Virtual Assets & Crypto Regulations in the GCC

AI Applications in Web3 SupTech and RegTech — A Regulatory Perspective (FSRA/ADGM)

This FSRA report explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into regulatory technologies (RegTech) and supervisory technologies (SupTech) within the Web3 space. It discusses opportunities, innovations, challenges, and future directions of AI in regulating Web3 activities, including pilot programs conducted in ADGM. The report aims to enhance compliance monitoring and risk management in the evolving digital asset landscape.

DFSA Crypto Token Regulatory Regime

This DFSA document outlines the regulatory framework for Crypto Tokens within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). It details the criteria for recognizing Crypto Tokens, including Fiat Crypto Tokens, and the process for obtaining DFSA recognition. The regime aims to foster innovation while addressing risks like money laundering and consumer protection.

FSRA Consultation Paper No. 10 of 2025 — Proposed Framework for the Staking of Virtual Assets

FSRA Consultation Paper No. 10 of 2025 outlines a proposed regulatory framework for the staking of Virtual Assets (VAs) within Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The paper seeks public comment on the proposed regulations and requirements for Authorized Persons involved in staking activities. It builds upon previous consultations and industry feedback.

FSRA Consultation Paper No. 11 of 2024 — Proposed Amendments to the Digital Asset Regulatory Framework

FSRA Consultation Paper No. 11 of 2024 outlines proposed amendments to the digital asset regulatory framework in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). It seeks public comment on revisions to the Virtual Asset (VA) framework, criteria for accepting Fiat-Referenced Tokens (FRTs), and expanding investment scope for Venture Capital Funds (VC Funds). The aim is to refine and update regulations for VA activities within ADGM.

Cabinet Decision No. 111/2022 on Virtual Assets and Their Service Providers

UAE Cabinet Decision No. 111/2022 establishes a regulatory framework for virtual assets and virtual asset service providers (VASPs) within the UAE. It defines key terms such as virtual assets, virtual asset activities, and VASPs, outlining the scope of regulation. The decision aims to regulate the provision of virtual asset services and related transactions within the UAE.

FSRA Guidance — Regulation of Virtual Asset Activities in ADGM

This FSRA guidance outlines the regulatory framework for virtual asset activities within the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). It details the Financial Services Regulatory Authority's (FSRA) approach to regulating virtual assets, covering authorized persons engaged in regulated activities related to virtual assets. The guidance aims to provide clarity on compliance expectations.

Guidance on Risks Related to Virtual Assets and Virtual Asset Providers

This CBUAE guidance outlines the risks associated with virtual assets (VAs) and virtual asset service providers (VASPs) and provides instructions for Licensed Financial Institutions (LFIs) on mitigating money laundering and terrorist financing (ML/TF) risks. It details the process for LFIs to obtain CBUAE's non-objection for opening new accounts for VASPs and managing VA-related customer transactions.

SCA Guidelines for Regulation of Virtual Assets and Virtual Asset Service Providers

The SCA Guidelines provide a regulatory framework for Virtual Assets (VAs) and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) in the UAE, excluding financial free zones. Issued under Cabinet Resolution No. (111) of 2022, these guidelines detail licensing requirements, operational standards, and obligations for entities dealing with VAs as investment instruments, aiming to ensure market integrity and investor protection.

VARA Company Rulebook — General Requirements for Licensed VA Activities

The VARA Company Rulebook outlines general requirements for licensed Virtual Asset (VA) activities in the Emirate of Dubai, UAE, as regulated by the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). It is based on Law No. (4) of 2022, which regulates virtual assets within Dubai and defines key terms like Virtual Assets, Virtual Tokens, and Virtual Asset Platforms.

VARA Compulsory Rulebook — Broker-Dealer Services

This VARA (Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority) document outlines penalties and enforcement measures for violations of marketing regulations related to virtual assets. It details actions VARA can take, including warnings, fines, suspension of marketing activities, license revocation, and public statements, for entities failing to comply with marketing and advertising rules.

VARA Compulsory Rulebook — Custody Services

This VARA rulebook outlines the regulatory framework for custody services related to virtual assets in Dubai, UAE. It establishes requirements for board oversight, policies, procedures, public disclosures, and the storage and custody of virtual assets. The rulebook also covers staking from custody services and collateral wallet services, ensuring client protection and market integrity.

VARA Compulsory Rulebook — Exchange Services

This VARA rulebook outlines the regulatory requirements for Virtual Asset Exchange Services in Dubai, UAE. It establishes rules related to board composition, policies, procedures, public disclosures, trading venue participants, market surveillance, business continuity, settlement, and margin trading. The rulebook aims to ensure fair and transparent operations of virtual asset exchanges.

VARA Compulsory Rulebook — Lending and Borrowing Services

This document, issued by the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), outlines the rules for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) licensed to conduct Lending and Borrowing Services in Dubai. It supplements the Virtual Assets and Related Activities Regulations 2023 and other VARA rulebooks, establishing specific requirements for these services.

VARA Compulsory Rulebook — Management and Investment Services

This document, issued by Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), outlines the rules for Virtual Asset (VA) Transfer and Settlement Services. It applies to all Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) licensed by VARA to conduct these services in or from Dubai. The rulebook supplements existing regulations and other VARA rulebooks applicable to all VASPs.

VARA Compulsory Rulebook — Payment and Remittance Services

Administrative Resolution No. (01) of 2023 establishes the VARA Grievance Committee to address grievances from parties in the virtual asset sector. The committee will review actions, penalties, or sanctions imposed under applicable legislation and related to VARA inspections. The resolution outlines the committee's formation, membership, meeting procedures, and decision-making processes.

VARA Compulsory Rulebook — VA Issuance Activities

Administrative Order 01/2022, issued by the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), regulates the marketing, advertising, and promotion of virtual assets and related activities within the Emirate of Dubai, excluding the Dubai International Financial Centre. It aims to provide a clear framework for responsible advertising and promotion of virtual assets.

VARA Marketing Regulations 2024

The VARA Marketing Regulations 2024 outlines the rules for marketing virtual assets and related activities within the Emirate of Dubai. Issued by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), the regulations aim to regulate Virtual Assets and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) and promote Dubai as a regional hub for virtual assets.

VARA Virtual Assets and Related Activities Regulations 2023

Cabinet Decision No. 112/2022 delegates certain competencies related to the regulation of virtual assets to the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). VARA is authorized to license, supervise, and control virtual asset activities and service providers within the Emirate of Dubai and its free zones, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and international requirements.

CBB Rulebook Vol. 6 — Crypto-Asset Module (CRA) 2024

The CBB Rulebook Vol. 6, Crypto-Asset Module (CRA) 2024, outlines the regulatory framework for crypto-asset services in Bahrain. It covers licensing requirements, minimum capital, business standards, technology governance, cybersecurity, risk management, and reporting obligations for entities engaged in crypto-asset activities. The module aims to ensure the stability and integrity of the crypto-asset market and protect consumers.