Blockchain payments firm Ripple Labs has moved into Dubai to take advantage of the region’s robust payment ecosystem.
In a significant step toward its global expansion, Ripple Labs has obtained approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) to provide crypto payments and services in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). This will make Ripple the first blockchain payments provider licensed in the Middle East.
Ripple Labs’ Growing Influence in the Middle East
The United Arab Emirates has emerged as a global hub for digital payments. This growth has led Ripple to consider the region a key part of its expansion strategy.
The firm noted that financial institutions in the UAE are actively seeking more efficient payment solutions, particularly those that enable instant settlements and facilitate stablecoin adoption.
Ripple has secured regulatory approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), making us the first blockchain payments provider licensed in the DIFC. https://t.co/6oHWtnjODr
This milestone unlocks fully regulated cross-border crypto payments in the UAE, bringing…
— Ripple (@Ripple) March 13, 2025
In addition, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse disclosed the importance of regulatory clarity in driving institutional crypto adoption.
He praised the UAE’s proactive approach to enabling an innovation-friendly environment. This has positioned the country as a leader in blockchain adoption.
Since establishing its regional headquarters in DIFC in 2020, Ripple has expanded its footprint, with approximately 20% of its global customer base now operating in the Middle East.
The firm’s latest regulatory approval is expected to accelerate its regional growth and strengthen its role in facilitating international transactions.
Meanwhile, last month, the firm announced a partnership with Unicâmbio, a Portuguese financial services provider. The collaboration intends to strengthen cross-border transactions between Portugal and Brazil.
Ripple Lawsuit Almost Over
It is worth mentioning that while Ripple Labs gains regulatory traction overseas, its legal battle with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) appears to be nearing its final phase.
American journalist Eleanor Terrett recently cited sources indicating a resolution may be imminent, sharing this update on her X page on March 12th.
The SEC’s lawsuit, filed in 2020, accused Ripple of conducting an unregistered securities offering through XRP sales. However, the past few weeks have shown that U.S. regulatory priorities are seeing a new day.
For context, key litigators have been reassigned, and other crypto-related cases dropped, indicating a changing stance on enforcement.
Since the latest development, XRP’s price has increased by 4% and is currently trading at $2.26, according to Coinmarketcap. This rise reflects growing market optimism about Ripple’s regulatory progress and prospects.
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