Abu Dhabi Bans Crypto Mining on Farms, Citing Energy Use

Abu Dhabi's Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has enforced a strict ban on cryptocurrency mining on farms in the emirate. This decision aims to uphold the integrity of agricultural land, which is designated for crop cultivation and livestock raising. Farms detected mining cryptocurrencies will incur hefty penalties, including fines of 100,000 dirhams (approximately $27,000), which will double for repeat violations. In addition to fines, violators may face disconnection from government services, confiscation of mining equipment, and loss of access to agricultural support programs. This regulation is part of a broader initiative to manage energy consumption, as cryptocurrency mining significantly escalates energy demands—a concern that has led to similar bans globally. ADAFSA emphasizes that such repurposing of farmland is incompatible with its intended use.

Source 🔗