Ripple Backs Global Expansion as Hidden Road Sets Foot in Abu Dhabi
Mustafa Mulla8 May 20252 min read
In a world where crypto firms often clash with regulators, Ripple is choosing a different path, one that’s quietly reshaping the future of global finance. Ripple’s $1.25 billion deal to acquire Hidden Road isn’t just about expanding services, it’s a strategic bet on Abu Dhabi’s rise as a global crypto and fintech hub. As Ripple plan to open Hidden Road’s new office in Abu Dhabi.
Why Office In Abu Dhabi?
Hidden Road, a digital and traditional asset brokerage firm, is expanding its global footprint by launching an office in Abu Dhabi. This move isn’t just another overseas branch, it’s a strategic leap into the Middle East, a region increasingly open to crypto innovation.
It’s not just about favorable regulations or tax incentives. Abu Dhabi is building a serious financial ecosystem that understands innovation. Ripple’s move to plant Hidden Road’s new office here shows where the real action might be heading next.
With James Stickland, a well-known name in crypto finance, and the UAE CEO at Hidden Road said that the firm is gearing up to serve institutional clients with prime brokerage and clearing services.
Ripple isn’t alone. Circle, the company behind USDC, is also moving in. That’s not a coincidence—it’s a sign of a growing shift. Big crypto firms are finding more than just licenses in Abu Dhabi, they’re finding opportunity.
Ripple’s Bigger Vision
This development comes shortly after Ripple struck a deal to acquire Hidden Road in what’s shaping up to be one of the biggest mergers in the digital asset space. Ripple’s bigger aim is to turn Hidden Road into the world’s top non-bank prime broker.
Abu Dhabi’s regulators are already on board, having granted Hidden Road initial approval. Once the final green light arrives, the company will be able to fully operate and serve large investors in the UAE.
Interestingly, insiders suggest a member of the Abu Dhabi royal family might join the board of the local entity once approval is secured—signaling strong local confidence in the project.
From Crypto Rebels to Global Infrastructure Players
This move represents a larger evolution in crypto. Ripple isn’t just fighting lawsuits anymore, it’s building infrastructure.
Ripple, led by CEO Brad Garlinghouse, plans to invest more fund into Hidden Road, helping it expand services not only in the UAE but also in the U.S., where it recently received approval to operate as a broker-dealer.
Backed by Ripple and strong regulatory support, Hidden Road is becoming a key player in global crypto services for big investors.
