ADGM Recognizes Tether’s USDT for Regulated Use on Leading Blockchain Networks

Highlights:

• ADGM recognizes Tether’s USDT for use on nine major blockchain networks.
• The approval boosts stablecoin regulation and financial innovation in the UAE.
• Tether’s USDT joins Ethereum, Solana, and Avalanche under ADGM’s approved networks.

Tether, the largest company in the digital assets industry, has received regulatory approval in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The stablecoin has been officially recognized by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) as an Accepted Fiat-Referenced Token (AFRT). The move enables authorized companies to provide regulated activities with USDT on multiple major blockchains.

The newly blockchain-approved include Aptos, Celo, Cosmos, Kaia, Near, Polkadot, Tezos, TON, and TRON. This authorization builds upon a previous acknowledgment of USDT on Ethereum, Avalanche, and Solana. Almost all of the major USDT-supported networks are now approved to be used within ADGM’s framework.

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

UAE Strengthens Role in Digital Asset Regulation

Tether’s announcement is a result of close engagement with the FSRA to promote transparency and compliance. The approval is an indication of the stability and reliability of Tether’s USDT. ADGM Authorized Persons are now able to incorporate the token under regulated offerings. Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino commended the UAE in terms of leadership in digital finance.

He noted:

“This milestone underscores Tether’s commitment to global financial inclusion and innovation.”

The development aligns with the long-term financial modernization strategy of the UAE. It links the gap between traditional and decentralized systems while ensuring high levels of oversight. By doing so, Abu Dhabi continues to establish itself as a hub for digital asset growth.

Interoperability and Liquidity Gain Momentum

Multi-chain approval provides USDT with a stronger presence within cross-chain interoperability. It enables the use of USDT in a wide variety of decentralized applications and financial devices. This cross-function increases liquidity, the provision of settlement solutions, and international dealings.

Under the AFRT by the FSRA of ADGM, regulatory protections are still maintained. These measures ensure stability while aiding the development of decentralized finance (DeFi). Furthermore, approved organizations in ADGM can become more flexible when serving customers in blockchain ecosystems.

Moreover, the decision provides developers and institutions with a path to embrace USDT within different chains in a compliant manner. It also allows broader integration of blockchain without compromising investor protection or operational oversight.

Competitive Approvals Reflect Regional Growth

ADGM recognizing Tether’s USDT follows similar moves in the region. In the same jurisdiction, Ripple’s RLUSD recently obtained AFRT status. Moreover, crypto exchange Binance received full permission to provide trading and custody services in ADGM today.

Major milestone 🏁#Binance is the first-ever digital assets trading platform to secure a full suite of licenses from FSRA under @ADGlobalMarket.

This marks a breakthrough moment that raises global standards for regulation, security, and trust.

It reflects our commitment to… pic.twitter.com/ItRofJoAOC

— Binance (@binance) December 8, 2025

These approvals reflect the rapidly growing engagement of the UAE in global crypto regulations. They demonstrate a unified approach towards balancing innovation and strict adherence to regulations. As a result, Abu Dhabi is becoming an increasingly popular entry point to the Middle East market for more companies.

Meanwhile, Tether continues developing its ecosystem through strategic initiatives. The Tether-backed Oobit payment project launched into the U.S. market with the assistance of Bakkt. It allows crypto-based tap-to-pay transactions settled in fiat through Visa’s network. The move reinforces the strategy of Tether to bridge crypto to real-world utility. It also promotes its long-term objective of creating a more inclusive and interoperable financial system.