Ripple Opens MEA HQ in Dubai DIFC to Double Team

Ripple has opened a new headquarters for its Middle East and Africa operations in Dubai's International Financial Centre, creating space to double the size of its regional team as demand surges for regulated blockchain-based payment and custody services.

The expansion, announced this week, builds on Ripple's presence in Dubai since 2020. The company stated that the Middle East now represents a significant portion of its global customer base, including financial institutions such as Zand Bank, Ctrl Alt, Garanti BBVA, Absa Bank and Chipper Cash. The new facility in the DIFC will enable Ripple to scale support for clients and partners across the region.

Ripple's growth in the area has been bolstered by key regulatory approvals. In March 2025, it became the first blockchain payments provider to receive a full license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority, permitting regulated cross-border digital payment services within the DIFC. More recently, the DFSA approved Ripple's dollar-backed stablecoin, RLUSD, as a recognised crypto token, allowing its use by regulated firms in the centre.

"In recent years the Middle East has become an increasingly vital driver of Ripple's global...