Abu Dhabi Bans Crypto Mining on Farms Over Energy Consumption Concerns

The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has reinforced its prohibition against cryptocurrency mining operations on agricultural farms throughout the emirate. Officials warned that violators will face severe penalties including substantial fines and disconnection from essential government services. This regulatory action comes after recent inspections uncovered farms illegally repurposing agricultural land and electricity infrastructure for cryptocurrency mining activities, which violates existing farming regulations. ADAFSA emphasized that crypto mining operations fundamentally conflict with the designated agricultural purpose of farmland, which is strictly reserved for crop cultivation and livestock rearing. Penalties include fines of 100,000 AED (approximately $27,000 USD) for first-time offenders, with fines doubling for repeat violations. Additional consequences include electricity disconnection, equipment confiscation, and suspension from agricultural support programs. Both property owners and tenants may face further legal action from relevant authorities. The significant energy demands of cryptocurrency mining have prompted similar restrictions globally, including Russia's recent six-year mining ban across ten regions due to electricity consumption concerns.