The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has imposed a strict ban on cryptocurrency mining on farms, announcing heavy penalties for those who violate the rules.
Authorities found that some farms were diverting electricity from agricultural activities to crypto mining operations. ADAFSA emphasized that farmland must be strictly reserved for crop cultivation and livestock breeding, warning that mining activities conflict with agricultural regulations.
Under the new rules, farms caught engaging in crypto mining will face a fine of 100,000 dirhams (around $27,000). Repeat offenses will result in doubled penalties, power disconnection, confiscation of mining equipment, and loss of access to government agricultural support programs. Offenders may also be referred to other authorities for further legal action.
Globally, crypto mining continues to face bans due to its high energy consumption. Last year, Russia prohibited mining across 10 regions for six years. With this move, Abu Dhabi firmly shuts the door on using farmland as an alternative source of income through crypto mining.
