Circle Internet Group Secures Regulatory Approval to Expand Middle East Operations as Money Services Provider.

Circle Internet Group, the company behind stablecoin USDC, has secured regulatory approval to expand its operations in the Middle East. The approval from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market allows Circle to operate as a money services provider. This move aims to further establish Circle's presence in the region and provide USDC holders with greater access to the market.

Circle Internet Group, the issuer of the USDC stablecoin, has secured regulatory approval to expand its operations in the Middle East. The approval from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market allows Circle to operate as a money services provider. This move aims to further establish Circle's presence in the region and provide USDC holders with greater access to the market [1].

The approval comes as Circle continues to grow its global stablecoin strategy. The company has recently seen a significant increase in the circulating supply of USDC, with a 40% growth in 2025, reaching $62 billion [1]. This expansion follows Circle's compliance with the EU's MiCA regulations and the launch of USDC in Japan through a partnership with SBI Holdings [1].

Circle's move into the Middle East is strategic, given the region's forward-looking approach to digital finance and Web3 infrastructure. The UAE, in particular, has emerged as a magnet for crypto and fintech innovators, with clear regulations supporting growth [1]. The approval allows Circle to pursue licensing in the UAE under Abu Dhabi's digital asset framework, positioning the company to contribute significantly to the region's digital finance landscape [2].

To support fintech innovation, Circle has also partnered with Hub71, Abu Dhabi's tech ecosystem. This collaboration includes initiatives like ADGM's digital regulatory sandbox, providing startups with resources and mentorship [3]. Circle will contribute its stablecoin expertise to a community of over 500 startups and VC partners.

While the in-principle approval indicates Circle has fulfilled the initial requirements for financial activities in ADGM, the stablecoin issuer will need full regulatory approval to fully operate in the region. The approval is a significant step towards establishing USDC as a viable alternative for payments and remittances in the Middle East, offering faster and cheaper transactions compared to traditional banking systems [1].

In conclusion, Circle's regulatory approval to expand its operations in the Middle East is a testament to the growing demand for stablecoins and the region's forward-thinking approach to digital finance. This move positions Circle to play a pivotal role in the Middle East's financial ecosystem, leveraging its stablecoin infrastructure to boost financial services in the region.

References:
[1] https://coinpedia.org/news/usdc-issuer-circle-approved-in-abu-dhabi-taps-into-middle-east-crypto-boom/
[2] https://coinpedia.org/crypto-live-news/circle-secures-uae-approval-to-boost-usdc-operations-in-the-middle-east/
[3] https://coinedition.com/circle-adgm-approval-usdc-expansion-uae-stablecoin/