Revolut secures UAE licences ahead of market launch

By Milan Rojan

Revolut has received its Stored Value Facilities and Retail Payment Services licences from the Central Bank of the UAE, marking a key milestone in its planned expansion into the market.

The approvals have followed an in-principle authorisation granted in September 2025 and have completed the company’s regulatory licensing process in the UAE. Revolut said the licences have represented a significant step in its regional growth strategy and have reflected its focus on governance, compliance and long-term market entry.

H.E. Mohammad Abdulrahman Alhawi, Undersecretary at the UAE Ministry of Investment, said: “The UAE’s position as a global hub for financial services innovation is built on the strength of our regulatory environment and the confidence international companies continue to place in our long-term vision.” He added that Revolut’s licensing approval has added depth to the ecosystem.

The FinTech, which has more than 75 million customers globally, has also said it has strengthened its local presence since receiving the earlier approval, with investment directed towards team expansion, infrastructure and operational readiness. The company has said its next priority will be to prepare its local product offering ahead of a full-scale launch.

Ambareen Musa, GCC CEO at Revolut, said: “Receiving our licences from the Central Bank of the UAE is a pivotal moment for Revolut and reflects our commitment to operating to the highest regulatory standards.” She added that the company has seen “tremendous opportunity” to contribute to the country’s digital economy.

Following completion of the licensing process, Revolut has said it will be able to offer customers in the UAE access to its global financial platform once live. Services will include the ability to hold and manage multiple currencies, make payments using physical and virtual cards, and send money locally and internationally through a single app.

The company has said these capabilities will be aimed at the UAE’s international population, which often requires services that support cross-border money management and multi-currency use.