Dubai Charities Begin Accepting Crypto Donations Under IACAD Initiative

Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department has launched a new service enabling charities in the emirate to accept cryptocurrency and virtual asset donations.

Establishing a Regulated Framework

The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) has introduced a new service allowing charitable associations and institutions in the emirate to accept donations in cryptocurrency and other virtual assets. The initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to digital transformation and innovation in humanitarian work, offering modern options for donors while ensuring transparency and regulatory compliance.

According to a media statement, the IACAD has issued clear policies governing fundraising through virtual assets, designed to protect donor funds and guarantee accountability. Training workshops have already been held to guide charities through the operational requirements of adopting the service.

Mohammed Musbeh Dhaahi, executive director of the charitable work sector at IACAD, said the move is a qualitative step for the region.

“Launching the service to receive donations through virtual assets reflects our commitment to advancing the charitable work ecosystem in Dubai and providing innovative solutions that facilitate donors’ access to approved charitable channels,” Dhaahi said. “At the Department, we are keen to ensure the highest levels of governance and transparency through clear policies and precise regulatory procedures that protect donors and support the sustainability of humanitarian work.”

Aligning with Global Philanthropic Trends

Dhaahi added that charitable associations and institutions in the emirate can now apply for preliminary authorization to practice this activity. He said it is intended to ensure that the service is delivered within a safe and regulated environment aligned with Dubai’s future directions.

Dubai’s move aligns with a growing international trend among nongovernmental organizations. Save the Children, for example, recently launched a bitcoin fund to diversify its donor base and tap into the expanding cryptocurrency economy.

Read more: ‘Out-of-the-Box Solutions’: Save the Children Unveils Bitcoin Fund to Counter Traditional Aid Failures

Both initiatives highlight how humanitarian organizations are leveraging blockchain technology to expand access to global donors, ensure transparent, traceable transactions and modernize fundraising ecosystems for long-term sustainability. By embracing cryptocurrency donations, Dubai strengthens its position as a hub for innovation in charitable work.

FAQ 💡

• What did Dubai’s IACAD launch? Charities in the emirate can now accept donations in cryptocurrency and virtual assets.
• Why is this significant for Dubai? It supports the city’s digital transformation strategy and strengthens its role as a hub for innovation.
• How are donors protected? IACAD enforces clear regulatory policies to ensure transparency, accountability, and fund security.
• How does this compare globally? It mirrors NGO moves like Save the Children’s Bitcoin fund, expanding access to worldwide crypto donors.