The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has solidified its position as the world’s most crypto-engaged nation in 2025, with over 25% of its population owning digital assets, according to a study by financial analytics firm Atmos.
The report, which ranked 10 countries based on ownership rates, adoption growth, public interest, and infrastructure, underscores a shifting global landscape where cryptocurrency transitions from niche investment to mainstream financial tool.
Topping the list with a score of 98.4, the UAE’s dominance stems from a 210% surge in crypto adoption over the past year, coupled with robust search activity (186,000 monthly queries) despite having just one Bitcoin ATM. Singapore follows closely at 97.5, driven by a 24.4% ownership rate and 150% adoption growth, though it lacks physical crypto infrastructure.
The United States ranks third (85.4), leveraging its unparalleled network of 29,834 Bitcoin ATMs — nearly 10 times more than second-place Canada (3,561 ATMs). While U.S. crypto ownership sits at 15.5%, it leads in search volume with 4.2 million monthly queries, reflecting widespread curiosity and market activity. Canada, meanwhile, recorded the highest adoption growth rate (225%) among top nations, lifting its ownership to 10.1%.
Turkey and Germany highlight contrasting drivers of crypto integration. Turkey’s 19.3% ownership rate — third highest globally — is fueled by economic instability, while Germany’s 225% adoption growth, tied with Canada, signals accelerating institutional acceptance despite an 8.2% ownership rate.
Switzerland (58.1) and South Korea (52.2) illustrate mature markets prioritizing digital over physical infrastructure. Switzerland’s “Crypto Valley” sustains an 11.5% ownership rate with minimal growth (90%), while South Korea relies on advanced exchanges rather than its two Bitcoin ATMs.
Atmos CEO Nick Cooke emphasized accessibility and utility as critical adoption factors. “Crypto is no longer speculative in many regions. It’s a hedge against inflation or a step toward digitized economies,” he noted, pointing to Argentina’s 18.9% ownership rate amid chronic currency devaluation.
The study also reveals disparities in regulatory approaches. The UAE and Singapore, both with progressive crypto laws, contrast with Germany’s cautious regulatory framework, which has not stifled its rapid growth. Conversely, Australia’s 1,489 ATMs and 9.6% ownership suggest infrastructure alone doesn’t guarantee high engagement.
As nations navigate this evolution, the report underscores a broader trend: cryptocurrency’s role in redefining financial resilience. With the UAE setting a benchmark in adoption and the U.S. anchoring infrastructure, the race to balance innovation, regulation, and accessibility will likely shape the next phase of global finance.
