Circle’s USDC Expands into Middle East with Abu Dhabi Regulatory Approval

Circle, the issuer of the world’s second-largest stablecoin USDC, has received regulatory approval from Abu Dhabi to operate as a licensed digital asset service provider in the UAE. This strategic authorization positions Circle at the epicenter of the Middle East’s rapidly growing digital finance ecosystem.

The landmark approval represents a key step in Circle’s international growth strategy. By establishing operations in the Abu Dhabi Global market (ADGM), the company gains access to a region leading cryptocurrency adoption with progressive regulatory frameworks—a stark contrast to the uncertainty in other global markets.

The Middle East has emerged as a crypto innovation hub, with nations implementing clear digital asset regulations that attract institutional investors. Circle’s expansion highlights increasing demand for compliant stablecoin solutions in developing crypto economies, particularly as traditional financial systems face growing scrutiny.