In a groundbreaking move for the UAE’s financial sector, Zand, the nation’s AI-driven digital bank, has launched Zand AED, the country’s first regulated, multi-chain UAE dirham-backed stablecoin on public blockchains. Approved by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), Zand AED marks a significant step in integrating the national currency into the global digital economy. The stablecoin is fully backed one-to-one by UAE dirham reserves, held in segregated and regulated accounts to ensure complete redemption value. Real-time transparency is maintained through independently audited smart contracts and reserve attestations, ensuring trust and accountability. Available across multiple public blockchains, Zand AED enables fast, borderless settlements and seamless integration for developers, enterprises, and financial institutions. Issued by Zand Trust, a subsidiary of Zand Bank PJSC, the stablecoin is licensed and supervised by the CBUAE and holds a BBB+ rating from Fitch Ratings. Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of Zand, described the launch as a breakthrough for the UAE, emphasizing its role in advancing the nation’s position as a global leader in financial innovation. Michael Chan, CEO of Zand, highlighted the stablecoin’s potential to bridge traditional and decentralized finance, unlocking next-generation payments, tokenization, and digital asset innovation. With the global stablecoin market projected to reach $3 trillion in the coming years, Zand AED positions the UAE at the forefront of regulated digital finance, offering a secure and future-ready foundation for institutions, Fintechs, and developers operating in one of the world’s most advanced financial ecosystems.