Revolut to expand in the UAE with new licence secured

Fintech group Revolut is set to expand its Middle Eastern operations with the final approvals secured from regulatory authorities in the United Arab Emirates.

Revolut received an in-principle approval from the central bank of the UAE back in September 2025 and has now announced it has officially secured its Stored Value Facilities (SVF) licence and its Category II Retail Payment Services licence in the Gulf nation.

“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. UAE is one of the most forward-looking financial markets globally, with a strong vision for innovation and financial inclusion,” said Ambareen Musa, the GCC chief executive at Revolut.

“We see tremendous opportunity to contribute to the country’s digital economy by providing consumers with more choice and greater control over how they manage their money. We look forward to deepening our presence in the UAE and bringing more people access to the secure, intuitive and globally connected financial services that Revolut is known for.”

The company will now focus on building out its local product offering, with plans to offer UAE customers access to its financial platform.

“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,” said Mohammad Abdulrahman Alhawi of the UAE Ministry of Investment.

“Revolut’s licensing approval by the Central Bank of the UAE adds to the depth of that ecosystem and reflects the growing international presence that contributes to the knowledge-based economy the UAE continues to build.”