• Ripple has secured a major license in the Middle East after getting regulatory nod from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).
• The license allows Ripple to offer regulated crypto payments and services within the Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC).

Ripple announced on March 13, 2025 that it had secured a major license in the Middle East.

The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) has greenlit Ripple to offer regulated crypto payments and services within the Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC).

Ripple becomes the first blockchain-enabled payments provider to snag this crucial DFSA license.

Ripple has secured regulatory approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), making us the first blockchain payments provider licensed in the DIFC. https://t.co/6oHWtnjODr

This milestone unlocks fully regulated cross-border crypto payments in the UAE, bringing…

— Ripple (@Ripple) March 13, 2025

Ripple secures license in Middle East milestone

This DFSA approval marks another of Ripple’s footprint in the Middle East, with this adding to a presence that includes major partnerships in the region.

It enhances the XRP creator’s recognition and aligns with Ripple’s plans to add to its global customer base. The license also means a potentially massive opportunity for XRP adoption.

“We are entering an unprecedented period of growth for the crypto industry, driven by greater regulatory clarity around the world and increasing institutional adoption,” said Brad Garlinghouse, chief executive officer of Ripple. “Thanks to its early leadership in creating a supportive environment for tech and crypto innovation, the UAE is exceptionally well-placed to benefit.”

A 2024 Ripple survey found 64% of finance leaders in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) see faster payments as the killer app for blockchain-based currencies. No surprise, then, that over 82% of MEA finance bosses say they’re “very or extremely confident” about integrating this tech into their operations.

“Dubai and the broader UAE have established themselves as leaders in fostering a progressive and well-defined regulatory framework for digital assets,” said Reece Merrick, Ripple’s managing director for Middle East and Africa.

Merrick added;

“Securing this DFSA license is a major milestone that will enable us to better serve the growing demand for faster, cheaper and more transparent cross-border transactions in one of the world’s largest cross-border payments hubs.”

This license will be great for Ripple’s stablecoin RLUSD, which the company launched late last year. Like other stablecoins, RLUSD could supercharge crypto adoption in the UAE, with users accessing real-time settlement for cross-border payments and remittances.

Acting U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Mark Uyeda has announced a move to reconsider a proposed rule that could regulate decentralized finance (DeFi) exchanges. The rule, known as Regulation ATS, aimed to broaden the definition of an exchange to include communication protocols used in the crypto sector. Uyeda stated that he directed SEC staff to explore options for abandoning the portion of the proposal related to crypto, citing widespread public criticism.

SEC Chair Mark Uyeda Moves to Drop Rule Targeting DeFi Exchanges

In a recent development in crypto regulations, SEC Chair Mark Uyeda has asked agency staff to explore options for removing part of the proposed Regulation ATS. The rule sought to expand the definition of an exchange to include communication protocols in crypto markets.

Uyeda said that the proposal would have forced DeFi platforms to register as regulated exchanges. The move faced heavy opposition from the crypto industry, with concerns that it could impose excessive compliance burdens. Uyeda acknowledged the criticism and emphasized that the SEC should reconsider its approach.

Meanwhile, in other regulatory news, Thailand’s SEC has officially approved USDT as a recognized cryptocurrency. The decision allows virtual asset service providers in the country to offer Tether’s stablecoin on their platforms, expanding its accessibility for businesses and individuals.

Regulation ATS Expansion Could Have Classified DeFi as Exchanges

Regulation ATS was initially designed to regulate alternative trading systems but was revised under former SEC Chair Gary Gensler. The proposed changes could have extended its scope to DeFi platforms. This would have subjected decentralized exchanges to regulatory oversight similar to traditional financial markets.

Critics warned that the proposed rule could hinder innovation in decentralized finance. Industry leaders argued that forcing DeFi projects to comply with exchange registration and disclosure requirements could be impractical due to their decentralized nature. Uyeda recognized these concerns and indicated that the SEC may step back from its initial position.

Most recently, CoinGape reported that ConsenSys challenged the SEC’s proposed DeFi rule changes, arguing that they exceed the agency’s legal jurisdiction. The company contends that the amendments impose undue regulatory burdens on decentralized protocols, conflicting with existing legal frameworks. ConsenSys has called for the SEC to withdraw the rule entirely, citing risks to innovation and compliance complexities.

Trump-Era and Impact on Crypto Regulations

The SEC has taken a different approach to crypto regulations under the new administration. Uyeda’s move follows a series of policy reversals since the departure of former SEC Chair Gary Gensler. The agency recently rescinded strict crypto accounting guidance and dropped several enforcement actions against industry players.

The shift signals a more relaxed regulatory stance toward digital assets. With the Trump administration in office, the SEC appears focused on easing restrictions that critics viewed as overly aggressive. Uyeda’s latest decision continues this trend, as the agency re-evaluates its approach to crypto oversight.

More so, crypto regulations in the U.S. may see improved clarity as the SEC and CFTC strengthen their collaboration. This effort will eliminate past jurisdictional conflicts and create a more structured oversight framework for digital assets.

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Ronny Mugendi

Ronny Mugendi is a seasoned crypto journalist with four years of professional experience, having contributed significantly to various media outlets on cryptocurrency trends and technologies. With over 4000 published articles across various media outlets, he aims to inform, educate and introduce more people to the Blockchain and DeFi world. Outside of his journalism career, Ronny enjoys the thrill of bike riding, exploring new trails and landscapes.

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