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  • Writer's picturemeowdini

Dubai Court Validates Cryptocurrency as a Legitimate Form of Salary Payment

Dubai's court ruling validates cryptocurrency as a legal salary payment, reflecting the UAE's evolving stance on digital currency in employment contracts.

In a groundbreaking legal development, Dubai’s Court of First Instance has recognized the payment of salaries in cryptocurrency as valid under employment contracts. This marks a significant shift in the United Arab Emirates' approach to digital currencies, demonstrating the nation's progressive stance on integrating Web3 financial transactions into its legal and economic frameworks.


Judge presiding over a case, highlighting the UAE's evolving legal stance on digital currencies.
Dubai Court recognizes cryptocurrency as a valid form of salary payment.

Key Points:


  1. Landmark Ruling: Dubai’s Court of First Instance has officially recognized salary payments in cryptocurrency as valid, reflecting a shift in legal attitudes toward digital currencies in employment contracts.


  2. Case Details: The case involved an employee whose contract included a monthly salary in fiat and 5,250 EcoWatt tokens. The court ruled in favor of the employee, mandating the payment in cryptocurrency without requiring conversion to fiat.


  3. Progressive Legal Approach: The ruling shows the court’s evolving perspective since 2023 when a similar case was dismissed due to the lack of precise crypto valuation. This year’s decision highlights the growing acceptance of cryptocurrency in legal and economic practices.


  4. Legal Consistency: The court’s decision was based on the UAE Civil Transactions Law and Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, ensuring a consistent application of legal principles in wage determinations involving digital currencies.


  5. Implications for the UAE: This ruling is seen as a positive precedent for the further adoption of digital currencies in the UAE, supporting the country’s ambition to lead in the global digital economy.



Dubai’s court ruling is a significant step forward in the UAE's journey toward embracing digital currencies in everyday financial transactions. By recognizing cryptocurrency as a valid salary payment, the UAE is paving the way for broader adoption and innovation within its legal and economic systems. This decision benefits employees and reinforces the UAE's position as a leader in the digital economy.


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