Dubai’s Banking Giant Emirates NBD Launches Crypto Trading Services

Emirates NBD, a Dubai government-owned bank, has launched a crypto trading platform, enabling customers to buy, hold, and sell digital assets directly within the Liv X app.

Notably, this new service, starting March 5th, 2025, shows that the UAE is embracing digital currencies. Aquanow, a regulated cryptocurrency company, assists them in ensuring safe and legal operations.

Emirates NBD Offers Crypto Service

Emirates NBD, Dubai’s government-owned bank, has launched cryptocurrency trading services, aligning with the city’s proactive embrace of digital assets. Furthermore, Liv, its branch, launched the service on March 5th, 2025, partnering with licensed crypto provider Aquanow. However, the collaboration leverages Zodia Custody’s secure custody solutions, a company in which Emirates NBD invested in late 2024.

Furthermore, this move reveals the UAE’s broader commitment to the digital asset landscape, a sentiment echoed by Aquanow CEO Phil Sham, who described the launch as “a defining moment for digital assets in the UAE and beyond.”

This shows more people are using cryptocurrency and is a good example of how banks and digital money can work together. Marwan Hadi, who heads retail banking at Emirates NBD, said the bank is focused on new ideas because more people in the UAE want to use cryptocurrency.

“Offering cryptocurrency on Liv X is the next step toward the overall vision of Liv being a pioneer in innovation and excellence. With the highest crypto adoption rate in the UAE, we are keen to launch our own virtual asset offering to capitalize on this trend,” Hadi asserted.

Dubai Pursues Crypto Hub

Dubai’s aggressive pursuit of global cryptocurrency dominance leverages its established position as a Middle Eastern business powerhouse. Emirates NBD offering crypto services shows this plan in action.

Moreover, this expansion aligns perfectly with the UAE’s Vision 2030, a strategic initiative focused on diversifying away from oil, championing technological advancement, and establishing itself as a global digital economy leader.

Additionally, supportive government policies, a welcoming business climate, and strategic investments are fueling this transformation. Notably, the Crypto Tower project, using blockchain for safe deals, shows this. Like Dubai, Hong Kong wants to lead in cryptocurrency, with lawmaker Johnny Ng pushing to build up the city’s Bitcoin fund faster.