Dubai, UAE – 30 April 2026
A leading provider of blockchain-based enterprise solutions for both traditional and digital finance, has announced the expansion of its footprint in the UAE with the opening of a new Middle East and Africa (MEA) regional headquarters at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The move marks a significant step in scaling its regional operations as demand for regulated, blockchain-powered payment and custody solutions continue to accelerate.
Originally establishing its MEA headquarters in Dubai in 2020, Ripple has since seen the Middle East grow into a key contributor to its global business. The new DIFC office reflects this momentum, providing capacity to double its regional workforce and enhance support for clients and partners across the Middle East and Africa. These include major institutions such as Zand Bank, Ctrl Alt, Garanti BBVA, Absa Bank and Chipper Cash.
Ripple’s regional growth has been supported by key regulatory milestones. In March 2025, the company became the first blockchain payments provider to secure a full license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), enabling it to deliver regulated cross-border digital payment services from within DIFC. More recently, the DFSA recognized RLUSD, Ripple’s US dollar-backed stablecoin, as an approved crypto token, allowing its use by regulated firms operating in the Centre.
Reece Merrick, Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa at Ripple, said the region has become a critical driver of the company’s global growth. He noted that increasing demand from regional businesses for regulated blockchain infrastructure continues to shape Ripple’s expansion strategy, with the enlarged Dubai-based team set to strengthen client support and accelerate regional adoption.
Commenting on the announcement, His Excellency Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority, said:
“Ripple’s expansion within DIFC underscores the confidence that leading digital asset firms place in Dubai as a global hub for blockchain innovation. Since establishing its regional headquarters here, Ripple has demonstrated how digital asset companies can scale responsibly connecting institutions to the future of finance through regulated and robust technology. We look forward to further strengthening our partnership as the company continues to grow its presence in DIFC.”
