Dubai Regulator Greenlights Ripple’s RLUSD Stablecoin for Use in Financial Free Zone

Ripple’s U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin, RLUSD, has officially been approved by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) for use within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), marking a key milestone in Ripple’s Middle East expansion strategy.

With the DFSA’s approval, RLUSD becomes one of a select few stablecoins authorized under the DIFC’s crypto asset framework. Companies operating within the DIFC can now integrate RLUSD into a wide range of regulated financial activities, including payments, treasury operations, and other virtual asset services.

Boosting Blockchain Innovation in Real Estate

Ripple also confirmed that RLUSD will support the Dubai Land Department’s (DLD) initiative to tokenize real estate title deeds. The pilot phase of this project, announced in March 2025, will utilize the XRP Ledger to record and manage ownership rights through blockchain technology.

The DLD’s blockchain integration initiative aims to streamline property registration processes and introduce greater transparency to real estate transactions in Dubai.

UAE Demand for Crypto Solutions Grows

Ripple’s Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa, Reece Merrick, emphasized the growing demand for crypto infrastructure in the region. “The UAE’s digital economy is vibrant and incredibly dynamic. We’re seeing huge interest from businesses of all sizes for cross-border payments and digital asset custody solutions,” he said.

Ripple has already partnered with local institutions like digital bank Zand and fintech startup Mamo, which are expected to be early adopters of RLUSD-powered services within the DIFC.

Regulatory Momentum for Ripple

The DFSA’s approval of RLUSD follows Ripple’s full license to operate in the DIFC, granted in March 2025. The stablecoin is also approved under the New York Department of Financial Services’ (NYDFS) Trust Company Charter, making it one of the few stablecoins with regulatory green lights on both sides of the Atlantic.

In addition to RLUSD, the DFSA has recognized Circle-issued stablecoins USDC and EURC, further expanding the range of regulated digital currencies available for use within the DIFC’s financial ecosystem.

As Dubai strengthens its reputation as a hub for blockchain innovation, Ripple’s regulatory wins and strategic partnerships position the company as a key player in shaping the region’s digital asset infrastructure.