Obtaining crypto license in the UAE

Learn the step-by-step guide to navigate regulations, ensure compliance, and unlock value-added benefits for your business
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Are you looking to explore the lucrative opportunities in the world of cryptocurrency? Securing crypto currency licenses in Dubai is your gateway to a thriving and regulated market. The UAE, especially Dubai, has emerged as a global hub for crypto exchanges and blockchain innovation. This strategic location offers a robust regulatory framework, advanced infrastructure, and a supportive regulatory environment, making it an ideal destination for crypto entrepreneurs and investors.

Dive into our comprehensive guide to understand the process, benefits, and essential steps to obtain a crypto exchange license.

Why the UAE is ideal for crypto business?

Language & geographic advantages

Strategically located, the country offers easy access to the entire eastern hemisphere within an 8-hour flight. English is widely spoken, and most laws are available in English, facilitating smooth business operations.

Legalization of specific activities

Legalizing advanced technological activities such as tokenizing real-world assets, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, metaverse projects, and NFTs.

Clear legal landscape

The legal environment is transparent, and public authorities regularly consult with industry representatives to refine regulations.

Robust banking system

High ratings of the banking system ensure secure and reliable financial operations.

Low tax rates

The country offers a favorable tax environment with low rates, which is attractive for businesses.

Neutrality and transparency

The UAE maintains impartiality regarding the origin of founders and investors, coupled with a clear foreign direct investment procedure.

Language & geographic advantages

Strategically located, the country offers easy access to the entire eastern hemisphere within an 8-hour flight. English is widely spoken, and most laws are available in English, facilitating smooth business operations.

Legalization of specific activities

Legalizing advanced technological activities such as tokenizing real-world assets, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, metaverse projects, and NFTs.

Clear legal landscape

The legal environment is transparent, and public authorities regularly consult with industry representatives to refine regulations.

Robust banking system

High ratings of the banking system ensure secure and reliable financial operations.

Low tax rates

The country offers a favorable tax environment with low rates, which is attractive for businesses.

Neutrality and transparency

The UAE maintains impartiality regarding the origin of founders and investors, coupled with a clear foreign direct investment procedure.

Licensing process for crypto currencies businesses

Setting up a cryptocurrency business in the UAE involves several key steps to ensure compliance with local regulations and secure licensed crypto activities. Here’s an overview of the process:

1
Choosing the license

Select the most relevant business license for your activity, which varies between the free zone and the mainland.

2
Applying for additional licenses

Additional licenses in UAE from virtual crypto assets regulators may be required depending on the activity. This includes obtaining licenses for crypto mining and managing digital assets.

3
Compliance and documentation

Prepare significant documentation, including business plans, white paper, detailed AML/CFT policies, etc., and meet the regulatory requirements set by the virtual crypto assets regulator.

4
Obtaining other permits

Secure any additional permits necessary for specific business activities.  Along with permission, you are required to pay a non-refundable fee, which can range from $25,000 to $50,000 depending on the jurisdiction.

5
Full compliance

Ensure all licenses in UAE and permits are obtained before starting operation to avoid severe penalties.

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How we can help?

Our legal firm provides comprehensive support for businesses looking to establish and license cryptocurrency operations in the UAE. Here’s how we can assist:

  1. Consultation. We offer expert consultations to help you understand the legal and regulatory landscape on the crypto market.
  2. Business model analysis and structuring. We analyze your business model and assist with structuring your business to ensure compliance with local regulations and optimize operational efficiency.
  3. Document preparation and submission. Our team helps gather and prepare all necessary documentation required for obtaining the cryptocurrency license in the UAE and necessary permits for your company.
  4. Regulator interaction. We manage interactions with regulatory authorities, ensuring smooth communication and adherence to all regulatory requirements.
  5. Post-licensing support and consultation. We provide ongoing support and consultation even after the licensing process is complete, helping you navigate any regulatory changes and maintain compliance.

For more detailed information and personalized assistance, please contact our team of experts who are ready to guide you through every step of establishing your crypto business in the UAE.

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Examples of our selected experience:

All cases

Launching WEB3 fintech app in the UAE

We prepared a document for a web3 fintech app (EULA) for launch in the UAE. This project demanded to check through the regulatory requirements regarding the financial sector in the UAE.

Launch of crypto-enabled online casino

We helped in launching an online casino with crypto features. For this we analyzed the business model of our client, and suggested an optimal jurisdiction for his needs. The client also wanted to conduct a token offering, so we prepared a Token Sale Agreement which is crucially required to perform the planned activities. 

Legal support for the launch of a car sharing service in the UAE

Advised the client on the relationship with the application developer, legal aspects of working in the UAE, prepared a full package of documents for working with clients and car rental partners (terms of use of the service, standard car rental agreement, terms of use of rented cars, privacy policy) and protected the client’s brand in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

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Assistance with jurisdiction selection for crypto projects

Assistance with choosing jurisdiction for digital business

Formalization of tokens issuance

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