Emirates NBD, the second-largest lender in the UAE, has taken a decisive step into the digital asset arena by publicly describing Bitcoin as “digital gold” and a legitimate store of value.
Key Takeaways
- Emirates NBD labeled Bitcoin “digital gold,” signaling full institutional acceptance.
- The bank now offers in-app crypto trading and institutional custody services.
- It is also considering adding Bitcoin to its own portfolio.
- The move supports the UAE’s push to become a global crypto hub.
- Zero personal crypto taxes continue to attract investors.
The statement marks one of the clearest endorsements yet from a major Gulf bank, signaling that crypto is no longer viewed solely as a speculative instrument but as an emerging macro asset class.
The move reflects a broader recalibration inside the UAE’s financial system, where banks and sovereign institutions are increasingly positioning themselves at the center of global digital asset flows.
Strategic Shift Toward Integration
Through its digital banking arm Liv X, Emirates NBD now allows retail clients to buy, sell and trade cryptocurrencies directly inside its mobile app. This effectively places Bitcoin alongside traditional savings and investment products, embedding digital assets into everyday banking activity.
On the institutional side, the bank has partnered with Zodia Custody – backed by Standard Chartered and Northern Trust – to provide regulated, institutional-grade custody for digital assets. The partnership is designed to meet rising demand from high-net-worth clients and corporate investors seeking secure storage solutions within a compliant framework.
Further underlining the shift, Group CIO Maurice Gravier said on February 24, 2026, that Emirates NBD is actively exploring adding Bitcoin to its own investment portfolio. He pointed to Bitcoin’s evolution from a volatile currency experiment into what the bank increasingly sees as a macro hedge and long-term store of value.
UAE Strengthens Its Position as a Digital Asset Hub
The endorsement comes as the UAE continues to solidify its ambition to become a global center for virtual assets. The country has recorded more than $30 billion in annual crypto inflows, supported by clear regulatory structures and proactive oversight.
In Dubai, the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority oversees virtual asset activity, enforcing strict consumer protection and AML standards. In Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Global Market operates a dedicated digital asset regime through its Financial Services Regulatory Authority, catering largely to institutional participants.
Sovereign-level exposure has also expanded. Entities such as the Abu Dhabi Investment Council and Mubadala have reportedly increased their Bitcoin holdings, with total public exposure surpassing $1 billion by late 2025. This state-backed participation reinforces the perception of Bitcoin as a strategic asset rather than a fringe investment.
Retail Adoption Accelerates
Emirates NBD is not alone. Other UAE institutions, including RAKBANK and Ruya, have rolled out in-app crypto trading services, with some offering Shari’ah-compliant digital asset investment options.
For individuals, this means Bitcoin can now be managed alongside conventional accounts within regulated banking environments. The integration significantly reduces friction for new investors while maintaining legal safeguards.
Tax and Regulatory Edge
The UAE remains one of the most tax-efficient jurisdictions globally for digital asset holders. There is no personal income tax or capital gains tax on crypto held for personal investment. Additionally, as of January 1, 2026, transfers and conversions of virtual assets are generally exempt from the 5 percent VAT.
Crypto ownership, staking and trading are fully legal, provided individuals use licensed platforms operating under VARA or ADGM frameworks. This regulatory clarity – combined with institutional participation – continues to attract capital from both regional and international investors.
With a major bank now formally embracing Bitcoin as “digital gold,” the UAE’s financial sector appears to be moving beyond experimentation and into structured adoption, potentially reshaping how traditional banking institutions engage with digital assets in the years ahead.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Coindoo.com does not endorse or recommend any specific investment strategy or cryptocurrency. Always conduct your own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
Source: https://coindoo.com/major-uae-bank-signals-portfolio-shift-toward-bitcoin/