USDC Issuer Circle Approved in Abu Dhabi, Taps Into Middle East Crypto Boom

Circle’s push into the Middle East just got a major push – with a regulatory thumbs-up from Abu Dhabi that could change the game for stablecoins in the region. 

Circle, the company behind USDC, the world’s second-largest stablecoin, has scored In-Principle Approval (IPA) from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). 

Here’s putting it in simpler words – Circle’s been given a major go-ahead to operate as a money services provider in the UAE – and it’s one step closer to full licensing.

This gives it a strategic foothold in a region that is moving fast on digital finance, while the majority of the world is still figuring things out. 

Circle Is Going Where the Action Is

This is a calculated expansion – and a very good one.

Let’s be honest: the Middle East, and especially the UAE, has become a magnet for crypto and fintech innovators and it’s not hard to see why. With clear regulations, a forward-looking approach, and a serious appetite for Web3 infrastructure, Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a launchpad for the next phase of finance and thus, crypto.

“The UAE is paving the way for responsible innovators to build the internet financial system,” said Jeremy Allaire, Co-Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Circle.

The organization wants to build long-term here, in a place where regulation supports growth instead of stifling it. 

It’s also great timing-wise! Just weeks ago, Circle launched a cross-border payments network to expand USDC utility, which now has a circulating supply of $62 billion, up more than 40% in 2025. Let’s also not forget that Circle also quietly filed for a U.S. IPO at the start of this month. The Middle East move fits right into that momentum.

Circle Joins Forces with Hub71

Circle intends to build bridges wherever it can, and is planting deeper roots in Abu Dhabi through a new partnership with Hub71.

Circle will work with Hub71 on programs through ADGM’s digital regulatory sandbox, giving founders access to grants, institutional connections, hackathons, and mentorship. The company will also join Hub71’s Digital Assets specialist ecosystem, contributing its stablecoin expertise to a community of 500+ startups and VC partners.

“Circle’s expertise will enrich our digital assets ecosystem, providing Hub71 founders with greater access to resources, mentorship, and growth opportunities. Through this partnership, we are enabling the adoption of leading digital financial infrastructure that supports startup growth and drives the evolution of Web3 and digital finance from Abu Dhabi.” said Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71.

Stablecoins Are Going Global – And Circle Knows It

Circle was the first major stablecoin issuer to comply with the EU’s MiCA regulations, and just last month, it launched USDC in Japan through a partnership with SBI Holdings.

Why does this matter?

Because according to rwa.xyz data, there are $230 billion in stablecoins now in circulation, and growing fast. This isn’t a niche market anymore. What started as tools for crypto traders is now becoming a real-world alternative for payments, remittances – even better than traditional banks!

By planting a flag in Abu Dhabi, Circle is signaling confidence: that regulation and innovation can grow together, and that the Middle East is ready for its stablecoin era.