Ripple has officially launched its new Middle East and Africa (MEA) regional headquarters at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). This expansion will allow Ripple to double its regional team size to meet the increasing demand for regulated blockchain payment and custody solutions. Since establishing its MEA headquarters in Dubai in 2020, Ripple has achieved significant milestones, including becoming the first blockchain payment service provider to receive full licensing from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) in March 2025. The company's USD-backed stablecoin, RLUSD, has also been approved by the DFSA as an authorized crypto asset within the DIFC. Reece Merrick, Managing Director for Ripple in the MEA, emphasized the company's commitment to the region's growth. His Excellency Arif Amiri, CEO of the DIFC Authority, highlighted Ripple's expansion as a testament to Dubai's status as a hub for blockchain technology. Ripple's regional clients include Zand Bank, Ctrl Alt, Garanti BBVA, Absa Bank, and Chipper Cash.