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- UAE holds 6,300 BTC worth up to $740M, mined via Citadel Mining.
- Abu Dhabi’s sovereign fund also invested $534M in a Bitcoin ETF.
- UAE now ranks as the 4th-largest sovereign Bitcoin holder globally.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially entered the top tier of sovereign Bitcoin holders. On August 25, 2025, blockchain intelligence firm Arkham Intelligence revealed that the UAE government controls around 6,300 BTC, valued between $700 million and $740 million.
What sets the UAE apart is the source of these reserves: rather than purchasing on the open market, the country accumulated its Bitcoin through Citadel Mining, a publicly listed entity majority-owned by Abu Dhabi’s Royal Group. This strategy allows the Emirates to strengthen its position in global mining while avoiding direct exposure to market volatility during accumulation.
UAE Becomes the Fourth-Largest Bitcoin Holder
The addition of mined Bitcoin reserves now places the UAE as the world’s fourth-largest state holder of Bitcoin, cementing its reputation as a growing hub for digital assets. With favorable regulations, cheap energy, and a proactive investment stance, the country is fast becoming a center of gravity for crypto adoption in the Middle East.
Also Read: SBI Holdings Partners with Chainlink to Drive Crypto Adoption and LINK Growth in Asia
Dual Strategy: Mining and ETFs
Beyond mining, the UAE’s sovereign wealth arm has committed $534 million to a Bitcoin ETF, highlighting a dual-pronged strategy. This approach combines the accumulation of self-mined reserves with exposure to regulated investment vehicles, underscoring the nation’s intent to integrate Bitcoin into its broader financial ecosystem.
By pursuing both approaches, the UAE diversifies its crypto exposure while ensuring it has a foothold in both physical reserves and institutional-grade financial products.
A Rising Global Crypto Power
The UAE’s entry into the league of sovereign Bitcoin holders places it alongside countries such as El Salvador and the U.S., both of which have taken high-profile steps into Bitcoin adoption. With vast financial resources and significant energy infrastructure, the Emirates could emerge as one of the most influential global players in shaping Bitcoin’s role as a strategic reserve asset.
Arkham’s disclosure marks the first public confirmation of these holdings and sends a clear signal: Bitcoin is no longer just a speculative investment but a national-level reserve strategy for forward-looking governments.
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
