Dubai to Accept Crypto for Public Services by 2026, aligning with its goal of 90% cashless transactions. This initiative marks a step toward a fully digital society. This article explores Dubai’s crypto payment initiative, its cashless society goal, and the role of stablecoins in the UAE.
Dubai’s Crypto Payment Initiative
Dubai to Accept Crypto for Public Services by 2026, as announced by the Dubai Department of Finance (DOF). In partnership with Crypto.com, DOF will enable crypto payments for government services. A memorandum of understanding was signed at the FinTech Summit in Dubai between DOF and Crypto.com UAE President Mohammed Al-Hakim. Once technical preparations are complete, individuals and businesses can use Crypto.com wallets to pay for services, with payments converted to UAE dirhams for DOF accounts.
Advancing Dubai’s Cashless Society Goal
This partnership supports Dubai’s Cashless Strategy, aiming for 90% cashless transactions in public and private sectors by 2026. The initiative strengthens Dubai’s position as a leading digital city, integrating crypto payments into official platforms. Dubai Finance emphasized that using stable cryptocurrencies ensures seamless and secure transactions, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global hub for financial innovation.
Stablecoins and UAE’s Digital Future
In late April 2025, ADQ, IHC, and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) announced plans for a UAE dirham-backed stablecoin, regulated by the UAE Central Bank. This stablecoin will support everyday payments and emerging digital use cases, like AI and device-to-device transactions. The project aims to enhance the UAE’s digital infrastructure, positioning it as a global fintech leader.
Dubai to Accept Crypto for Public Services by 2026, paving the way for a cashless, digitally advanced society with stablecoins playing a key role.
