Abu Dhabi enforces Dh100,000 fine for cryptocurrency mining on farms
Repeat offences to double Dh100K fine under stricter rules
ABU DHABI – The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has reaffirmed its ban on cryptocurrency mining on farmlands, warning of severe penalties for violations.
The move comes after several farms were found misusing agricultural land for crypto mining, an activity deemed outside the permitted economic uses for agriculture and livestock.
The authority stressed that such practices undermine agricultural sustainability and biosecurity.
Cryptocurrency mining banned on farms
ADAFSA has made clear that farms must be used strictly for agricultural and livestock purposes.
.@adafsa_gov, in line with efforts to safeguard the agricultural sector’s sustainability and biosecurity, has issued a clarification reaffirming the ban on cryptocurrency mining on farms, urging owners and tenants to comply with the responsible use of agricultural lands. pic.twitter.com/CFYVT4a63l
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) September 30, 2025
Mining digital currencies does not fall within the approved economic uses defined by legislation. Farms found violating this rule will face immediate suspension of all services and support programmes offered by the authority.
Penalties
A fine of Dh100,000 will be imposed on those caught engaging in crypto mining on agricultural land, with the penalty doubled in case of repeat offences. In addition to fines, ADAFSA will suspend all farm-related services, disconnect electricity, confiscate mining equipment, and refer cases to the relevant authorities for further legal action.
The 2025 fine represents a sharp rise from 2024, when violators faced penalties of up to Dh10,000. The increase amounts to a 900 per cent jump in fines, reflecting the authority’s tougher stance against improper use of agricultural resources. Both farm owners and tenants found responsible for violations will be penalised under the revised rules.
ADAFSA has once again urged all farm owners and agricultural workers to comply with regulations and avoid non-agricultural activities that jeopardise sustainability. The authority continues to stress that agricultural land must remain dedicated to food production and livestock activities.