Gate rebrands to Gate.com, obtaining licenses from MiCA and Dubai VARA. Founder Dr. Han revealed that in October, they will launch the CrossEx cross-exchange platform for professional investors to manage capital centrally. Gate Layer supports Gate Perp DEX and Gate Fun zero-code token platform.

The recent crypto market has experienced extreme fluctuations, with Bitcoin retracing over 30% from its all-time high on one side, and the UAE bustling with various crypto conferences on the other, attracting top institutions and industry veterans. It's hard to imagine that this oil-rich region has now become a new hotspot for the crypto industry. Why exactly are major institutions gathering here and even establishing headquarters? Looking back to 2024, the UAE incorporated the crypto industry into its "2031 National Investment Strategy" and launched the "Tokenization Regulatory Sandbox Guide" in 2025, forming a layered regulatory model with federal and local cooperation. Currently, the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has issued licenses to 36 companies, while the Abu Dhabi Global Market explicitly classifies crypto assets as regulated financial products, effectively resolving the industry's "regulatory uncertainty" pain point and contrasting sharply with regulatory deadlocks in some other regions. It is precisely due to regulatory

Pakistan is set to launch a stablecoin backed by the rupee, aimed at improving payments and financial inclusion. Overseen by VARA, it promotes safe digital transactions and could enhance the financial landscape, positioning Pakistan as a regional digital finance leader.

According to Mars Finance, Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region cryptocurrency exchange CoinMENA announced that it has been acquired by Turkish digital asset platform Paribu at a valuation of $240 million. Reportedly, this transaction also marks the largest fintech acquisition in Turkey to date. Through CoinMENA, Paribu will obtain digital asset licenses from the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority ((VARA)) and the Central Bank of Bahrain to operate in the local markets.

The Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN) protocol peaq has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) to establish a legal framework for on-chain Bots and tokenization machines. The memorandum focuses on peaq's Machine Economy Free Zone, where both parties will collaborate in areas such as VARA's authorized guidelines for new projects, joint training on technology and Compliance, as well as data sharing to support research and regulation.

According to Mars Finance, Liquidity Fintech FZE, a subsidiary of LTP (Liquidity Tech), has obtained "in-principle approval" (IPA) from the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP). This approval allows it to operate virtual asset brokerage and proprietary trading in the UAE and serve qualified and institutional investors as a hub in the Middle East. LTP stated that it will advance the complete licensing application process. VARA is responsible for the licensing and regulation of digital asset activities in Dubai, emphasizing the framework requirements between innovation and investor protection.

Story Highlights Dubai becomes the world’s largest licensed virtual assets market, with AED 2.5 trillion in transactions this year. VARA oversees 40+ licensed crypto service providers, driving transparency and institutional participation. Dubai’s Financial Sector Strategy launches 15 programs to g

Strategic alliance between DMCC and VARA aims to build the next-generation framework for tokenised commodities, strengthening Dubai’s role as a global Web3 and digital asset hub Joint initiatives will include pilot

BitGo secures VARA broker-dealer license in Dubai, expanding regulated crypto services for institutional clients and strengthening MENA market compliance. VARA Approval Confirms Dubai’s Global Regulatory Stature BitGo’s Middle East and North Africa (MENA) division accomplished this achievement.

Dubai has sent a clear message to the global crypto industry — unlicensed operations will not be tolerated. The Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has fined 19 Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), including the TON DLT Foundation, for unauthorized crypto activities and

Dubai’s VARA has fined 19 crypto firms for operating without a license, enforcing strict AML rules to safeguard investors and strengthen market integrity. Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority acted decisively. The authority fined 19 crypto firms for unlicensed operations. This aggressive

Dubai's regulator has imposed fines on 19 crypto companies for engaging in unlicensed activities and market violations, enforcing immediate stop orders and reinforcing a strict stance against such operations.

Dubai’s financial authorities continue to tighten regulations on the rapidly expanding cryptocurrency market, with recent actions targeting unlicensed firms operating within the emirate. As Dubai positions itself as a global crypto hub, regulators aim to enforce compliance, protect investors, and

First MultiVM Blockchain for RWAs: MANTRA becomes the first Layer 1 to natively support both EVM and CosmWasm smart contracts, enabling seamless development with familiar tools and optimized infrastructure for real world assets. Compliance Built In: Backed by its VARA-regulated VASP license, MANTRA

Dubai's VARA fined Fuze for AML violations, including unlicensed virtual asset transactions. Fuze admitted to the breaches and outlined a remediation plan while enhancing its leadership and governance. It continues to operate under full licensing and seeks to meet regulatory standards.

Dubai once again stands at the forefront of the global Crypto Assets regulation wave, becoming the first jurisdiction to officially approve a cryptocurrency options license. This groundbreaking move not only solidifies Dubai's position as a model for the integration of digital asset innovation and Compliance but also brings new development opportunities for global institutional investors and the Crypto Assets industry.

Laser Digital, Nomura's crypto subsidiary, obtained a license from Dubai's VARA to offer OTC crypto derivatives. As a pioneer in this regulatory environment, it aims to provide simple, vanilla options to build a robust crypto ecosystem.

Ripple partners with Ctrl Alt to provide custodial services for tokenized title deeds in Dubai, following the city's launch of its first tokenized real estate initiative. Ctrl Alt, now Ripple's first custody client in MENA, has secured a VARA license.

Ripple enables Dubai's first government-backed real estate tokenization using XRP Ledger, allowing investments starting at AED 2,000. Ctrl Alt obtains VARA license, completing tokenized property sales in minutes, showcasing the effectiveness of blockchain in real estate.

Daily selected Web3 news by Bitpush editor: [UAE Refutes Rumor: "Golden Visa Not Applicable to Cryptocurrency Investors"] According to Bitpush news, reports from Abu Dhabi state that the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP), Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), and Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) issued a joint statement denying false reports regarding the UAE issuing golden visas to digital currency investors. ICP clarifies that the Golden Visa does not include cryptocurrency investors, but is applicable to qualified categories such as real estate investors and entrepreneurs. SCA emphasizes its commitment to regulating the financial industry and securities services, while VARA denies the claim of issuing Golden Visas to Dubai virtual asset investors and warns investors to obtain information from reliable official sources to avoid misinformation or fraud. Three regulatory agencies jointly urged the public and investors to act cautiously and refer to government official websites and approved sources.

The claim that TON stakers would receive residency permits in the UAE was quickly denied by authorities, including Dubai's VARA. Despite Pavel Durov's support, Binance's CZ questioned the validity of the report, which initially led to a surge in TON's value before declining after the refutation.

Dubai, UAE, June 23rd, 2025, Chainwire GAP 3 Partners (“G3”), a Dubai-based institutional virtual asset advisory firm, today announced that it has been granted an Operational License by the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). With this advisory license, G3 becomes the first

Nauru's parliament has established a virtual asset regulatory authority (VARA) to oversee digital assets, prevent financial crimes, and attract investment to strengthen its economy and position as a regional digital leader.

Written by: Beosin With its convenient geographical location, clear government support for cryptocurrency policies, and tax-friendly environment (0% personal income tax, 9% corporate income tax, and signing 146 agreements to avoid double taxation), the UAE has become one of the global centers for cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation. Notably, in the realm of virtual asset regulation in the UAE, ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) and VARA (Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority) have different characteristics and positioning. When analyzing the regulated virtual asset licensing system in the UAE, it is necessary to distinguish between the two major jurisdictions of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This article will explore the key contents and differences in compliance regulation between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. By understanding the regulatory requirements and differences between the two regions, cryptocurrency practitioners can better conduct their business, ensure their legal compliance operations, and promote the healthy development of the entire cryptocurrency industry.

> This article will explore the key contents and differences in compliance regulation between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. By understanding the regulatory requirements and differences in both places, encryption practitioners can better conduct their business, ensure their legitimate and compliant operations, and promote the healthy development of the entire encryption industry. Written by: Beosin With its convenient geographical location, clear government support for encryption policies, and tax-friendly environment (0% personal income tax, 9% corporate income tax, and 146 signed double taxation avoidance agreements), the UAE has become one of the global centers for cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation. It is worth noting that in the regulatory field of virtual assets in the UAE, ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) and VARA (Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority) have different characteristics and positioning. When analyzing the regulated virtual asset licensing system in the UAE, it is important to distinguish between the two jurisdictions of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Dubai has recently partnered with Sui Network to support startups and enhance the crypto ecosystem, collaborating with VARA to foster local talent and simplify compliance processes for new ventures.

Key Notes Solana Foundation is now in a functional partnership with Dubai's VARA. The alliance aims to foster collaboration between builders and regulators in crypto. Solana price has recorded some gains following the collaboration news. After signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with D

The Solana Foundation has partnered with Dubai’s VARA to enhance crypto innovation in the MENA region. Additionally, NewGenIVF's $30M investment in Solana staking reflects growing institutional confidence, though the SOL price remains steady near $163 resistance.

The Solana Foundation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Dubai's VARA to foster cryptocurrency innovation through training, data sharing, and support for the Solana Economic Zone. Additionally, NewGenIvf Group invested $30 million in Solana staking, reflecting growing confidence in digital assets. These developments strengthen Solana's growth prospects and wider acceptance.

The Solana Foundation has signed a new partnership in Dubai to enhance cryptocurrency collaboration. Accordingly, the Solana Foundation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Layer-1 blockchain Solana (SOL), in a post from account X, the Solana Foundation's crypto developers

On June 3, the Solana Foundation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). This is a significant step in reshaping global blockchain technology. The agreement paves the way for Solana Economic Zone expansion in Dubai. This deal also

Dubai’s VARA released upgraded Rulebooks aiming to enhance market integrity and risk management. Companies must comply with the new rules by June 19, 2025. The changes involve controls on margin trading and token distribution, synchronized compliance requirements, and clear definitions for collateral wallet arrangements.

CoinVoice has learned that, according to Cointelegraph, Dubai's Crypto Assets regulatory authority has required licensed digital asset companies to comply with its latest version of the activity-based rulebook by June 19 to enhance market integrity and risk oversight. On May 19, the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) announced the release of the Rules Manual version 2.0. Dubai regulators have stated that they have strengthened the oversight of margin trading and token distribution services, enhanced the consistency of compliance requirements for all licensed operations, and provided a clearer definition of collateral wallet arrangements.

BitGo, a world market leader in institutional digital asset custody and safety solutions, has officially entered the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It is licensed under Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). With such a strong presence in the region, the company now

Dubai's VARA warns against false claims of participation in a real estate tokenization pilot program. Only approved entities can take part in the initiative, emphasizing transparency in the virtual asset ecosystem.

Big news from Dubai’s dynamic virtual asset space! The Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), working closely with the Dubai Land Department (DLD), has issued a significant warning about the

The Dubai Land Department plans to introduce fractional ownership through tokenization of the real estate registry, in collaboration with VARA. This aligns with the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033 to boost real estate transactions.

Bitpanda has obtained a broker-dealer license from Dubai’s VARA, enabling its expansion into the UAE market. The move aligns with the company's goal of making virtual assets secure and accessible, marking a significant step in its growth beyond Europe.

Dubai's VARA enforces regulations in the crypto space, imposing fines on firms without licenses. Approval of USDC and EURC in Dubai boosts stablecoin market competition against USDT. Regulatory steps promote virtual currency adoption in UAE.

Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has granted MANTRA a VASP license with a DeFi Limited License, marking a notable milestone in the UAE’s evolving regulatory landscape for decentralized finance (DeFi). While MANTRA has positioned this as the “first DeFi license” from VARA,

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, February 21st, 2025 – MANTRA Finance FZE (MANTRA), a leading decentralized finance (DeFi) platform operated by MANTRA Group, today announces it has successfully obtained a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority

MANTRA obtains VARA license for regulated DeFi expansion in Dubai, emphasizing security and compliance. It signifies a move towards innovative financial services in the Middle East.

DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MANTRA Finance FZE (MANTRA), a leading decentralized finance (DeFi) platform operated by MANTRA Group, today announces it has successfully obtained a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), to ope

VARA warns investors about risks of meme coins including price manipulation, lack of liquidity, and potential fraud. Dubai strengthens crypto regulations with mandatory licensing requirements for businesses. Meme coins market cap was $81.1 billion at the time of the warning.

The Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has issued a consumer alert regarding the risks involved in investing in memecoins, following the rising popularity of these highly speculative and volatile digital assets. Unregulated and High-Risk Nature of Memecoins Memecoins have

The meme coin market cap surged from $20 billion to $120 billion in 2024. Dubai's VARA cautioned about risks in memecoins due to their reliance on social trends and inflated values. Adherence to VARA rules is mandatory for virtual assets in Dubai, to prevent scams and losses. UAE regulators stress on the need for caution on memecoin platforms, warning of potential restrictions and urging protection of personal finances. This notice coincided with the UAE Ministry of Energy's collaboration with Shiba Inu to advance Web3 solutions.

VARA grants WadzPay a VASP license for virtual asset broker-dealer services. WadzPay aims to revolutionize digital transactions with secure blockchain-based solutions. Final approval will enable WadzPay to launch operations across the Middle East. Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, has

Zand, the UAE’s first fully licensed AI-powered digital bank, is now able to offer digital asset, and crypto custody services after Dubai’s regulator VARA ( Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority) approved its license. Zand is the first UAE bank to be able to offer institutional-grade digital asset

Bitoasis, a MENA-based virtual asset platform, has obtained a full VASP license from Dubai's VARA, enabling the company to broaden its services to retail and institutional investors while exploring new offerings. The license signifies the final step in VARA's licensing procedure, a crucial milestone for expanding the company's services. Bitoasis has pledged to cooperate with regulators to build confidence in the virtual asset sector and foster the region's digital economy.