Ripple's RLUSD Secures Major Regulatory Win as Fiat-Referenced Token in Abu Dhabi

Ripple USD Gains Major Middle East Regulatory Momentum

Ripple announced on Nov. 27, 2025, that its USD-backed stablecoin Ripple USD (RLUSD) was recognized by Abu Dhabi’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority as an Accepted Fiat-Referenced Token, permitting use inside the Abu Dhabi Global Market and signaling broader institutional adoption across the Middle East.

“The FSRA’s recognition of RLUSD as a Fiat-Referenced Token reinforces our commitment to regulatory compliance and trust – two non-negotiables when it comes to institutional finance,” stated Jack McDonald, Ripple’s senior vice president of stablecoins. He added:

With a market capitalization of over $1 billion and growing adoption in core financial uses like collateral and payments, RLUSD is quickly becoming a go-to USD stablecoin for major institutions.

“This momentum is helping drive the next wave of secure, compliant digital asset adoption around the world,” he further noted. The designation follows other regional approvals and reflects ADGM’s reputation for strict oversight.

Read more: Ripple Signals Rapid Expansion With XRP and RLUSD Set to Boost Institutional Collateral

RLUSD, issued under a New York Department of Financial Services Limited Purpose Trust Company Charter, has passed $1.2 billion in market value since launching in late 2024 and carries 1:1 USD reserves, segregation of assets, and third-party attestations.

“The UAE continues to set a global benchmark for digital asset regulation and innovation,” stated Reece Merrick, Ripple’s managing director for the Middle East and Africa. ADGM’s Arvind Ramamurthy added: “We congratulate Ripple on achieving this important milestone.” Ripple expects the clarity to support RLUSD in payments, on- and off-ramps, and capital markets via Ripple Prime. The company also disclosed new activity in Bahrain and Africa, as well as early adoption of its blockchain payments by Zand Bank and Mamo.

FAQ ⏰

• What new recognition did RLUSD receive in Abu Dhabi?
  RLUSD was approved by the FSRA as an Accepted Fiat-Referenced Token for use in the Abu Dhabi Global Market.
• How large is RLUSD’s current market value?
  RLUSD has surpassed $1.2 billion in market value since its late 2024 launch.
• Why is the FSRA designation important for Ripple?
  It enables broader institutional adoption and validates RLUSD’s compliance and reserve standards.
• Which institutions have begun early adoption of Ripple’s payments tech?
  Zand Bank and Mamo are among the early adopters of Ripple’s blockchain payments.