Ripple Secures First Middle East Approval, Unlocks $40B UAE Payments Market

Key Takeaways

• Ripple has secured its first payment license in the Middle East with approval from the DFSA.
• The license allows the firm to offer its XRPL-powered payment network to Dubai-based institutions.
• The approval comes as reports suggest Ripple is nearing a settlement in its legal battle with the SEC.

Ripple has become the first blockchain payments provider licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), marking a major milestone in its expansion into the Middle East.

The approval grants Ripple the ability to operate in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a key financial hub in a region with a $40 billion cross-border payments market, according to World Bank data.

With Dubai positioning itself as a global fintech leader, the move strengthens Ripple’s presence in a jurisdiction known for its crypto-friendly regulatory environment.

Strengthening Ties in a Crypto-Friendly Region

The DFSA license allows Ripple to offer its XRP Ledger (XRPL)-powered payment solutions to institutions across the UAE, reinforcing its role as a compliance-focused partner for financial entities embracing blockchain technology.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse praised Dubai’s leadership for fostering a progressive environment for tech and crypto innovation.

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

Ripple has been building its presence in the Middle East since 2020 when it established its regional headquarters in the DIFC. The latest approval cements its foothold in a market where demand for blockchain-based cross-border payments continues to rise.

Global Expansion Amid Ripple-SEC Settlement Speculation

Ripple’s latest regulatory win adds to its growing list of licenses, bringing its total to over 60 approvals worldwide.

The milestone comes as speculation swirls around a potential settlement in the SEC vs. Ripple lawsuit, which has lasted more than four years.

According to Fox Business journalist Eleanor Terrett , sources familiar with the matter say the lawsuit is “wrapping up” as the blockchain firm negotiates more favorable settlement terms.

The SEC may be reevaluating its position amid shifting regulatory priorities under Donald Trump’s administration.

Despite its ongoing legal battle in the U.S., Ripple has steadily expanded its global footprint. The company holds licenses from major regulatory bodies, including:

• Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).
• New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS).
• Central Bank of Ireland’s Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) registration.
• U.S. Money Transmitter Licenses (MTLs).

With its latest Dubai approval, Ripple continues to position itself as a dominant player in blockchain-based payments, even as its U.S. regulatory battle nears a potential resolution.