DIFC Courts Approve Digital Custody and Blockchain Intelligence Services
The courts have introduced specialized services for complex cases, adding digital custody and blockchain intelligence through approved third-party providers. Moreover, the initiative aligns with the Growth Strategy 2026–2030 and supports evolving digital-economy disputes. These services will apply on a case-by-case basis, provided parties demonstrate clear necessity. Consequently, the courts continue to broaden their portfolio of technology-focused judicial tools.
Additionally, the new services strengthen the courts’ practical approach to modern justice. By offering optional secure custody and advanced analytics, the courts aim to protect integrity and transparency. As a result, proceedings involving digital assets can meet higher technological standards. Meanwhile, the courts retain full discretion over when these services apply.
Digital custody and blockchain intelligence in practice
Under the initiative, Zodia Custody will provide secure and neutral custody for disputed digital assets during proceedings. Furthermore, the custodian is backed by major financial institutions, including Standard Chartered and Emirates NBD. Zodia Custody UAE operates under FSRA regulation in ADGM as Tungsten Custody Solutions Ltd, following its acquisition of Tungsten earlier this year.
At the same time, Crystal Intelligence will deliver on-demand blockchain tracing and investigative support. Its services will assist with case management, compliance, and enforcement in complex matters. In addition, the platform offers transaction monitoring, multi-hop tracing, sanctions screening, and fund-flow visualization. These tools will also support oversight of the Digital Assets Wills service and staff training.
Judicial perspective and future outlook
HE Justice Omar Al Mheiri, Director of the DIFC Courts, said the Courts have invested significantly in building expertise to address rapidly evolving financial and technological disputes linked to the digital economy. Al Mheiri noted that permitting the use of specialized third-party providers enables stronger safeguards for assets, improved data verification and greater assurance for court users, in line with international best practice.
The initiative, he added, further strengthens the Courts’ ability to resolve complex digital-asset cases efficiently and securely. As a result, the services aim to enhance trust, enforceability, and procedural integrity. Meanwhile, the courts plan to evaluate additional providers in coming years to ensure neutrality and security.
Zane Suren, Managing Director for Commercial, Middle East and Africa at Zodia Custody, said the growing adoption of digital assets makes the integration of specialized custody and blockchain intelligence services into legal proceedings both timely and essential. Zane Suren added that the collaboration reflects the courts’ forward-looking engagement with digital asset service providers and reinforces Zodia Custody’s expanding presence in the UAE.
Navin Gupta, CEO of Crystal Intelligence, described the appointment as a defining milestone for blockchain intelligence in judicial proceedings. Navin Gupta said the company’s investigative and monitoring capabilities will help the DIFC Courts maintain the highest standards of fairness, efficiency and transparency when adjudicating digital asset disputes, reinforcing the institutional credibility required for court-grade case management and enforcement.
