ruya, UAE’s digital-first Islamic bank, now allows customers to buy and sell Bitcoin directly through its mobile app.

The feature is part of ruya’s broader investment offering aimed at supporting Islamic wealth management and long-term financial planning.

Developed with Fuze, a licensed virtual asset provider, the service is designed to be secure, accessible, and compliant with Islamic financial principles.

The launch comes as interest in digital assets grows across the UAE.

Chainalysis’ 2024 Geography of Crypto Report recorded more than US$30 billion in cryptocurrency inflows between July 2023 and June 2024, a 42% year-on-year increase.

The report also noted marked growth in decentralised finance activity.

The value received by DeFi services rose 74%, while decentralised exchange inflows increased from roughly US$6 billion to US$11.3 billion.

Chainalysis attributes this expansion to clearer regulation from authorities such as the Securities & Commodities Authority and Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority.

“By enabling our customers to invest in Bitcoin through our platform, we empower them to participate in the digital economy responsibly. All Bitcoin investments available via ruya are fully Shari’ah-compliant, providing customers with confidence and clarity,”

said Christoph Koster, CEO of ruya.

Mo Ali Yusuf, Co-Founder and CEO of Fuze said,

“The partnership combines expertise in digital assets with Shari’ah-compliant banking to offer a secure and transparent investment route.”

The bank positions the service within a structured investment framework that discourages speculative behaviour and focuses on long-term financial resilience.

Customers can access Bitcoin trading within the ruya app, supported by oversight from the bank’s Shari’ah supervision committee, competitive fees, and educational tools including in-app guidance, webinars, and dedicated customer support.

Featured image credit: ruya