Abu Dhabi has been ranked as the fifth in the Crypto Friendly Cities Index 2025, according to a new report entitled “The Future is Onchain” by migration platform Multipolitan. Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, tops the list of 20 cities and is followed by Hong Kong, Zurich in Switzerland, Singapore respectively.
The five metrics that were assessed in naming the top 20 cities included clear legal status of cryptocurrencies, robust economic growth, high-income classifications, quality of life, and not just regulatory havens.
Ljubljana, home to the non-profit Blockchain Alliance Europe, has widely embraced the new digital assets, with hundreds of retail venues accepting crypto payments.
Most crypto-friendly indices focus only on tax advantages, but the reality is far more complex. While tax policies matter, regulation, legal clarity, and real-world adoption are equally crucial in determining a city’s crypto friendliness, the report said.
Besides Abu Dhabi, three other cities in the GCC region – Muscat (seventh), Doha (12th) and Riyadh (14th) also figure in the index.
The report also said that Dubai has been the global adoption leader with an astounding 25.3% of the population holding crypto, and the Emirate stands unmatched in adoption rates, boosted by proactive government policies and clear regulations that have turned Dubai into a thriving crypto hub.
New research from Chainalysis showed that the Middle East has been one of the fastest-growing crypto markets globally, with Dubai emerging as a top destination for high-net-worth “crypto whales (those holding large amounts of such assets).” The city’s prime allure lies in its completely tax-free personal income structure—a stark contrast to the heavy tax burden whales face in the US or Europe.
Trading Volumes
Coming to the trading volume, the US, home to some of the largest exchanges and institutional investors, dominates in trading volume, recording a massive $2.07 trillion. This immense activity cements the US as a critical node in global crypto finance.
Slovenia topped trading volume per crypto owner, averaging $240,000 per individual, suggesting high per-user trading activity and concentrated wealth. Cyprus follows at $174,000, while Hong Kong stands at $77,000 per user, highlighting these regions as places where crypto wealth is concentrated.
Regarding crypto ATMs, Sydney leads the way with 330 crypto ATMs and retail locations, followed by Hong Kong (201) and Ljubljana (155)—showcasing cities with real-world crypto integration, the report said.
India, the world’s most populous nation, boasts 118.9 million crypto holders, making it the largest crypto community worldwide. Despite regulatory hurdles, its retail investors continue to drive massive market participation, underscoring India’s growing influence.
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