Ruya Bank has launched in-app Bitcoin trading, becoming the first Sharia-compliant bank to allow customers to buy and sell cryptocurrencies using a mobile banking app.
The bank said the move was approved by its Islamic board of directors and was built in collaboration with regulated partners that handle custody and payments.
Shariah recognition and partnership
Ruya said it is working with Fuze, a regulated crypto asset infrastructure provider, to manage the custody, settlement and compliance of trades.
The bank positioned the service as a sharia-approved investment option rather than a tool for quick speculation. Reports reveal that Bitcoin will be the first digital asset to be offered at launch.
UAE crypto flows and local context
According to figures circulating at the time of launch, from July 2023 to June 2024, the UAE recorded approximately USD 30 billion in crypto asset inflows, an increase of 42% year-on-year.
Ruya Bank CEO: Bitcoin complies with Islamic law — a new chapter in Islamic digital finance https://t.co/sijVZfAJne @unlockbc @myruyabank #Islamic Finance #isBitcoin Halal #Sharia Compliant #bitcoin #Adopted #Bitcoin News #United Arab Emirates
— Unlock Blockchain (@unlockbc) December 8, 2025
This growth comes as UAE regulators set clearer rules for virtual asset service providers, increasing banks and fintechs’ appetite to add crypto functionality within their regulated apps.
How the offering works
Users who meet the bank’s requirements can buy and sell Bitcoin within the Ruya app. Trade execution and storage will be handled by Fuze based on the arrangements described.
The bank said its Sharia committee has reviewed its structure to ensure compliance with Islamic financial principles, with a focus on transparency and clearer risk management.
Potential implications for Muslim investors
For Muslims who have avoided cryptocurrencies due to religious concerns, this would give them a regulated route within established banks.
Analysts cited in the report suggested the move could encourage more conservative savers to hold Bitcoin when they otherwise would not.
Implementation will depend on demand and whether other Islamic banks follow Luya’s example.
what happens next
Ruya indicated that the company plans to consider offering other virtual assets later, depending on demand and regulatory clarity. According to reports, the bank wants to position the service as part of long-term wealth planning rather than short-term transactions.
This step marks a noteworthy moment. A Shariah-compliant bank has introduced Bitcoin transactions to its core app with a regulated custodian.
This could expand access for Muslim investors in the UAE and beyond, while also testing how the rules of Islamic finance can be combined with modern crypto systems in practice.
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