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Some of the top UAE banks support crypto or blockchain payments.
These services are typically built alongside regulated digital-asset platforms.
Search regulated partners, stablecoins, and in-app trading of cryptos in banks.
The UAE’s crypto banks are among the largest centers for digital assets, with multiple banks having established alliances and introduced services to facilitate crypto trading and payments based on blockchain technology. Regulations have evolved, and traditional financial institutions in the UAE are now embracing innovation, providing retail and institutional clients with increasingly regulated and secure methods of accessing and transferring digital assets directly from their bank accounts.
The following are some of the best banks in the UAE that have undertaken significant efforts in crypto and blockchain:
RAKBANK crypto UAE has made headlines by becoming the first traditional bank in the UAE to integrate regulated crypto trading into its mobile app. Customers can now purchase, sell, or exchange cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and XRP using their AED account through a collaboration with Bitpanda Broker MENA DMCC, a licensed entity by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) in the UAE. It is also an integration that eliminates the need for third-party exchanges and foreign currency conversion.
Also read: Top German Banks Adopting Blockchain
Emirates NBD has already introduced a crypto product through its Liv digital banking platform with the help of Aquanow, a regulated digital-asset platform registered by VARA. Liv X app users can purchase, sell, and trade crypto assets through a secure banking interface. This action indicates that a significant number of UAE banks are utilizing blockchain transfers and cryptocurrencies among retail consumers.
The CBI has entered the blockchain arena through collaboration with Zumo, a digital-asset-as-a-service provider, to examine the tokenized asset framework and long-term digital asset implementation. Although it is not directly related to retail crypto trading, this move indicates that CBI will be involved in facilitating future blockchain-based banking services and, possibly, assist in the institutional or tokenized transfer of cryptocurrencies.
Also read: Top Nations for Crypto Mining Hub in 2025
One of the earliest banks in the country to implement blockchain-enabled payments with the assistance of Ripple's Payment infrastructure is Zand Bank, a fully digital bank in the UAE. Under the Ripple-licensed network by DFSA, it provides blockchain cross-border payments at 24/7.
UAE banks are expected to embrace blockchain and cryptocurrency. RAKBANK is leading the way with its in-app cryptocurrency trading, while Emirates NBD is likely to offer regulated cryptocurrency access to its digital customers. CBI is also considering long-term blockchain infrastructure, and Zand Bank is utilizing Ripple to process blockchain payments. These banks offer great opportunities in regulated, bank-integrated access to crypto or tokenised finance in the UAE. Still, the degree of crypto service offered will depend on your requirements (retail trading versus institutional payments).
Is it possible to purchase crypto directly at RAKBANK in AED?
Yes - through its mobile app, RAKBANK clients will be able to trade in AED through a partnership with Bitpanda.
Is Crypto custody or trading only in Emirates NBD, Liv?
The Liv X app facilitates retail trading of cryptocurrencies through Aquanow, where the transactions are then deposited by their partner.
Does CBI permit its clients to store crypto on account?
Not precisely; the partnership between CBI and Zumo has to do with blockchain innovation, rather than retail crypto custody.
Is the ripple payment of Zand Bank confined to local transfers?
No — Ripple Payments also allows cross-border payments, which are based on blockchain, and allow near-instant payments across the world.
Is Cryptocurrency trading regulated in the UAE?
Yes- RAKBANK/Bitpanda and Emirates NBD/Aquanow partnerships are regulated by VARA or DFSA, and both meet the requirements.
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Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance on cryptocurrencies and stocks. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. This article is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more about the financial risks involved here.
