The Central Bank of the UAE has published a comprehensive report on the Digital Dirham project, setting out achievements to date and summarising ongoing research and development as it moves toward officially launching the UAE’s central bank digital currency in the near term. The report outlines the design principles and policy frameworks underpinning the Digital Dirham, with reference to best practices and standards issued by the International Monetary Fund and the Bank for International Settlements. The publication describes the Digital Dirham as a digital alternative to physical money for online, in-store, commercial and peer-to-peer payments, supported by a platform for issuance, trading and use, including a digital wallet for individuals and businesses. It highlights collaboration with the financial sector and strategic partners, and sets out intended capabilities including offline usability, smart contracts and cross-border transactions, alongside objectives such as improving payment efficiency and enabling access for unbanked users and non-residents in the UAE. The report places the initiative within the Central Bank’s Financial Infrastructure Transformation programme launched in 2023 and notes that a cross-border application has already been launched and a real-value retail pilot conducted to test design, technology and use cases.
Central Bank of the UAE 2025-07-31
Central Bank of the UAE publishes progress report on Digital Dirham CBDC ahead of near-term launch
The UAE Central Bank's report on the Digital Dirham project details achievements and ongoing R&D as it nears the launch of the central bank digital currency. It outlines design principles, policy frameworks, and references standards from the IMF and BIS. The report highlights collaboration with the financial sector, intended capabilities like offline usability and cross-border transactions, and aligns with the Central Bank’s Financial Infrastructure Transformation programme.