The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has formally recognized USDT as an accepted fiat-referenced token, broadening its availability across nine major blockchains. The move underscores Abu Dhabi's accelerating efforts to build a regulated, institutional-grade digital-asset ecosystem.
Expanded Blockchain Support and Regulatory Scope
The newly approved networks include Aptos, Celo, Cosmos, Kaia, Near, Polkadot, Tezos, TON and Tron. Prior approvals already covered Ethereum, Solana, and Avalanche. Only ADGM-licensed firms are permitted to engage in regulated activities involving USDT on these chains, which may include trading, custody, and payment services within the jurisdiction's rulebook.
Industry Reactions and Strategic Implications
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino praised the UAE's regulatory approach, stating that it “continues to set the global standard for digital asset regulation.” ADGM has been methodically updating its virtual asset framework, treating on-chain activity with the same seriousness as traditional finance. This clarity has attracted heavyweight institutions and differentiated Abu Dhabi from hubs focused on retail traffic.
The expanded approval also boosts interoperability for firms operating in the region, providing clearer settlement rails and a wider array of compliant blockchain options. Whether this translates into meaningful liquidity inflows remains to be seen, but the regulatory groundwork is firmly in place.
FAQ
- What did ADGM approve? The FSRA recognized USDT as a fiat-referenced token on multiple blockchains.
- Who can use USDT under this approval? Only ADGM-licensed firms conducting regulated activities.
- Which blockchains are included? Aptos, Celo, Cosmos, Kaia, Near, Polkadot, Tezos, TON, Tron plus earlier approved Ethereum, Solana and Avalanche.
- Why is this significant? It advances Abu Dhabi's strategy to become a supervised digital-asset hub with institutional-grade standards, backed by billions in committed Web3 capital through the Hub71 ecosystem.
As the UAE continues its long-term strategy pairing strict oversight with aggressive innovation, ADGM's latest move positions Abu Dhabi as a safe harbor for institutions seeking regulated exposure to digital assets.