Dubai: Dubai Finance (DOF) announced an initial technical implementation aimed at facilitating the payment of government service fees through the instant settlement of digital assets in UAE dirhams. This development marks a significant step in the integration of digital currencies within Dubai’s financial ecosystem.
According to Emirates News Agency, the pilot transaction, carried out in collaboration with the Dubai Land Department (DLD), was conducted using the DubaiPay platform, which is managed by the Digital Dubai Authority (DDA) and a digital asset platform licensed by the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE). The transaction was aimed at issuing a Property Map service, serving as a test for technologies and systems in a secure environment prior to an official launch.
Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Director-General of DOF, highlighted the importance of this milestone, noting that it is a proactive step toward the future of digital transactions in Dubai. He emphasized the emirate’s commitment to adopting advanced financial technologies that align with high security and regulatory standards. This initiative is part of DOF’s broader efforts to explore innovative financial solutions and accelerate the transition toward a fully integrated digital economy.
Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Director-General of DDA, stated that the implementation of digital assets for paying government service fees marks a new milestone in Dubai’s digital transformation journey. He pointed out that this step not only diversifies payment options but also supports the Dubai Cashless Strategy and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, enhancing the efficiency of the government services ecosystem.
Omar Hamad Bu Shehab, Director-General of the DLD, expressed that the pilot transaction is a critical first step in assessing the systems’ efficiency and potential for future expansion. He assured that the government is committed to adopting the latest digital technologies and is working closely with partners to ensure technical readiness and regulatory compliance.
Ahmed Ali Muftah, Executive Director of the Central Accounts Sector at DOF, reiterated that the initial implementation is part of a technical evaluation to determine the feasibility of expanding the use of digital assets. He emphasized the importance of verifying the systems’ operational and technical efficiency to ensure security upon their official adoption.
Amna Mohammed Lootah, Director of the Digital Payment Systems Regulatory Division at DOF, confirmed that the transaction was executed successfully in a secure environment with compliance to all regulatory requirements. This achievement aligns with the Dubai Cashless Strategy’s goal to digitize 90% of financial transactions in the emirate by 2026.
Ahmed Al Qassim, Group Head of Wholesale Banking at Emirates NBD, emphasized the bank’s commitment to integrating emerging technologies within a regulated financial framework. He expressed pride in partnering with the Department of Finance to establish a future-oriented financial ecosystem in Dubai.