circle leadership emphasized that Abu Dhabi’s regulatory design sets a high standard for transparency, risk oversight and consumer protection—elements the company views as critical for scaling trusted digital-payment solutions.
Across the wider UAE, regulators are rolling out a broad set of frameworks covering DeFi, Web3 platforms and virtual-asset operations. Under Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2025, activities such as decentralized payments, lending, custody and exchange now require licensing—signaling the government’s intent to place all economically significant crypto activity under clear oversight.
With Circle’s entry, the UAE strengthens its position as one of the most proactive jurisdictions shaping the future of regulated digital finance.
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.