Dubai restricts privacy coins and strengthens stablecoin regulations
• Privacy-focused cryptocurrencies banned: From January 12, 2026, Dubai prohibits the use of Monero, Zcash, and other privacy-centric digital assets.
• Stablecoin recognition tightened: Only fiat-backed stablecoins supported by highly liquid reserves will be officially recognized.
• Algorithmic tokens excluded: Algorithmic-based tokens will not qualify as stablecoins under the updated framework.
These measures show Dubai’s regulator drawing a clear distinction between traceable, fully backed digital assets and privacy-oriented or uncollateralized tokens, reflecting a move toward stricter regulatory oversight of crypto activities.
