Lianlian DigiTech, an AI-driven digital payment provider, announced on 19 May 2026 that it has received a payment services licence from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). The licence allows Lianlian to operate from the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) as its licensed regional headquarters for the Middle East — a step the company describes as a transition from market entry to full regulated presence.
Lianlian holds 68 payment licences and related qualifications across key markets globally and operates a payment network covering more than 100 countries and regions. Its stated focus inside DIFC is on cross-border transaction and settlement infrastructure, working with local banking partners to support fund flows between the Middle East and international markets, particularly connecting China, the region, and beyond.
What this means for our clients
For founders setting up in DIFC or other UAE jurisdictions, the arrival of another DFSA-licensed payment provider expands the options available for compliant cross-border settlement. Businesses with trade flows between China and the Middle East, in particular, now have an additional regulated counterparty to consider when structuring their banking and payments stack. DIFC continues to attract Chinese financial institutions — the DIFC Authority specifically noted the centre's standing as a leading platform for Chinese firms — which can be relevant context when founders are choosing a jurisdiction.
It is worth noting that selecting a payment provider and obtaining your own financial services authorisation are separate decisions. Most operating companies formed in DIFC or UAE free zones use licensed providers like Lianlian as service vendors, not as a substitute for their own regulatory obligations. We help clients map out what licences, banking relationships, and compliance structures their specific business model requires.
You can read the full announcement on the DIFC website at the link above, or book a consultation with Sirius to discuss how the evolving DIFC fintech landscape applies to your company formation or expansion plans.