UAE quietly builds $900M+ Bitcoin portfolio via ETFs

By early 2026, the UAE built a $900M+ sovereign Bitcoin portfolio, mainly via BlackRock’s IBIT ETF. Abu Dhabi funds increased holdings, signaling a strategic, long-term diversification move.

By early 2026, the United Arab Emirates had quietly built one of the world’s largest sovereign Bitcoin portfolios, with holdings surpassing $900 million. Over the previous eighteen months, Abu Dhabi-based entities steadily increased their exposure through direct investments in BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) and mining-linked strategies. Mubadala Investment Company played a key role, disclosing a $437 million IBIT position in early 2025. Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi Investment Council (ADIC) expanded its stake to nearly 8 million IBIT shares, valued at about $518 million by late 2025. Al Warda Investments, under ADIC, also reported holding over 8.2 million IBIT shares at year-end. Combined, these positions pushed UAE sovereign holdings past 16 million ETF shares. This accumulation reflects a deliberate, long-term diversification strategy, with state fund representatives highlighting Bitcoin’s role as a strategic reserve asset alongside gold. The UAE’s approach marks a significant shift in institutional positioning within the Gulf and sets a benchmark for other sovereign investors.