Adnoc Distribution has announced a strategic Memorandum of Understanding to introduce AE Coin digital payments across its retail network in the UAE. As the first retail fuel and convenience provider in the UAE to embrace this innovative stablecoin, Adnoc Distribution is setting a new standard by allowing customers to make purchases using AE Coin. This significant development is in partnership with Al Maryah Community Bank.
AE Coin, the UAE’s premier Central Bank-licensed and AED-backed digital asset, will be integrated into Adnoc Distribution’s payment systems at key customer touchpoints, including fuel stations, Adnoc convenience stores, and car washes.
The agreement was signed at Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW), aligning with the UAE’s goal to promote secure and regulated digital-payment solutions. This initiative also strengthens Adnoc Distribution’s commitment to providing customers with diverse payment options.
As part of the agreement, Adnoc Distribution will incorporate AE Coin through the AEC Wallet by Al Maryah Community Bank, enabling secure, instant blockchain transactions. This marks an early regulated use of digital token payments in the retail sector, showcasing the responsible adoption of next-generation payment technologies on a national level.
Eng. Bader Saeed Al Lamki, CEO of Adnoc Distribution, commented: “Accepting AE Coin across our network signifies a pivotal step in enhancing mobility and convenience retail through innovation. By adopting blockchain transactions, we’re leveraging advanced technologies to provide superior customer experiences and prepare our services for the future. We’re proud to support the UAE’s vision of becoming a leader in secure digital payments.”
Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Al Maryah Community Bank, remarked: “This collaboration is a landmark for the UAE’s financial and retail sectors. By facilitating virtual asset payments across the Adnoc Distribution network, we’re bringing the future of digital transactions to millions. It exemplifies how secure, regulated blockchain can simplify payments, boost convenience, and accelerate the UAE’s digital transformation.”
Ramez Rafeek, General Manager of AED Stablecoin LLC, added: “AE Coin was designed to make secure, instant, regulator-approved virtual asset payments a daily reality. Adnoc Distribution’s use of AE Coin is a significant milestone for the UAE and sets a benchmark for the global virtual asset industry. This partnership demonstrates how licensed payment tokens can be utilized in mainstream retail, turning crypto’s promise into tangible utility.”
The MoU backs vital national strategies, including the UAE Digital Economy Strategy, aiming to lead in global blockchain innovation and enhance efficient, transparent digital-payment ecosystems.
This partnership, by integrating virtual asset payments into a major retail network, contributes to the UAE’s digital economy growth and reinforces its position as a future-ready financial technology hub.
