Dubai’s DMCC in project to launch world’s first digital ‘water’ token

Dubai : In a groundbreaking initiative, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Aqua-Index, a company specializing in water commodities trading, to support the launch of the world’s first digital token backed by freshwater resources.

The new digital asset will be directly linked to verified, drinking-quality water stored in global reservoirs. The project aims to transform the way water is traded, valued, and managed worldwide, introducing a more transparent and liquid market for a resource increasingly under pressure.

“This partnership provides a practical mechanism to unlock new liquidity and transparency across global water supply chains,” said a joint statement from DMCC and Aqua-Index.

How the Water Token Works

The token will allow investors, traders, hedgers, and even the general public to trade, hold, or take delivery of freshwater as a commodity. Although DMCC will not directly own or manage the token, the collaboration will offer its member companies access to essential trading and hedging products, as well as insight into global water usage and pricing.

Launching the ‘DMCC Water Centre’

DMCC’s Executive Chairman and CEO, Ahmed Bin Sulayem, highlighted the global urgency surrounding water scarcity:

“Nearly half the world’s population experiences water scarcity for at least part of the year, yet water is the only critical resource without a mature, regulated market. This partnership with Aqua-Index is a vital step in correcting that imbalance.”

He also announced the formation of the ‘DMCC Water Centre’, which will serve as a hub for water-related innovation, fostering global dialogue and attracting leading companies in the sector to establish a water-focused ecosystem in Dubai.

This initiative positions Dubai at the forefront of commodities innovation, aligning financial technology with sustainable resource management.