The UAE has struck a deal to unlock billions of dollars in funds for Iran. The agreement, reported by Reuters on June 12, represents one of the most significant financial arrangements between Gulf states and Iran in recent memory.

The total value of the deal is estimated between $10 billion and $20 billion, depending on which regional sources you ask. Over $3 billion has already been delivered to Iran.

From asset freezes to billion-dollar transfers

The funding is designed to persuade Iran to stop targeting the UAE, following Iran’s missile and drone attacks on UAE territory during the escalating US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

Earlier in 2026, the picture looked completely different. Back in March, the UAE was actively considering freezing Iranian assets as a response to those very same attacks.

Iran’s broader financial playbook

Tehran is reportedly pursuing similar financial arrangements with other nations in the region, seeking to build a network of funding sources that would help offset the impact of international sanctions.

Notably, this particular deal does not appear to involve cryptocurrency or digital assets. Iran has, in other contexts, explored using digital currencies as a tool for sanctions evasion, including efforts related to transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz.