Dubai Licenses Ripple to Launch Cross-Border Payment Services

Blockchain network Ripple obtained approval from Dubai’s
regulators to launch its payment infrastructure across the UAE. The
in-principle approval was awarded by the Dubai Financial Services Authority
(DFSA). According to the company’s announcement, this move
enhances its presence in the region and provides a platform for blockchain-enabled
payment services in the rapidly expanding crypto space.

A Key Regulatory Win

The DFSA’s approval enables Ripple to provide
enterprise-grade digital asset infrastructure to a broader customer base in the
UAE. With this approval, Ripple will introduce Ripple Payments Direct, a
solution promising faster, more cost-effective cross-border payments.

This development aligns with Ripple’s efforts to
enhance payment efficiency by providing on/off-ramps between digital and fiat
currencies. The company reportedly aims to use this base as a launching point
for expanding operations throughout the region.

We’re delighted to have secured in-principle approval of a financial services license from Dubai Financial Services Authority, unlocking our end-to-end managed payments services in the UAE. 🌍🇦🇪https://t.co/4zq8YPlgaG

— Ripple (@Ripple) October 1, 2024

The decision to continue growing its presence in the
UAE follows Ripple’s establishment of its regional headquarters in Dubai in
2020. With the new in-principle license from the DFSA, Ripple is expanding its
partnership with global regulators and policymakers.

Ripple already holds over 55 licenses globally,
including from authorities such as the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the New
York Department of Financial Services, and the Central Bank of Ireland.

Global Expansion

Ripple’s growth in the UAE includes partnerships with
innovation hubs and academic institutions. Recently, Ripple announced a
partnership with the DIFC Innovation Hub as part of its global 1B XRP Fund
initiative.

This partnership aims to foster blockchain and digital
asset development in the region, connecting emerging developers with a network
of over 1,000 tech firms, digital labs, and venture capital entities.

Through these partnerships, Ripple aims to play a key
role in advancing blockchain research, nurturing talent, and driving financial
innovation in the UAE, solidifying Dubai’s position as a major global fintech
hub.

In June, Ripple finalized the acquisition of the New York-based Standard Custody and Trust Company and enlisted the company’s CEO as Senior Vice President of Stablecoins. The transaction added to Ripple’s portfolio of nearly 40 US money transmitter licenses, a Major Payment Institution License in Singapore, and a Virtual Asset Service Provider registration in Ireland.

This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.
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