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Emirates NBD, one of the largest banking groups in the Middle East, has officially launched cryptocurrency trading services through its digital banking platform, Liv X. This innovative move allows customers in the UAE to buy, hold, and sell major cryptocurrencies, marking a significant step towards mainstream crypto adoption in the region.
Key Takeaways
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Emirates NBD introduces crypto trading on the Liv X app.
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Customers can trade five major cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ether, Solana, XRP, and Cardano.
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The service is powered by partnerships with Aquanow and Zodia Custody.
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This launch reflects a growing trend of crypto adoption in the UAE.
Overview of the New Service
On March 5, 2025, Emirates NBD announced the launch of its cryptocurrency trading services via the Liv X app, in collaboration with Aquanow, a licensed crypto asset service provider. This initiative allows retail clients in the UAE to engage with five prominent cryptocurrencies:
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Bitcoin (BTC)
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Ether (ETH)
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Solana (SOL)
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XRP (XRP)
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Cardano (ADA)
The Liv X app not only facilitates trading but also offers custody services through Zodia Custody, which received a strategic investment from Emirates NBD in late 2024.
Significance of the Launch
The introduction of crypto trading by Emirates NBD is seen as a pivotal moment for digital assets in the UAE. Phil Sham, CEO of Aquanow, emphasized that this collaboration illustrates how traditional banking can integrate with digital assets, providing consumers with secure and compliant access to the evolving digital economy.
Marwan Hadi, head of retail banking at Emirates NBD, expressed the bank's commitment to innovation, stating that this move aligns with the UAE's high crypto adoption rate. He noted, "Offering cryptocurrency on Liv X is the next step toward the overall vision of Liv being a pioneer in innovation and excellence."
The Growing Crypto Landscape in the UAE
The UAE has been at the forefront of embracing cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. With a rapidly growing number of crypto users and businesses, the region is positioning itself as a global hub for digital assets. The launch of the Liv X app's crypto trading feature is expected to attract more users and enhance the overall crypto ecosystem in the UAE.
Conclusion
Emirates NBD's foray into cryptocurrency trading through the Liv X app marks a significant milestone in the integration of traditional banking with digital assets. As the UAE continues to lead in crypto adoption, this initiative not only reflects the changing landscape of finance but also sets a precedent for other banks in the region to follow suit. With the backing of established financial institutions, the future of cryptocurrency in the UAE looks promising and poised for growth.