Tether’s USDT has received regulatory approval from the Abu Dhabi Global Market, expanding its use across nine major blockchain networks.
Key Takeaways
- Tether’s stablecoin USDT has been approved as an Accepted Fiat-Referenced Token (AFRT) in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).
- The approval extends USDT’s regulated use to nine additional blockchains including Aptos, TRON, and Polkadot.
- This move follows similar recognition for Ripple’s RLUSD and Binance’s expansion in the region.
- Tether’s CEO praised the UAE for leading the way in global crypto regulation.
What Happened?
Tether, the issuer of the USDT stablecoin, announced it has secured official recognition in the Abu Dhabi Global Market. This makes USDT an Accepted Fiat-Referenced Token (AFRT) under the supervision of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). The designation allows authorized ADGM entities to engage in regulated activities involving USDT across multiple blockchain networks. The move is seen as a significant regulatory milestone for Tether, further solidifying its footprint in the Middle East.
Tether’s USD₮ Recognised as Accepted Fiat-Referenced Token in Abu Dhabi’s ADGM for Use on Several Major Blockchains
— Tether (@Tether_to) December 8, 2025
Learn more: https://t.co/PKmF7w5aUx
Tether’s Regulatory Milestone in the UAE
Tether’s approval by ADGM allows USDT to be used not just on the previously approved Ethereum, Solana, and Avalanche blockchains but now also on:
This multi-chain recognition greatly enhances interoperability and usability for USDT, giving licensed financial institutions within the ADGM the legal framework to offer USDT in various regulated financial services. Tether emphasized that this approval is the result of its long-term engagement with the FSRA to demonstrate transparency, resilience, and regulatory compliance.
Industry Reactions and Regional Momentum
Tether’s CEO Paolo Ardoino welcomed the development, stating:
He highlighted that this regulatory recognition showcases the company’s commitment to advancing financial inclusion and innovation around the world.
This regulatory milestone for Tether comes shortly after Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin received similar approval from ADGM, signaling increasing regional acceptance of regulated stablecoins. Additionally, Binance recently became the first crypto exchange to gain full regulatory approval in Abu Dhabi, allowing it to offer custody, trading, and settlement services.
Boosting Abu Dhabi as a Crypto Hub
The UAE, particularly Abu Dhabi, has steadily emerged as a top destination for crypto innovation. By allowing USDT on multiple networks under a single jurisdiction, ADGM is reinforcing its status as a forward-thinking regulator. This strategic move aligns with the UAE’s broader national efforts to integrate blockchain technology while maintaining strong regulatory oversight.
Tether highlighted that this decision opens new avenues for financial institutions in the region to benefit from improved liquidity, blockchain diversity, and enhanced settlement capabilities using USDT.
CoinLaw’s Takeaway
In my experience, regulatory clarity is the number one thing that opens doors for real-world crypto adoption. What Tether has achieved here is more than just adding more chains to its roster. It’s a stamp of trust from one of the most respected financial regulators in the Middle East. The fact that ADGM gave its nod to USDT across nine new chains tells me that stablecoins are maturing into core financial tools. I found this approval not just significant for Tether, but a signal that the UAE is racing ahead in defining the future of compliant crypto finance.
