The United Arab Emirates has mined over $453 million in Bitcoin, with most of it apparently being held for the long term. Binance founder Changpeng Zhao stated he encouraged the UAE’s mining strategy. Analysts suggest the country’s total Bitcoin holdings, including treasury investments, could exceed $1 billion.
Binance founder Changpeng Zhao stated on February 19, 2026, that he contributed to encouraging the United Arab Emirates in its Bitcoin mining strategy. This follows new data showing the country has mined over $453 million in BTC.
Arkham Intelligence reported that the UAE, through its partner Citadel, has mined around $453.6 million in BTC and appears to hold a majority. The last major outflows from related wallets were approximately four months ago.
According to Arkham, the UAE currently holds about $344 million in unrealized gains, excluding operational costs. The data suggests the country is not currently selling its mined Bitcoin, indicating a long-term treasury plan.
Commentator Pete Rizzo amplified the discussion, claiming the UAE now views BTC as a store of value and may hold over $1 billion worth. UAE authorities have not publicly confirmed the total size of any sovereign Bitcoin holdings.
CZ has a history of engaging governments to encourage digital asset adoption. Under his leadership, Binance signed an MoU with Kazakhstan to support crypto infrastructure development.
His latest statements reaffirm his stance that Bitcoin mining can help diversify economies with abundant resources. The UAE is a crypto-friendly country with regulatory frameworks like Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority.
At the time of reporting, BTC was trading at $66,333. The broader crypto market has experienced increased volatility amid shifting macroeconomic conditions.
