According to online reports, Khaled Mohamed Balama, President of the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE), said that the country's blockchain-based central bank digital currency (CBDC) digital dirham is expected to be launched in the fourth quarter of 2025. The digital currency will help improve financial stability and combat financial crime. It is reported that digital dirhams will be accepted in all payment channels like physical currency. Balama said the digital dirham will promote the development of innovative digital products, services and new business models while reducing costs and improving international market access.