Dubai government bank Emirates NBD launches cryptocurrency trading

The new feature is available to the bank’s customers through the Liv X app

06.03.2025 - 13:15

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2 min

What’s new? Dubai government-owned Emirates NBD Bank has launched cryptocurrency trading through its digital banking subsidiary Liv. The feature is available to the bank’s customers on the new Liv X app, custodial partnered by Zodia, a division of Standard Chartered bank.

Material by CoinDesk

What else is known? Liv uses Aquanow’s infrastructure to offer cryptocurrency services, a digital asset platform licensed by the Dubai Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA).

Dubai has been developing as a crypto hub over the years, offering clear licensing rules and incentives for crypto firms. Leading crypto exchanges including Binance, Crypto. com, and OKX among others have permits to operate in the region.

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Last fall, UAE authorities abolished VAT on cryptocurrency transfers and conversions and allowed registered crypto firms to refund previously paid taxes. At the same time, Dubai tightened rules for promoting crypto services, requiring companies to accompany their investment products with a risk disclaimer.

Later, Sui’s blockchain team partnered with local blockchain company Ghaf Group to launch an incubator for developers and entrepreneurs in Dubai.

Also last October, the UAE’s largest bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), launched a blockchain loan program with collateral in tokenized assets.

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