emirates7 - Ripple, a leader in enterprise blockchain and cryptocurrency solutions, has received approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) to offer regulated crypto payments and services within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

This makes Ripple the first blockchain-based payments provider to be licensed by the DFSA.

Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, expressed excitement over Ripple's deepened commitment to Dubai, noting that the DFSA license positions Ripple as the first blockchain-enabled payments provider in DIFC. This achievement reflects DIFC's dedication to fostering innovation and presents Ripple with new growth opportunities in the region and beyond.

Amiri also highlighted DIFC's position as a global financial hub for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, reinforcing its support for forward-thinking companies like Ripple, which are driving the future of finance and accelerating blockchain adoption in the payments sector.

Brad Garlinghouse, CEO of Ripple, stated, "We are entering a period of remarkable growth for the crypto industry, supported by increased regulatory clarity worldwide and higher institutional adoption. The UAE, with its proactive approach to tech and crypto innovation, is exceptionally poised to reap the benefits."

Reece Merrick, Ripple's Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa, noted that securing the DFSA license is a key milestone that will enable Ripple to meet the rising demand for faster, more affordable, and transparent cross-border transactions, especially in one of the largest global cross-border payments hubs.