Dubai introduces payment of taxes and fines with cryptocurrency

In May 2025, Dubai's Department of Finance (DOF) signed a memorandum of understanding with Crypto.com 's international digital asset platform authorizing the use of cryptocurrency to pay for public services, including taxes and fines. Dubai became the first city in the world to implement such an initiative at the level of the entire public sector.

The agreement is aimed at implementing a strategy for the transition to a cashless economy - Dubai Cashless Strategy. Thanks to the use of blockchain technology, residents of the emirate will be able to pay for government services through the Crypto.com digital wallet, which will convert cryptocurrency into UAE dirhams and transfer funds to the accounts of the Department of Finance.

The Executive Director of Central Accounts of DOF Ahmad Ali Meftah said that this innovation is not just a new way of payment, but a sustainable model of digital finance of the future. Technical integration is already in the process of being implemented, and the function will become available to individuals and businesses in the near future.

Dubai Cashless Strategy, which supports Dubai D33 's economic agenda, aims to bring the share of cashless transactions in the public and private sectors to 90% by 2026. Authorities estimate this could bring more than 8 billion dirhams to the emirate's economy each year.

A key element of the new payment model will be the use of stablecoins - cryptocurrencies tied to fiat currencies, which will ensure the stability and security of transactions. The move is part of Dubai's broader strategy to strengthen its position as a global center for financial innovation.^[1]

Notes