In a major first for digital finance, Dubai will soon allow residents to pay for government services using cryptocurrency. The move, announced during the Dubai FinTech Summit, marks a historic step in integrating blockchain-backed currencies into public sector operations.
The Department of Finance (DOF) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with global digital asset platform Crypto.com. Once operational, the system will enable residents to pay for government services using crypto, which will be converted into AED before being transferred to DOF accounts.
This would make Dubai the first government in the world to implement crypto payments across a wide range of public services, not just as part of isolated pilot projects.
Through Crypto.com’s digital wallet, users will be able to settle fees in crypto while the platform ensures the government receives the correct value in AED. Importantly, stablecoins — a type of cryptocurrency pegged to fiat currencies — will be used to limit volatility and ensure transaction security.
The initiative supports the Dubai Cashless Strategy, which aims for 90% of all public and private transactions to be cashless by 2026. Officials project that this transition could add over AED 8 billion per year to Dubai’s economy.
Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai, and Abdulrahman Al Saleh, Director General of DOF, both stressed that the move reflects Dubai’s commitment to economic innovation and future-ready digital services.
While other countries have debated crypto regulations or explored pilot initiatives, Dubai is positioning itself as a global leader in integrating crypto with real-world governance systems. Once live, the rollout could reshape how cities worldwide think about blockchain and government finance.
