Hubpay and Aquanow Introduce UAE’s First Regulated Crypto Payment Gateway for Businesses

In a significant advancement for the United Arab Emirates’ financial sector, Hubpay, a cross-border payments platform, has partnered with Aquanow, a leading digital asset infrastructure provider, to launch the nation’s first fully regulated cryptocurrency payment gateway tailored for businesses and small to medium-sized enterprises . This collaboration enables companies across various sectors—including real estate, manufacturing, and general trading—to securely accept cryptocurrency payments alongside traditional fiat transactions.

The introduction of this regulated crypto payment facility comes in the wake of the UAE Central Bank’s Payment Token Services Regulation , which was enacted on 6 July 2024. The PTSR establishes a comprehensive framework for digital payment services in the UAE, particularly those involving cryptocurrency ‘payment tokens’ or ‘stablecoins’. Under this regulation, entities offering payment token services must obtain appropriate licensing or registration from the Central Bank to operate within the country.

Aquanow, recognized for its comprehensive trading and payment solutions in the digital asset space, has been awarded a Virtual Asset Service Provider license by Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority . This license authorizes Aquanow to offer broker-dealer services, management and investment services, and lending and borrowing services related to virtual assets within the Emirate. The partnership with Hubpay leverages Aquanow’s licensed infrastructure to facilitate seamless and secure cryptocurrency transactions for businesses operating in the UAE.

The UAE has been proactive in positioning itself as a global hub for the cryptocurrency industry. Government-owned licensing firm KIKLABB in Mina Rashid, Dubai, now accepts cryptocurrency payments—including Bitcoin , Ethereum , and Tether —for various trade licenses and visas. Additionally, the Dubai Financial Services Authority has announced plans to develop a comprehensive crypto-regulatory framework, further solidifying the nation’s commitment to embracing digital assets.