Abu Dhabi Pioneers AE Coin for Judicial Payments

In a groundbreaking step for the UAE, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has partnered with Al Maryah Community Bank (Mbank) to introduce AE Coin, a UAE dirham-pegged stablecoin, as a payment method for judicial and legal service fees. This historic move marks the Middle East’s first adoption of digital currency in a government entity, revolutionizing how court-related transactions are conducted. By integrating blockchain technology and fintech innovation, this initiative enhances digital government services, streamlines payment processes, and reinforces the UAE’s position as a global leader in digital transformation. This article explores the partnership, its implications, and how it aligns with the UAE’s vision for a smart economy.

A Milestone in UAE’s Digital Transformation

The UAE is renowned for its forward-thinking approach to technology and innovation, with initiatives like the UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025 and Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 driving a smart, sustainable future. The ADJD’s partnership with Mbank to accept AE Coin for judicial payments is a pivotal moment in this journey. As the first government entity in the Middle East to adopt a stablecoin for official transactions, the ADJD is setting a regional benchmark for digital finance integration. This move aligns with the UAE’s ambition to create a cashless society and enhance public service accessibility through cutting-edge technology.

The AE Coin, developed by AED Stablecoin LLC and regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), is a blockchain-based digital currency pegged 1:1 to the UAE dirham, ensuring price stability and security. Unlike volatile cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, AE Coin’s stablecoin nature makes it ideal for everyday transactions, offering low transaction fees and transparent processing. This partnership not only modernizes the judicial system but also paves the way for broader adoption of digital currencies across other UAE government services.

Strategic Partnership for a Modern Judicial System

Counsellor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the ADJD, emphasized that this initiative is a cornerstone of the department’s development strategy. It reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of ADJD, to build a modern judicial ecosystem that embraces rapid digital transformation. “By integrating AE Coin into our payment systems, we are enhancing service efficiency, promoting institutional collaboration, and ensuring swift justice for all,” Al Abri stated.

The partnership with Al Maryah Community Bank, the UAE’s first fully integrated digital bank, leverages fintech advancements to create a seamless payment experience. The ADJD aims to diversify smart payment options, making judicial services more accessible to UAE citizens, residents, and businesses. This initiative supports the UAE’s broader goal of fostering a digital economy that enhances global competitiveness while maintaining trust and transparency in public services.

Al Maryah Community Bank: Driving Fintech Innovation

Al Maryah Community Bank (Mbank), headquartered in Abu Dhabi, is at the forefront of digital banking in the UAE. As a pioneer in providing omnichannel banking experiences, Mbank serves UAE Nationals, expatriates, and businesses with innovative financial solutions. Omar Al Zaabi, Vice Chairman of Mbank, highlighted the partnership’s significance: “Enabling AE Coin payments for judicial services showcases our commitment to banking innovation and supports the UAE’s leadership in digital financial services.”

Obaid Al Kaabi, a Board Member at Mbank, added, “This collaboration enhances public trust in digital transactions and sets a precedent for accessible government services. By integrating AE Coin, we are contributing to a more inclusive financial future.” Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Mbank, further emphasized, “This isn’t just a technological leap; it’s about delivering secure, user-centric financial experiences that align with the UAE’s vision for a digital-first economy.”

AE Coin: A Game-Changer for Digital Payments

Developed by AED Stablecoin LLC, AE Coin is designed to be a secure, efficient, and regulatory-compliant digital currency. Ramez Rafiq, General Manager of AED Stablecoin, noted, “The adoption of AE Coin by the ADJD is a landmark achievement for UAE’s digital finance landscape. It reflects confidence in our homegrown innovation and strengthens the financial infrastructure of the UAE.”

AE Coin operates on blockchain technology, featuring multi-layer encryption to ensure secure transactions. Its 1:1 peg to the UAE dirham guarantees financial stability, making it a reliable choice for government transactions. The AEC Wallet app, available on Apple Store, Google Play, and Huawei AppGallery, allows users to pay for judicial fees by scanning a QR code, offering a fast, cashless alternative to traditional payment methods. This system reduces transaction costs and enhances operational efficiency, benefiting both the ADJD and its users.

Broader Implications for UAE’s Digital Economy

The ADJD’s adoption of AE Coin follows other pioneering initiatives in the UAE. For instance, Tawasul Transport, in collaboration with Mbank and the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), introduced AE Coin payments for taxi fares in Abu Dhabi, marking the world’s first use of a stablecoin in public transport. Similarly, Air Arabia partnered with Mbank to accept AE Coin for flight bookings, further expanding its use in the private sector. These developments highlight the UAE’s commitment to integrating digital currencies across diverse sectors.

The UAE Central Bank’s regulatory oversight ensures that AE Coin adheres to strict compliance standards, fostering public trust in digital transactions. The Payment Token Services Regulation (Circular No. 2/2024) provides a robust framework for stablecoin adoption, positioning the UAE as a global leader in fintech innovation. This initiative aligns with the UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025, which aims to create a seamless, technology-driven public sector.

Benefits for UAE Residents and Businesses

The introduction of AE Coin for judicial payments offers numerous benefits:

• Convenience: Users can pay for court fees, legal services, and other judicial transactions via the AEC Wallet, eliminating the need for cash or lengthy bank processes.
• Speed: Blockchain-based payments are processed instantly, reducing wait times and improving service efficiency.
• Security: Multi-layer encryption and CBUAE regulation ensure that transactions are safe and transparent.
• Accessibility: The AEC Wallet is user-friendly, available on multiple platforms, and supports UAE Pass for seamless account integration.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Low transaction fees make AE Coin an economical choice for government payments.

For businesses, AE Coin enables instant payments, improving cash flow management and reducing reliance on traditional banking systems. This is particularly beneficial for SMEs and corporates navigating the UAE’s dynamic economy.

The Future of Digital Payments in the UAE

The ADJD’s adoption of AE Coin sets a precedent for other UAE government entities to embrace digital currencies. With initiatives like TAMM 3.0 and GovGPT already transforming public services, the integration of stablecoins could extend to sectors like healthcare, education, and municipal services. The UAE Central Bank’s support for blockchain technology ensures that future expansions will maintain security and compliance.

This partnership also strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for fintech and smart mobility. As AE Coin gains traction in public transport, aviation, and now judicial services, it is poised to become a cornerstone of the UAE’s digital financial infrastructure. The collaboration between ADJD, Mbank, and AED Stablecoin LLC exemplifies the UAE’s commitment to innovation, accessibility, and sustainability.