Ripple Expands Its UAE Base
Ripple has opened a new Middle East and Africa regional headquarters in Dubai’s DIFC, expanding its footprint in the UAE. The move reflects rising demand for regulated blockchain payment solutions across the region. It also supports Ripple’s plan to grow its local team and strengthen partnerships with financial institutions operating in the Middle East and Africa markets.
New Headquarters Supports Regional Growth
Ripple said the new DIFC office can support a larger team. The company now has capacity to double its regional operations.
The expansion comes as more firms seek regulated blockchain payment services. Banks and financial companies are also testing digital asset tools.
Reece Merrick, Managing Director for Middle East and Africa at Ripple, said, “In recent years the Middle East has become an increasingly vital driver of Ripple’s global growth.”
He added, “A larger team, based here in Dubai, will enable us to go further in supporting our clients and partners across the region and beyond.”
Ripple Builds on Dubai Regulation
Ripple has also secured key regulatory approvals in Dubai. In March 2025, it became the first blockchain payments provider licensed by the DFSA.
The license allows Ripple to offer regulated cross-border digital payment services from the DIFC. It also supports its work with banks and payment firms.
The DFSA also approved RLUSD as a recognized crypto token in the DIFC. Regulated firms in the financial centre can use the dollar-backed stablecoin.
Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, said, “Ripple’s expansion within DIFC is a strong signal of the confidence that world-leading digital asset firms have in Dubai.”
