Ripple’s RLUSD Stablecoin Approved for Institutional Use in UAE

RLUSD

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  • RLUSD gains regulatory approval for institutional use in the UAE’s Abu Dhabi Global Market.
  • Ripple’s stablecoin now supports payments, collateral management, and treasury operations in licensed firms.
  • The UAE’s new regulatory framework creates a unified approach to stablecoin oversight, boosting Ripple’s regional strategy.

Ripple’s dollar-pegged stablecoin, RLUSD, has received a significant regulatory approval in the UAE. The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has granted the stablecoin the Accepted Fiat-Referenced Token (AFRT) designation, clearing the way for its use in licensed institutional activities within the region. This approval strengthens Ripple’s position in the Middle East and expands the reach of RLUSD, which has already been gaining traction in global financial markets.

RLUSD’s Approval: A Game-Changer for UAE’s Digital Asset Landscape

With the FSRA’s approval, RLUSD is now authorized for use in payments, collateral management, and treasury operations within ADGM. This move aligns with the UAE’s push to create a regulated environment for digital assets and stablecoins, ensuring transparency and stability. To comply with the FSRA’s requirements, firms using RLUSD must adhere to strict standards for reserve management and disclosure, which guarantees that the stablecoin remains fully backed by cash and equivalents.

Ripple’s stablecoin has rapidly gained adoption since its launch in late 2024, with its market capitalization already surpassing $1 billion. This growth has been bolstered by institutional demand for secure, efficient cross-border payments and collateral management. In particular, the UAE is becoming a key hub for Ripple’s expansion into the Middle East, with approvals in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai reinforcing its regional strategy.

Ripple’s Strategic Expansion in the UAE

Ripple’s success in the UAE comes as part of a broader strategy to solidify its presence in the region. Earlier this year, Ripple secured full regulatory clearance to offer cross-border crypto payment services within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), one of the UAE’s most prominent financial zones. This move allowed Ripple to further integrate RLUSD into payment workflows, supporting firms like Zand Bank and fintech Mamo in streamlining settlements through its blockchain-based payment system.

Ripple’s approval in both the ADGM and DIFC demonstrates its commitment to expanding its stablecoin’s utility across major financial hubs. As institutional adoption continues to rise, RLUSD is positioning itself as a key player in the UAE’s growing digital finance sector.

Also Read: Ripple Explores XRPL Staking and Fed Payment Access to Boost XRP Utility

Ripple’s RLUSD Approval Amidst UAE’s Regulatory Overhaul

The approval also arrives at a pivotal moment for the UAE’s digital finance sector, as the country ushers in new regulatory reforms. A major overhaul, the Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2025, now places decentralized finance (DeFi) and Web3 activities under the direct oversight of the Central Bank of the UAE. By 2026, all platforms involved in lending, custody, payments, exchanges, or investment services must secure a license, ensuring a unified approach to digital asset regulation.

As the UAE adapts to these changes, Ripple’s regulatory clearances put it in a strong position to benefit from the country’s evolving digital finance ecosystem. This approval for RLUSD is just the latest step in Ripple’s journey to reshape the future of cross-border payments and digital asset usage globally.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.