Dubai Charities Can Now Receive Crypto Donations Under IACAD Initiative
Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) introduced a new service allowing registered charities in the emirate to receive donations in cryptocurrencies and other virtual assets. Announced on Dec. 20, 2025, the initiative is part of broader efforts to modernize philanthropic infrastructure and make it easier for donors—domestic and cross-border—to contribute using digital payment methods.
The change could expand fundraising options for charities and help Dubai further position itself as a fintech-friendly center. IACAD’s move also underscores the need to balance innovation with safeguards: charities accepting crypto will operate alongside existing regulatory and anti‑money‑laundering frameworks to ensure transparency and accountability. For donors and NGOs, the service offers faster settlement and potentially lower costs, while regulators will be watching implementation and compliance closely.