Circle Secures Key License in Abu Dhabi
Circle Internet Group— the issuer of the stablecoin USD Coin (USDC) has received a full operating license from Abu Dhabi Global Market’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority. This approval allows Circle to run as a regulated Money Services Provider in the UAE. The company can now offer payment, settlement, and digital asset services under local law. The decision upgrades Circle’s earlier provisional approval and gives the company a clear path to scale its stablecoin services across the region.
New Regional Managing Director to Lead Expansion
Alongside the license, Circle appointed Dr. Saeeda Jaffar as its Regional Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa. She previously served as a senior executive at Visa, where she oversaw operations across the Gulf Cooperation Council. Her background in consulting and her work with regional banks and sovereign funds give Circle strong leadership as it pushes deeper into the Middle East.
Key factors behind her appointment include:
- Deep experience in digital payments and financial infrastructure
- Strong track record working with institutional clients
- Regional insight that supports Circle’s long-term strategy
UAE’s Growing Role in Global Stablecoin Adoption
The UAE continues to position itself as a global center for regulated digital finance. Regulators in Abu Dhabi and Dubai have created clear rules for fiat-backed tokens, which encourages companies like Circle to invest in the region. Furthermore, these frameworks support safe innovation and give institutions confidence to adopt stablecoin technology.
With this approval in hand, Circle plans to expand the use of USDC in cross-border payments, retail transactions, and institutional settlement. The company’s leadership believes regulatory clarity will help build a more efficient financial system supported by open internet infrastructure.
Looking ahead, Circle’s milestone may inspire more global stablecoin issuers to pursue similar regulatory footprints. This trend could accelerate widespread adoption of crypto-enabled payments across the Middle East and beyond.
