Bitcoin news: UAE sits on $344 million in BTC mining profits, Arkham says

CoinDesk

by Shaurya Malwa

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is emerging as one of the world’s most significant players in the cryptocurrency space, with its state-backed Bitcoin mining operations generating substantial profits. According to data from Arkham Intelligence, the UAE currently holds approximately $450 million worth of Bitcoin, with unrealized profits totaling around $344 million. This impressive figure highlights the nation’s ability to leverage its infrastructure and resources to create a robust crypto ecosystem. The operation is supported by royal family-linked mining rigs, which produce about 4 Bitcoin per day, ensuring steady growth despite recent market volatility. The UAE’s mining initiative dates back to 2022 when Citadel Mining, linked to Abu Dhabi’s royal family through International Holding Company, established large-scale facilities on Al Reem Island. By 2023, Marathon Digital (now MARA Holdings) partnered with Zero Two, a UAE-based firm, to develop 250 megawatts of immersion-cooled mining capacity—a major deployment in the region. This partnership underscored the UAE’s commitment to building a sustainable and scalable crypto infrastructure. The country’s approach to Bitcoin mining differs significantly from other nations like the U.S. or U.K., where holdings often result from asset seizures. Instead, the UAE has focused on long-term mining operations, accumulating most of what it produces. This strategy not only converts energy resources into a strategic digital reserve but also allows for compounding growth over time. Unlike many miners forced to sell during market downturns, the UAE has continued to accumulate Bitcoin, even as prices have fallen from their 2025 highs. The UAE’s success in the crypto space is particularly notable given its ability to maintain mining activity despite broader market volatility. While other miners may struggle to stay afloat during periods of weakness, the UAE appears to be strengthening its position by holding onto its mined assets and reinvesting profits into infrastructure development. This approach not only reflects a deep understanding of the cryptocurrency market but also positions the nation as a leader in the global crypto economy. For readers interested in crypto, the UAE’s story offers valuable insights into strategic asset management and the potential for sovereign nations to leverage digital assets as part of their financial strategies. The country’s ability to generate consistent profits through mining and its commitment to long-term growth highlight the importance of patient capital and infrastructure investment in the cryptocurrency space. As Bitcoin continues to evolve, the UAE’s approach serves as a model for other nations looking to establish themselves in this rapidly growing sector.

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Originally published on CoinDesk on 2/19/2026