- Dubai tested its first crypto-to-AED settlement for government fees via the Dubai Pay platform.
- The pilot confirmed regulatory compliance and secure digital asset conversion into UAE dirhams.
- Crypto.com joined the trial after receiving Central Bank approval for crypto payment services.
Dubai has taken a major step toward modernizing public transactions after successfully testing crypto-to-dirham payments for government services. The pilot, conducted by the Dubai Department of Finance (DoF) in coordination with the Dubai Land Department (DLD), marks the first official test converting cryptocurrency into UAE dirhams to settle government fees. The transaction, processed through the Dubai Pay platform, represents a key milestone in the city’s goal of creating a secure digital payment infrastructure.
The test involved paying government service fees for a property map issued by the DLD. The payment moved through Emirates NBD, ensuring full regulatory oversight and instant conversion into dirhams. The Digital Dubai Authority provided the technical backbone for the process, integrating systems between the DoF and DLD to verify both speed and security.
Pilot Confirms Secure Crypto-to-AED Settlements
According to Amina Lootah, Director of Digital Payment Systems Regulation at the DoF, the trial achieved secure conversion of digital assets into dirhams. She confirmed that all transactions complied with financial standards designed to maintain transparency and protect users. The successful result confirmed that digital asset payments could function within existing government frameworks without disrupting service operations.
Dubai’s authorities designed the test to validate efficiency and ensure compliance with UAE’s financial regulations. Officials stated that the outcome supports the Emirate’s smart government strategy and positions Dubai to handle future digital transactions securely. By embedding crypto payments into the Dubai Pay platform, the city moves closer to enabling residents to complete official payments through digital currencies.
Crypto.com’s Participation Strengthens Payment Framework
Crypto.com, operating as Foris Dax Middle East, joined the pilot after receiving In-Principle Approval from the Central Bank. The approval allows the company to offer Stored Value Facility services, enabling the conversion of cryptocurrencies into dirhams for public payments. UAE General Manager Mohammed Al Hakim said the test builds confidence in a trusted and sustainable digital payments framework.
Foris Dax will later expand its services to include both traditional dirham and AED-pegged stablecoin settlements once fully licensed. The company’s role in the pilot reflects Dubai’s intention to integrate regulated crypto transactions within its broader financial ecosystem.
H.E. Abdulrahman Al Saleh, Director General of the DoF, said Dubai will continue developing secure, compliant financial systems. He stated that the trial demonstrates practical progress toward a more advanced digital economy. Digital Dubai’s Director General, H.E. Hamad Al Mansoori, noted that integrating crypto payments supports the “City as a Service” model. DLD Director General Omar Bushahab added that testing advanced payment tools ensures readiness for wider deployment across government entities.
