Dubai’s Department of Finance (DOF) is set to integrate cryptocurrency payments for government services, enabling residents to use digital assets for transactions in the near future. On May 13, the DOF announced its partnership with Crypto.com, designating the platform as the official crypto payment facilitator—marking a significant leap in Dubai’s digital finance strategy.
Senior DOF officials attended the MoU signing with Crypto.com, which was unveiled at the ongoing Dubai FinTech Summit. The department emphasized that Dubai is evolving into a fully digital economy, with regulators endorsing cryptocurrencies as a secure and efficient method for financial transactions.
Ahmad Ali Meftah, Executive Director of the Central Accounts Sector at DOF, highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration, stating that strategic partnerships strengthen Dubai’s financial technology leadership by fostering a sustainable economic framework for individuals and businesses.
This initiative supports Dubai Cashless Strategy, launched last year, which aims to digitize 90% of all transactions and is projected to contribute at least AED eight billion to the economy annually.
Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of Dubai’s Executive Council, emphasized the emirate’s commitment to strengthening its position by adopting secure financial technology solutions that enhance its cashless strategy, optimize government transactions, and promote innovation in financial services. 
To regulate the Web3 sector, Dubai established the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) in March 2022. The region’s clear legal framework has attracted numerous crypto firms looking to expand their operations.
Crypto.com, the Singapore-based crypto exchange, established its Dubai office in 2022. Now, through its partnership with the DOF, it aims to implement the first comprehensive, government-wide payment digitization initiative.
“We are honored to support Dubai’s Department of Finance in this endeavor,” said Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com.
This isn’t the UAE’s first effort to bridge Web3 with traditional finance. In February, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) signed an MoU with Shiba Inu to integrate the ShibOS operating system into government operations across the country.
Dubai remains committed to advancing contactless technologies, including cryptocurrencies and AI-driven solutions.
