The Central Bank of the UAE launches the "Digital Dirham Platform" for instant financial settlements.
The Central Bank of the UAE launches the "Digital Dirham Platform" for instant financial settlements for companies.

The Central Bank of the UAE on Saturday, November 14, 2026, announced the official launch of a new operational phase of the Digital Dirham Platform, designed to settle commercial and financial payments instantly between institutions and companies operating in the UAE, as part of the financial sector’s digital transformation strategy.

Lower transfer costs and settlement times reduced to seconds
The new platform uses distributed ledger technology, or blockchain, along with highly secure cloud systems. This enables domestic and cross-border financial transactions to be conducted around the clock at very low cost. The technology removes the need for traditional intermediaries in bank transfers, helping companies accelerate the flow of capital.

Advanced cybersecurity standards and data protection
The Central Bank said the Digital Dirham infrastructure is subject to the highest internationally recognised encryption and cybersecurity protocols. It also applies strict anti-money-laundering controls and ensures full regulatory compliance among all banks and financial institutions participating in the system.

Strengthening the UAE’s position as a global fintech hub
The achievement marks a key step in the UAE’s financial infrastructure transformation programme. It also reflects the Central Bank’s commitment to developing next-generation payment solutions that support the growth of the digital economy and attract more global financial technology companies.