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USDT has secured a major position inside Abu Dhabi’s digital asset system. ADGM now classifies the token as an accepted fiat-referenced asset across nine more networks. This step widens the paths available to institutions that want to build payment, custody and settlement products anchored in the world’s most used stablecoin. Earlier approvals had already covered Ethereum, Solana and Avalanche. The new expansion gives Abu Dhabi a broader multi-chain base for regulated digital finance.
Tether highlighted the move in a short update on social media before releasing the full statement.
Tether’s USD₮ Recognised as Accepted Fiat-Referenced Token in Abu Dhabi’s ADGM for Use on Several Major Blockchains
Learn more: https://t.co/PKmF7w5aUx— Tether (@Tether_to) December 8, 2025
Licensed entities inside ADGM can now offer supervised services involving USDT on Aptos, Celo, Cosmos, Kaia, Near, Polkadot, Tezos, TON and TRON. The classification places USDT inside a defined rule book instead of informal permissions. Institutions can now integrate the token into internal systems without dealing with unclear treatment or case-by-case interpretations.
ADGM assigns tokens to specific categories so firms know exactly how an asset can be held, moved or used in customer products. This approach removes the uncertainty that often slows down stablecoin integration inside payment companies, custody platforms and investment firms. USDT now sits inside a framework that supports trading desks, settlement tools and regulated crypto services.
ADGM has spent several years building a clear structure for digital assets. This work has attracted exchanges, custody providers and settlement platforms that want steady oversight. Stablecoins are now a central focus because they support remittances, treasury operations, and cross-border trade, which sit at the heart of the region’s economy.
Regulators are not leaning toward a single issuer. Ripple’s RLUSD already holds the same classification as a fiat-referenced token. A dirham-pegged token backed by major Abu Dhabi groups is also under review. The region appears to be preparing for an environment where several stablecoins operate together, each serving different institutional needs.
These steps give financial firms more control over how they design settlement rails. When a stablecoin has a clear classification, institutions can use it in compliance workflows without facing gaps in interpretation or licensing.
The UAE wants to position itself as a central hub for global trade and financial flows. Stablecoins fit into that path because they offer predictable settlement tools that work across borders. With defined categories for tokens, ADGM gives banks, custodians and payment firms a clear method for adding USDT into their systems.
The global stablecoin market has passed 300 billion dollars, and USDT remains a key asset for exchanges, OTC desks and international transfers. Clear rules help major issuers access regulated channels more easily. Abu Dhabi has avoided short-term guidance by setting firm classifications that apply across different networks.
With this recognition in place, licensed firms inside ADGM can start expanding their product lines. Trading desks can increase on-chain settlement options. Custody providers can support multi-chain storage under defined rules. Payment companies can add USDT rails directly rather than through indirect arrangements.
Binance also secured full ADGM authorization covering an exchange, clearing unit and broker-dealer.
With USDT and RLUSD approved, and a possible dirham token on the horizon, Abu Dhabi is shaping a stablecoin system that supports both international activity and local settlement needs. The next phase depends on how banks, fintech companies and platforms adopt these tools in real products and pilot programs.
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