The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a group of seven states in the Near East with a strong economy, ranking thirteenth in the world by GDP primarily due to its oil production. Dubai, the UAE’s largest city, is a key center for trade, business, and tourism in the region, known for its modern technology and a popular place for Bitcoin startups and trading.
In 2016, the UAE government established a legal framework for cryptocurrency regulation. Though these regulations prohibit payment services from facilitating Bitcoin transactions, the law, in collaboration with the Central Bank, allows for different interpretations based on specific situations. Embracing innovation, the UAE has launched the UAE Blockchain Strategy, aiming to position itself as a leader in blockchain technology.
The Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), a regulatory body oversees the development of cryptocurrencies business environment in terms of licensing, regulations, and governance.
05-06-2024: UAE Central Bank Greenlights Licensing System for Stablecoins
The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) board approved a new system to oversee and license stablecoins. During a meeting in Abu Dhabi, the board discussed projects under the government’s financial infrastructure transformation (FIT) program to enhance digital transactions, the digital economy, and innovation.
03-06-2024: Dubai’s Financial Regulator Revises Crypto Token Rules for Funds
The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) updated its cryptocurrency token rules on June 3, aiming to improve the regulatory framework for tokens in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a special economic zone in the UAE. These amendments follow the consultation paper published in January 2024.
18-04-2024 : Binance gets Dubai crypto license
Binance got its Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license after co-founder Changpeng Zhao gave up his voting power in the exchange’s local entity. The Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) required Zhao to surrender his voting power in Binance FZE, the Dubai-based unit, to grant the VASP license. Current CEO Richard Teng confirmed the license receipt but stated Zhao’s voting power surrender was “pure speculation.”
Dubai offers zero percent personal income tax on crypto gains for its tax residents. Whether actively trading or holding, there are no taxes on capital gains, business income, or salaries, making it a highly attractive location for cryptocurrency enthusiasts.
With its well-established regulatory frameworks, Dubai ensures legal certainty for crypto investors. Cryptocurrency is legal, and there are no income taxes or reporting requirements. By registering a company in one of Dubai’s Free Zones, investors can easily become residents and benefit from these favorable conditions.
Yes, it is legal to mine cryptocurrency in the UAE. While the Central Bank regulates virtual currencies and does not recognize them as legal tender, the country is home to some of the world’s largest crypto miners.
The main challenge for miners in the UAE is the high cost of electricity, along with stiff competition from large mining farms abroad. Despite these challenges, supportive regulations, a favorable location, and access to cheap labor present many opportunities for miners in the UAE.
09-03-2022: Dubai approves Virtual Asset regulation Law and establishes VARA.
Sheikh Al Maktoum, ruler of the UAE, announced a law for crypto regulation in Dubai to protect investors and set international standards. The new Dubai Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) will enforce these rules in special development and free zones, excluding the Dubai International Financial Centre.
06-03-2022: DhanuX Wins ‘Best Crypto Startup Exchange’ In Dubai
Multi-utility crypto exchange platform, DhanuX won the award for ‘The Best Crypto Startup Exchange’ in the crypto expo held in Dubai. The crypto exchange was launched in Dubai on March 5, 2022.
10-1-2022: Dubai allows crypto businesses to set up in a free zone
Dubai’s economic free zone, DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Center), now licenses businesses handling crypto assets. DMCC signed an agreement with the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) to regulate this. Licenses are issued by the DMCC Crypto Center after SCA screening, according to state news agency WAM.
18-12-2021: The Dubai Media Office said efforts are being made to attract new businesses, including cryptocurrencies. As part of this drive, the DWTC is planning to develop a comprehensive ecosystem in collaboration with the private sector to develop an attractive environment for business. The plan also aims to enforce rigorous measures and standards to protect investors, combat terrorism financing, and anti-money laundering measures, track cross-border deals, and ensure compliance.
27-09-2021: Largest crypto Expo in Dubai to host the mega conference which is being reported as the largest crypto event with hosting 3000 delegates the CED 2021, in Dubai. The event sparked discussion on the growth of cryptocurrency in Middle East and African countries.
29-04-2021: The UAE’s federal government issued Federal LAw no.6 of 2021 on mediation in Civil and Commercial disputes (the UAE Mediation Law), built upon previous groundwork for mediation by providing a robust mediation framework through the uAE. Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai chambers of commerce offer mediation services for small claims and larger ones in Dubai.
06-05-2020: ANON summit 2020 will be the largest online blockchain conference in the CET time zone. This event will mirror the in-person experience with a novel digital platform, providing attendees the opportunity to attend speeches, panels, and workshops hosted on a virtual stage.
12-11-2020: The SCA Securities and Commodities Authority of UAE has published a new regulation for licensing crypto assets. Providers offering crypto assets or any crypto-related services must be incorporated onshore within the UAE or within UAE’s financial free zones also called Dubai International Financial Center.
01-01-2020: The Digibyte social network a crypto-friendly server from the outset that interacts with pre-existing social media services. a cryptocurrency-friendly federated social media platform based upon the open-source Mastodon platform and the decentralized ActivityPub protocol.
Also Read : Dubai’s DIFC Passes One of Its Kind Digital Asset Law & New Security Law
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have rapidly grown as prime locations for digital asset investments, attracting institutional investors with clear regulations and a welcoming attitude. This trend positions them to capitalize on the increasing interest in digital assets.
Other emirates are also embracing digital assets, each potentially specializing in different areas. Sharjah is exploring blockchain applications, while Ras Al Khaimah aims to attract blockchain businesses with its first Web 3-focused free zone. A significant step for the UAE would be to harmonize regulations across all emirates, ensuring a consistent and inviting environment for investors and businesses.
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