Authorities in Abu Dhabi have announced a complete prohibition on cryptocurrency mining across agricultural land, with a fine of Dh100,000 introduced for those found violating the directive. The penalty will be doubled for repeat offenses as part of a strict enforcement campaign. The move comes after inspections revealed a number of farms were being used for mining activities, a practice authorities say undermines agricultural sustainability and threatens food security in the region.
The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (Adafsa) confirmed that all services and support to non-compliant farms would be suspended immediately once violations are detected. This includes the withdrawal of agricultural assistance programmes, subsidies, and other benefits provided to registered farms. Officials emphasized that crypto mining not only places heavy demand on electricity but also disrupts biosecurity protocols, potentially putting both plant and livestock sectors at risk. Adafsa reiterated that agricultural land is strictly designated for farming activities, and the use of such spaces for digital currency operations falls outside approved practices.
The fine represents a major escalation in penalties compared to earlier measures. In 2024, authorities had cautioned that fines for illegal crypto mining could reach up to Dh10,000. With the new directive, penalties have risen by 900 percent to Dh100,000, reflecting the government’s zero-tolerance approach. Beyond financial penalties, enforcement teams will take direct action against offenders, including cutting off electricity supply, seizing mining equipment, and initiating legal proceedings through the appropriate judicial channels. Both farm owners and tenants are held equally responsible under the new rules, ensuring accountability across all parties involved in land use.
Adafsa has urged all farmers, landowners, and agricultural workers to adhere strictly to approved land use regulations. Officials warned that attempts to bypass the restrictions not only expose violators to significant fines but also risk long-term suspension of their farming operations. The authority stressed that agricultural land should remain focused on food production and livestock management, which are essential to the country’s food security strategy. This policy reinforces the government’s stance on preventing misuse of resources in sectors critical to sustainability and maintaining compliance with national standards.
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