April 30, 2026
Ripple has strengthened its footprint in the UAE by launching a new Middle East and Africa (MEA) regional headquarters in the Dubai International Financial Centre. The move supports the company’s growth strategy and allows it to scale operations in response to rising demand for regulated blockchain-powered payment and custody solutions across the region.
Having first established its regional base in Dubai in 2020, Ripple has steadily expanded its presence, with the Middle East now accounting for a significant portion of its global customer base. The new DIFC office provides the capacity to double its regional team, enhancing support for partners and clients such as Zand Bank, Ctrl Alt, Garanti BBVA, Absa Bank, and Chipper Cash.
Ripple’s growth in the Middle East has been driven by key regulatory achievements. In March 2025, it became the first blockchain payments provider licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), enabling regulated cross-border digital payment services within DIFC. More recently, the DFSA approved RLUSD as a recognized crypto token, allowing its use by regulated firms in the financial centre.
According to Reece Merrick, Managing Director for MEA at Ripple, the region has become a major driver of the company’s global growth, with increasing demand from businesses for compliant blockchain-based financial infrastructure. The expanded Dubai team is expected to further strengthen Ripple’s ability to serve clients across the Middle East and Africa.
Leadership at DIFC also welcomed the expansion, highlighting it as a strong indicator of Dubai’s growing position as a global hub for blockchain and digital asset innovation.r the UAE, reflecting conservative risk management practices amid global uncertainty.
