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In a groundbreaking move, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has become the first public entity in the Middle East to accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment for court-related services. This initiative is part of the UAE’s broader digital transformation strategy and reinforces the country’s position as a fintech pioneer in the region.
The ADJD now allows users to pay judicial fees using AE Coin, a UAE-backed stablecoin, through the regulated AEC Wallet. Developed in partnership with Al Maryah Bank, the wallet ensures secure and compliant transactions. This advancement enables both residents and businesses to conveniently settle legal fees with digital currency—streamlining the process while embracing innovative payment solutions.
Dr. Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the ADJD, emphasized that this move aligns with the UAE’s commitment to smart government services and digital innovation. It marks a significant leap in integrating blockchain and fintech into the country’s judicial and administrative systems.
AE Coin, which is pegged to the UAE dirham and governed by AED Stablecoin, has already gained traction within the public sector. It’s being used for payments with the Integrated Transport Centre and Air Arabia, and its expansion into the legal domain signals growing institutional trust in regulated crypto assets.
Al Maryah Bank’s CEO, Mohammed Wassim Khayata, praised the collaboration as a forward-looking step in secure government payment systems. Meanwhile, AED Stablecoin CEO Ramez Rafiq noted that public-sector adoption of AE Coin is steadily rising, with more government departments showing interest.
In parallel developments, the ADI Foundation—alongside First Abu Dhabi Bank and sovereign wealth fund ADQ—is working on another dirham-backed stablecoin, AEDC. Dubai is also moving forward in this space, exploring crypto payment integrations through partnerships with leading blockchain firms.
Abu Dhabi’s decision to accept cryptocurrency for court services is more than a milestone—it’s a statement. It demonstrates how traditional institutions can adapt to the future of finance, setting the stage for widespread adoption of digital currencies across the region’s public sector.
