ruya, the UAE’s digital-first Islamic bank, has introduced a new feature allowing customers to buy and sell Bitcoin directly through its mobile app. This rollout marks a significant step in expanding the bank’s Shari’ah-compliant investment services and strengthening its focus on long-term financial planning.
Developed in partnership with Fuze, a licensed virtual asset provider, the new Bitcoin feature has been designed to offer customers a secure, transparent, and fully compliant digital asset experience within an Islamic financial framework.
The launch follows rising interest in digital assets across the UAE. According to Chainalysis’ 2024 Geography of Crypto Report, the region recorded over US$30 billion in cryptocurrency inflows, representing a 42% year-on-year increase. The report also highlights strong growth in decentralised finance (DeFi), with value received by DeFi services up 74%, and decentralised exchange inflows nearly doubling from US$6 billion to US$11.3 billion.
Chainalysis attributes this momentum to clearer regulatory structures from authorities such as the Securities & Commodities Authority and Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority.
Christoph Koster, CEO of ruya, said:
“By enabling our customers to invest in Bitcoin through our platform, we empower them to participate in the digital economy responsibly. All Bitcoin investments available via ruya are fully Shari’ah-compliant, providing customers with confidence and clarity.”
Mo Ali Yusuf, Co-Founder and CEO of Fuze, commented:
“The partnership combines expertise in digital assets with Shari’ah-compliant banking to offer a secure and transparent investment route.”
ruya positions its Bitcoin service within a structured investment framework that discourages speculative behaviour and encourages long-term financial resilience. Customers can easily access Bitcoin trading within the ruya app, supported by oversight from the bank’s Shari’ah supervision committee, competitive fees, and a suite of educational tools—including in-app guidance, webinars, and dedicated support—to help users make informed decisions.
