Circle Secures ADGM License to Expand USDC Services in UAE
Circle has obtained the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Financial Services Permission (FSP) license, allowing it to operate as a Money Services Provider within the UAE. This license was issued by ADGM's Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). With the FSP license, Circle can now offer USDC for business payments, settlements, and other financial use cases across the UAE.
To lead its Middle East and Africa operations, Circle appointed Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, formerly of Visa, as managing director. This move supports Circle's efforts to expand its presence in the region.
Prior to this, Circle had been recognized in Dubai with USDC and EURC registrations under the Dubai Financial Services Authority crypto regime. The UAE is positioning itself as a global hub for regulated digital assets, exemplified by licenses granted to firms such as Binance.