Circle Cracks Middle East Market—USDC Issuer Greenlit by Abu Dhabi Regulators

Stablecoin giant Circle just scored a major regulatory win—the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi granted full licensing approval. This move positions USDC to dominate Middle East crypto liquidity as oil money floods into digital assets.

Why it matters: The UAE’s crypto-friendly stance keeps attracting big players. Circle’s new foothold lets them tap into institutional demand while rivals scramble for approvals.

The cynical take: Another stablecoin play for petrodollar recycling—because nothing says ’decentralized finance’ like regulators rubber-stamping centralized issuers.

Circle’s push into the Middle East just got a major push – with a regulatory thumbs-up from Abu Dhabi that could change the game for stablecoins in the region. 

Circle, the company behind, the world’s second-largest stablecoin, has scoredfrom theof. 

Here’s putting it in simpler words – Circle’s been given a major go-ahead to operate as ain the UAE – and it’s one step closer to full licensing.

This gives it a strategic foothold in a region that is moving fast on digital finance, while the majority of the world is still figuring things out. 

Circle Is Going Where the Action Is

This is a calculated expansion – and a very good one.

Let’s be honest: the Middle East, and especially the UAE, has become a magnet for crypto and fintech innovators and it’s not hard to see why. With clear regulations, a forward-looking approach, and a serious appetite for, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a launchpad for the next phase of finance and thus, crypto.

“The UAE is paving the way for responsible innovators to build the internet financial system,” said Jeremy Allaire, Co-Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Circle.

The organization wants to build long-term here, in a place where regulation supports growth instead of stifling it. 

It’s also great timing-wise! Just weeks ago, Circle launched ato expand USDC utility, which now has a circulating supply of, up more than. Let’s also not forget that Circle also quietly filed for aat the start of this month. The Middle East move fits right into that momentum.

Circle Joins Forces with Hub71

Circle intends to build bridges wherever it can, and is planting deeper roots in Abu Dhabi through a new partnership with

Circle will work with Hub71 on programs through ADGM’s digital regulatory sandbox, giving founders access to. The company will also join Hub71’s Digital Assets specialist ecosystem, contributing its stablecoin expertise to a community of 500+ startups and VC partners.

“Circle’s expertise will enrich our digital assets ecosystem, providing Hub71 founders with greater access to resources, mentorship, and growth opportunities. Through this partnership, we are enabling the adoption of leading digital financial infrastructure that supports startup growth and drives the evolution of Web3 and digital finance from Abu Dhabi.” said

Stablecoins Are Going Global – And Circle Knows It

Circle was the, and just last month, it launchedthrough a partnership with.

Why does this matter?

Because according to rwa.xyz data, there arein stablecoins now in circulation, and growing fast. This isn’t a niche market anymore. What started as tools for crypto traders is now becoming a real-world alternative for payments, remittances – even better than traditional banks!