In a landmark move for the region’s digital future, International Holding Company (IHC), state-backed investment powerhouse ADQ, and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) have jointly announced plans to launch a UAE Dirham-backed stablecoin. The initiative, subject to final regulatory approval, will see the new stablecoin governed by the Central Bank of the UAE and issued through FAB, the largest bank in the Emirates.
Building the Future of Trusted Digital Payments
This pioneering stablecoin is set to redefine how payments are made and how business is conducted, both within the UAE and globally. Designed as a secure, regulation-backed digital currency, it will power transactions for citizens, companies, and institutions with efficiency, speed, and unprecedented transparency. New digital frontiers—such as AI-powered payments and machine-to-machine financial interactions—will also be supported.
By harnessing blockchain innovation, the initiative positions the UAE as a leading hub for fintech and next-generation blockchain infrastructure, while reinforcing its reputation for forward-thinking digital policy.
Powered by ADI Blockchain: Local Innovation, Global Connectivity
The new stablecoin will operate on the ADI blockchain, a cutting-edge platform built in the UAE by the ADI Foundation. The ADI blockchain combines compliance and scale, serving as a bridge between traditional finance and blockchain networks for real-world impact. With existing partnerships across 20+ governments worldwide, the ADI Foundation is uniquely positioned to distribute secure and scalable blockchain payments on a global scale—empowering even emerging economies to participate fully in digital markets.
Guillaume de La Tour, CEO of ADI Foundation, highlighted:
“This stablecoin is a vital milestone for an inclusive, digitally empowered UAE. ADI blockchain supports secure, transparent, at-scale transactions—showcasing technology Made in the UAE for a global audience.”
Leadership Voices: Collaboration for Innovation
H.E. Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADQ, describes the stablecoin’s launch as “a pivotal step in strengthening the UAE’s digital infrastructure” and a driver of future economic growth.
Syed Basar Shueb, CEO of IHC, called it “a breakthrough in digital currencies,” crediting the partnership’s focus on exploring the vast potential of Web3 payments for both the UAE and beyond.
Hana Al Rostamani, Group Chief Executive Officer of FAB, emphasized the bank’s role as a founding member of a project that will “revolutionize trusted blockchain payments” and fuel the UAE’s fintech expansion.
Transforming Commerce, Finance, and Global Trade
Across industries—from banking to commerce and international trade—the Dirham-backed stablecoin promises to unlock new efficiencies, foster innovation, and create a seamless digital economy. It addresses the demand for secure, instantly verifiable transactions while connecting local users to the broader world of digital finance.
This ambitious project not only serves the UAE’s vision of becoming a top-tier innovation and fintech hub but also sets a new benchmark for the responsible integration of stablecoins and blockchain in the global financial system.
