Rebecca Cruz Galaxy expands into UAE with a new Abu Dhabi office under ADGM, strengthening its presence in the Middle East digital asset market amid rising regional crypto adoption.
Galaxy expands into UAE as Abu Dhabi welcomes major digital asset players
Galaxy expands into UAE in a strategic move to deepen its presence across the Middle East’s fast-growing digital asset ecosystem. The company announced plans to open a new office under the Abu Dhabi Global Market registration authority, marking a significant milestone in its international growth strategy.
The expansion signals Galaxy’s commitment to tapping into the UAE’s thriving digital finance sector, which continues to attract global crypto institutions and venture capital investors. With Abu Dhabi positioning itself as a premier global hub for blockchain and digital assets, Galaxy’s latest move aligns perfectly with its long-term mission to connect institutional capital with digital innovation.
Galaxy expands into UAE as part of its broader global growth plan
According to company executives, the decision reflects a strong belief in the Middle East’s accelerating role in the global financial landscape. Bouchra Darwazah, Galaxy’s managing director, described the region as a magnet for sophisticated investors and innovators. She emphasized that establishing an Abu Dhabi entity would open new opportunities for collaboration, capital flow, and product development in the digital asset space.
The announcement follows an impressive financial performance for Galaxy in 2025. The firm reported a net income of $505 million in the third quarter, supported by a total equity base of $3.2 billion. This growth underscores its resilience and adaptability amid market fluctuations, solidifying its reputation as a leading digital asset management and infrastructure provider.
Galaxy has remained active in strategic partnerships since 2018, with major investments in blockchain infrastructure and decentralized finance. One of its most notable initiatives this year involves its participation in a $1.65 billion Solana treasury fund alongside industry giants such as Cantor Fitzgerald, Multicoin Capital, and Jump Crypto. By expanding into the UAE, Galaxy is positioning itself to leverage this momentum across new markets that are increasingly embracing Web3 development and institutional crypto investment.
UAE regulatory progress draws global crypto firms
Galaxy expands into UAE at a time when the nation is witnessing a surge in regulatory clarity for digital assets. The Abu Dhabi Global Market and Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority have been instrumental in building transparent and progressive frameworks that appeal to global crypto players.
In recent months, a growing list of major companies has secured operating licenses in the region. Exchanges such as Binance and Bybit have both received regulatory approval to serve local and institutional clients, while stablecoin issuers are rapidly joining the market as well. The ADGM recently granted permission for Ripple to deploy its Ripple USD stablecoin and recognized Tether’s USDt as an accepted fiat-referenced token.
Adding to this momentum, Circle has also been approved as a financial service provider, enabling it to operate its USDC stablecoin under Abu Dhabi’s robust financial supervision. These developments highlight the UAE’s ambition to become a global leader in the digital economy, creating fertile ground for firms like Galaxy to establish a strong foothold.
Galaxy expands into UAE amid Middle East’s growing crypto influence
The move also underscores the Middle East’s transformation into one of the most dynamic markets for digital assets. Over the past two years, regional governments have launched several blockchain-based initiatives aimed at enhancing transparency, cross-border payments, and digital identity solutions.
For Galaxy, this environment presents immense potential to collaborate with sovereign funds, family offices, and private investors seeking institutional-grade exposure to blockchain assets. The UAE’s strategic location, coupled with its advanced financial infrastructure, gives Galaxy a competitive edge in serving clients across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Mike Novogratz, Galaxy’s founder and CEO, has long advocated for building a global network that bridges traditional finance with the digital asset economy. The establishment of an Abu Dhabi office brings this vision closer to reality, allowing the firm to strengthen its relationships with Middle Eastern investors and technology partners.
As Galaxy expands into UAE, it becomes part of a broader wave of institutional players recognizing the region’s influence in shaping the next phase of financial innovation. The firm’s entry not only enhances its operational capabilities but also signals confidence in the UAE’s long-term digital asset strategy.
Disclaimer: Parts of this article were generated with the assistance from AI tools and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and adherence to our standards.
