Dubai Regulators Introduce Improved Virtual Asset-Related Oversight

Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) released an upgraded version of its Rulebooks to improve market integrity and risk management. The crypto regulator expects VARA-licensed companies to comply with the updated rules by June 19, 2025

Dubai’s VARA improved controls over margin trading and token distribution services, synchronised compliance requirements across all licensed activities, while also providing clear definitions for collateral wallet arrangements

VARA Releases Version 2.0 of the Rulebooks

The Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) announced the publication of Version 2 of its activity-based Rulebooks as part of Dubai’s ongoing commitment to constructing a digital asset regulatory framework that can stand the test of time. While the regulator seeks to build a regulatory framework that can withstand the future, it notes the importance of balancing innovation with “robust market safeguards.”

The updated version includes “strengthened controls around margin trading and token distribution services, clearer definitions for collateral wallet arrangements, and harmonised compliance requirements across all licensed activities.” according to the announcement the refinements are designed to promote “greater market discipline, risk transparency, and operational resilience across” Dubai’s virtual asset ecosystem

Version 2.0 of the Rulebooks introduces an improved supervisory mechanism across eight (8) regulated virtual asset activities, including:

Advisory services

Custody services

Exchange services

Broker-dealer services

Lending and borrowing services

Virtual asset management and investment services

Virtual asset transfer and settlement services

Virtual Asset Issuance Rulebook

The VARA announced a 30-day transition period to all impacted virtual asset service providers (VASPs), requiring full compliance by June 19, 2025

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.