MasterCard report: one in seven UAE SMEs accept crypto as payment

A recent MasterCard Dreamonomics research has shown that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UAE are among the world’s most active users of digital assets for business payments.

The report which surveyed 18 markets around the world, found that 1 in 7 UAE SMEs (14%) accept cryptocurrency as payment, while 10% are already paying business expenses in stablecoins. Interest in AI-powered fraud and security protection is also high.

Further more 68% of SMEs globally are prioritizing predictability over fast growth, with just 57% of SMEs in UAE saying that. When it comes to customers, 55% (compared to 61% globally) would prefer building deep relationships with customers even if their reach is more limited.

Mark Elliott, division president, East Arabia at Mastercard, noted that the findings reveal a very ambitious SME community in the UAE, from the adoption of digital assets and stablecoins to strong interest in AI-powered security solutions. He noted, “Entrepreneurs are increasingly looking for technologies that can help them operate more efficiently, pursue new opportunities and compete more effectively.”

Nearly half of UAE SMEs (48%) are interested in AI-powered fraud and security protection from their financial provider, well ahead of the 41% global average.

Two-thirds of UAE SMEs (67%) are excited about the possibilities of AI for their business.

Some 57% of UAE SMEs prioritize predictability over fast growth, compared with 68% globally. This places UAE entrepreneurs among the most growth-focused in the study.
Readiness to back new opportunities. Fewer than half (47%) say they avoid risks to keep their finances predictable, compared with 54% globally.

Nearly three-quarters (72%) say it is critical that their business tools are connected and work well together.

Earlier this year, in response to Middle East instability, Mastercard launched Built Small. Moving Strong. a regional resilience and support program to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) navigate rising costs, supply chain issues, and economic changes.

It has galvanized a coordinated, ecosystem-led approach that combines financial tools and digital enablement to help SMEs maintain continuity while strengthening long-term resilience. The platform also supports Mastercard’s commitment to bring 500 million people and small businesses onto their pathways to financial health by 2030.