A recent survey commissioned by eToro has revealed that a significant portion of retail investors in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are gearing up to increase their cryptocurrency investments in 2025. The survey, which gathered responses from 1,000 UAE-based investors, highlights an optimistic outlook toward digital assets in a country known for its progressive stance on financial innovation.
According to the findings, financial goals dominate New Year’s resolutions for 54% of respondents, with aspirations ranging from portfolio diversification to enhancing crypto holdings. While 40% of participants expressed plans to invest more in traditional assets like stocks, bonds, and commodities, 37% identified cryptocurrencies as a key focus area for growth. Real estate also remained a priority for 38% of those surveyed.
In their quest to achieve these financial goals, 51% of respondents indicated they would increase their savings or investment contributions. Popular strategies included meticulous budget tracking (41%), adopting frugal lifestyles (38%), and cutting discretionary spending on shopping and dining (28%).
The survey also revealed a growing interest in income diversification. About 32% of participants plan to launch side ventures in 2025, while 28% intend to switch careers to secure higher-paying roles. According to George Naddaf, eToro’s regional manager, this proactive approach reflects a broader commitment to financial growth and adaptability. “The resolutions for 2025 demonstrate a clear intent to pursue financial security alongside personal development and flexibility in navigating new opportunities,” Naddaf remarked.
The UAE’s favorable regulatory framework has further bolstered confidence among investors. The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) recently granted Tether’s USDt stablecoin official recognition as an Accepted Virtual Asset (AVA). This approval allows licensed firms within its jurisdiction to offer services involving Tether, the largest stablecoin by market capitalization, valued at over $138 billion.
This regulatory support aligns with broader efforts by the UAE to establish itself as a global hub for cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation. For instance, the cryptocurrency exchange OKX recently launched a retail and institutional trading platform in the UAE after obtaining a full license, which includes offering derivatives trading for qualified institutional investors. Similarly, M2, another crypto platform, has introduced a system that enables residents to seamlessly convert dirhams into Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH).
Tether’s USDt, approved for use across prominent blockchains like Ethereum, Solana, and Avalanche, joins a growing list of virtual assets gaining traction in the region. This development follows the UAE central bank’s in-principle approval of the AED Stablecoin under its Payment Token Service Regulation framework.
With such advancements and a robust regulatory environment, the UAE continues to attract major players in the cryptocurrency and blockchain industries. The eToro survey underscores the enthusiasm of local investors who are not only adapting to the evolving financial landscape but also actively seeking to capitalize on the opportunities it presents. As the UAE cements its position as a leader in the global crypto market, its investors appear well-poised to embrace this digital revolution.