Digital bank Revolut, which supports a global fintech platform currently serving more than 75 million customers around the world, has achieved a regulatory milestone in the United Arab Emirates. On June 17, 2026, the Fintech company confirmed it has obtained full approval for its Stored Value Facilities (SVF) and Retail Payment Services (Category II) licenses from the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE).
This development comes after an in-principle approval granted in September 2025, completing Revolut’s licensing journey in the country.
The authorizations underscore the firm’s dedication to upholding rigorous standards in governance, compliance, and operational integrity while deepening its footprint in one of the world’s most dynamic financial markets.
The licenses mark an important milestone for Revolut’s growth strategy in the UAE and broader Middle East region.
Since receiving preliminary approval last year, the company has actively bolstered its local operations.
This includes growing its team on the ground, enhancing technological infrastructure, and establishing proper frameworks to support sustainable development in the market.
H.E. Mohammad Abdulrahman Alhawi, Undersecretary at the UAE Ministry of Investment, welcomed the news, highlighting the emirates’ appeal as a center for financial innovation.
He noted that the UAE’s strong regulatory framework continues to attract leading international players, reinforcing its vision for a knowledge-based economy.
Alhawi emphasized that approvals like Revolut’s further enrich the local financial ecosystem and demonstrate growing global confidence in the country’s long-term ambitions.
Ambareen Musa, GCC CEO at Revolut, described the licences as a transformative step for the company. She praised the UAE’s progressive approach to financial services, responsible innovation, and inclusion.
“We see tremendous opportunity to contribute to the country’s digital economy by offering consumers greater choice and control over their finances,” Musa stated.
She expressed enthusiasm about expanding Revolut’s presence and delivering secure, user-friendly, and internationally connected services that have become the brand’s hallmark.
With licensing now secured, Revolut is shifting focus toward developing and refining its localized product suite in preparation for a comprehensive market launch.
The company continues to channel resources into technology, operational excellence, and region-specific capabilities.
This ensures that its offerings will align closely with the expectations and requirements of UAE customers while fully complying with local regulations.
Once operational, the platform will provide users in the UAE with access to a comprehensive global financial ecosystem through a single mobile application.
Key features will include multi-currency accounts for holding and managing various currencies, seamless payments via both physical and virtual cards, and efficient money transfers—both domestic and cross-border.
These tools are particularly well-suited to the UAE’s diverse, internationally oriented population, enabling effortless navigation across borders, currencies, and financial systems.
This strategic entry into the UAE represents another phase in Revolut’s broader international expansion efforts.
By securing these critical licenses, the fintech challenger positions itself to play a meaningful role in advancing digital finance in a market known for embracing innovation and fostering inclusive economic growth. As preparations continue in 2026, customers and industry observers will watch carefully for the official rollout of Revolut’s digital banking services in the fast-growing region.