The crypto world just got a little more mainstream in the UAE. Emirates NBD, one of the country’s biggest banks, has officially launched cryptocurrency trading through its digital banking app, Liv. This move makes it easier than ever for users to buy, sell, and hold digital assets directly from their banking app—no need for third-party exchanges.
A Major Step for UAE Banking and Crypto
For years, crypto enthusiasts in the UAE have been looking for safer and more regulated ways to invest in digital currencies. Now, with Liv X, Emirates NBD is offering exactly that—a secure and government-compliant way to trade cryptocurrencies.
According to the bank, this service is part of its broader push toward digital banking innovation. Given Dubai’s rising status as a crypto-friendly hub, it’s no surprise that traditional banks are finally stepping into the space.
How Does It Work?
- Users can access crypto trading directly through the Liv X app
- Trading is backed by Aquanow, a regulated virtual asset service provider
- Crypto assets are securely stored with Zodia Custody, a firm known for its compliance with Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA)
For now, Emirates NBD hasn't revealed the full list of cryptocurrencies available, but industry insiders expect Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and other major tokens to be part of the offering.
Why This Matters for Crypto in the UAE
Dubai has been pushing hard to become a global crypto hub, and the numbers back it up. Reports estimate that nearly 30% of UAE residents already own some form of cryptocurrency. The market is expected to grow by 8% annually, meaning more financial institutions are likely to follow Emirates NBD’s lead.
Other banks have been hesitant to embrace crypto due to regulatory concerns, but with VARA’s oversight, Emirates NBD is setting a new precedent for what a crypto-friendly bank can look like.
What’s Next?
With Emirates NBD breaking the ice, more banks could roll out crypto trading features soon. The big question now is whether competitors like ADCB or Mashreq Bank will follow suit.
As for Liv users, this could be just the beginning. Many are wondering if crypto lending, staking, or even DeFi services might be next.
For now, though, if you’re in the UAE and looking for a safe and convenient way to trade crypto, it looks like Liv might be worth checking out.