RAK DAO — RAK Digital Assets Oasis
- Company setup from
6,250 AED
Registration in 10 day
Offices,dedicated desks
In RAK DAO, you can establish any type of business related to the production and management of digital and virtual assets, from a…
Crypto license in Dubai
The UAE offers a legal and well-structured environment for operating a crypto business. To stay compliant, you must set up a company, obtain the correct type of license, and choose the right activity based on your goals, budget, and available resources — all in line with regulatory requirements.
Crypto activities in the UAE typically fall into three main categories:
- Proprietary crypto trading (with your or your company’s own funds)
- Crypto exchange services (third-party transactions)
- Digital asset development (blockchain, NFTs, Web3)
A well-planned business setup in Dubai, supported by experienced consultants, is the key to running a legal and licensed crypto operation in the UAE.
Where to get crypto license in UAE
Crypto trading business in Dubai can be operated through specific free zones. The right jurisdiction for your cryptocurrency license will depend on the type of activity you intend to pursue.
Jurisdictions for crypto activities in UAE
| Type of activity | Jurisdiction | What you can set up |
|---|---|---|
| Proprietary crypto trading | RAK DAO, DMCC, DIFC, ADGM | Set up a company to trade with your own funds on crypto exchanges. No third-party funds allowed. |
| Crypto exchange | DIFC (regulated by VARA), ADGM (FSRA) | Fully licensed crypto exchange platform (CEX, OTC, P2P). |
| Digital asset development | DMCC, RAK DAO | Blockchain, Web3, NFT platforms, virtual asset tools. |
Let’s dive deeper into the specifics of each jurisdiction
ADGM crypto license
Abu Dhabi Global Markets is a regulated financial free zone of the UAE capital Abu Dhabi. At the moment is offers a whole range of business activities related to crypto assets:
- Crypto exchange license
- Crypto asset custodian
- Buying, selling and exercising any right in accepted crypto assets
- Managing other person’s crypto assets
- Providing custody of crypto assets and making arrangements with a view to another person
- Marketing of crypto asset
DIFC crypto license
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a leading regulated financial free zone located in Dubai. It operates under a common law framework and is home to the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), which oversees crypto-related activities within the Emirate
Currently, DIFC offers licensing for a range of virtual asset activities, including:
- Crypto exchange license in Dubai (crypto-to-crypto, crypto-to-fiat, OTC, P2P)
- Custody and safekeeping of virtual assets
- Facilitating the buying, selling, or transfer of virtual assets
- Managing client crypto portfolios
- Operating as a broker, dealer, or market maker in virtual assets
- Marketing and promoting virtual asset services
DMCC crypto license
DMCC is not a regulated financial free zone, but it is still a pioneer in providing cryptocurrency licenses in Dubai. Currently Dubai Multi Commodities Centre offers the following types of crypto related business setups:
- Distributed ledger technology services
- Proprietary trading in crypto commodities
- NFTs E-marketplace provider
- Metaverse services provider
RAK DAO crypto license
RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO) is a specialized free zone in Ras Al Khaimah, created to support businesses in the virtual and digital assets sector. Unlike financial free zones such as DIFC or ADGM, RAK DAO is designed for non-regulated crypto activities
Currently, RAK DAO supports a variety of crypto-friendly business activities, including:
- Proprietary crypto trading (with own funds only)
- Blockchain and DLT development
- Web3 and metaverse platforms
- NFT creation and marketplaces
- Crypto mining and DeFi projects
- Software and gaming development related to digital assets
How to get UAE crypto license
The choice of licensing authority, the process of registration and the costs will totally depend on the exact business activity you are planning to undertake.
Generally, the process of registering crypto business in UAE will look as follows:
- Identify your business activity. Decide what type of work you plan to do: proprietary trading, crypto exchange and trading on behalf of third parties, crypto asset management, or digital asset development. Each activity comes with its own set of requirements, licensing process, permits, and setup costs.
- Prepare a business plan. This is a crucial step that deserves close attention. A clear and well-structured white paper and business plan will significantly increase your chances of a smooth and successful company setup. You’ll also need to define internal AML and KYC policies in detail, as they are essential for regulatory approval.
- Apply to the registering authority where you want to be licensed. If your business activity is proprietary crypto trading, you can choose between DIFC, ADGM, RAK DAO, and DMCC. For companies involved in crypto exchange and trading on behalf of third parties, only the financial free zones DIFC and ADGM are available. For digital asset development, including blockchain solutions, RAK DAO is the most suitable option, as it was specifically established to support such activities.
- Meet regulatory requirements. Each business activity comes with its own set of requirements. RAK DAO and DMCC are unregulated free zones, meaning there are no direct requirements from a financial regulator. However, the free zone authorities may still request a minimum share capital (in DMCC), a flexi-desk lease (in both zones), and internal AML/KYC policies.
- In regulated jurisdictions such as DIFC and ADGM, the requirements are stricter. You’ll need approvals from financial regulators, a minimum share capital, a physical office, and well-defined AML/KYC policies to comply with licensing conditions.
- Get your license. The timeline for obtaining a license will vary depending on the type of activity you choose.
This is a general licensing procedure. The exact steps may vary depending on the specific type of crypto activity. For a tailored step-by-step process, consult your business advisor.
Costs and timelines for getting a crypto license in Dubai
| Activity type | Jurisdiction | Setup timeline | Setup cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crypto exchange | VARA (Dubai) | 6–12 months | from 36,700 AED (application fee only) |
| FSRA (ADGM) | 6–12 months | from 55,000 AED (application fee only) | |
| Proprietary trading | RAK DAO | 1–2 weeks | 7,500–15,000 AED |
| DMCC | 2–4 weeks | 30,000–60,000 AED | |
| Digital asset development | RAK DAO | 1–2 weeks | 7,500–15,000 AED |
| DMCC Crypto Centre | 2–4 weeks | 30,000–60,000 AED |
Additional costs apply: mandatory office rent, regulatory documents for companies with financial regulated activities, etc.
Get your crypto license cost estimate — just one click away!
Crypto regulations in UAE
The UAE has a structured and evolving regulatory framework for virtual assets, with different authorities overseeing crypto activities in specific jurisdictions.
- VARA (Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority) regulates Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) in mainland Dubai, including crypto exchanges, custodians, OTC desks, and brokers. VARA ensures compliance with AML standards and consumer protection rules across Dubai, including parts of DIFC where applicable.
- FSRA (Financial Services Regulatory Authority) governs digital asset activities within Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). It oversees crypto exchanges, peer-to-peer platforms, and custodial services, following a comprehensive regulatory regime aligned with international standards.
- DFSA (Dubai Financial Services Authority) supervises activities in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) related to tokenized securities, digital investment products, and regulated market platforms. DFSA applies its own framework distinct from VARA’s for tokenized financial assets.
Each of these regulators operates under a clear legal structure, and businesses must comply with the relevant authority depending on their jurisdiction and type of crypto activity.
Crypto asset risks
UAE is acknowledging the risks associated with crypto assets. The main risks are the following:
- Money laundering
- Financing of terrorism
Any company dealing in crypto assets, needs to develop comprehensive regulations according to:
- UAE Anti Money Laundering and Combating Terrorism Financing laws
- Anti Money Laundering and Sanctions Rules and Guidance (ADGM)
- International Best Practices including FATF recommendations
It is important to meet the global standards of transparency and risk mitigation. The major principles will be:
- Risk based approach
- Business risk assessment
- KYC and due diligence
- Governance, systems and controls
- Reporting obligations
- Record keeping
UAE obliges every company dealing with cryptocurrencies to follow these principles and standards in order to maintain within the legal framework.
Global operation and compliance
A crypto company licensed in the UAE can serve clients internationally. You are allowed to operate globally, but it’s essential to follow the laws and regulations of each country where your services are offered. While your license is issued by a UAE free zone or financial regulator, it applies primarily within the UAE and as a base for international operations. It does not automatically authorize activity in foreign jurisdictions, so it’s crucial to check local requirements before entering new markets.
Emirabiz supports clients with global compliance strategies — from aligning with international AML/KYC standards to advising on cross-border operations, banking, and risk management. This ensures your UAE-licensed crypto business runs smoothly and legally on a global scale.
You can operate globally — just make sure you respect the laws of the countries where your clients are located.
Frequently asked questions
To obtain a cryptocurrency license in Dubai, you need to register a company in a suitable free zone or financial center (like RAK DAO, DMCC, DIFC, or ADGM), choose the right business activity, prepare required documents (including AML/KYC policies), and apply through the relevant regulatory authority with expert assistance.
If you’re trading with your own funds (proprietary trading) as an individual, no license is required. Or you can form a legal entity and use the company’s funds for trading. In this case you must obtain a cryptocurrency license in Dubai from a free zone like RAK DAO or DMCC. For operating exchanges or managing client assets, licensing through DIFC (VARA) or ADGM (FSRA) is mandatory.
The cost of a cryptocurrency license in Dubai depends on the activity and jurisdiction. For proprietary trading or digital asset development in RAK DAO, it starts from 7,500 AED. In regulated zones like DIFC or ADGM, costs begin at 36,700 AED and can go significantly higher based on regulatory fees and business complexity.
Setup timelines vary. A cryptocurrency license in Dubai for proprietary trading or digital assets can be obtained in 1–4 weeks. For regulated activities like OTC desks or exchanges, it may take 6–12 months due to approvals, documentation, and compliance checks.
Yes. If your UAE-licensed crypto company earns taxable income over 375,000 AED, a 9% corporate tax applies. However, some free zone activities may qualify for 0% tax if structured correctly. Personal crypto gains are not taxed. A cryptocurrency license in Dubai ensures compliance with these rules.
How to obtain a crypto license in Dubai with Emirabiz?
Launching a licensed cryptocurrency business in Dubai is a smart move — and with Emirabiz, it’s a streamlined and rewarding experience. As a leading expert in business setup in Dubai, we’ve helped hundreds of entrepreneurs establish a company in Dubai and grow their crypto businesses across the UAE.
Our experienced team knows the ins and outs of regulatory authorities and free economic zones, ensuring your setup is efficient and fully compliant. With Emirabiz, you get:
- Expert guidance in selecting the ideal business activity for your cryptocurrency in Dubai
- Help choosing the best-fit jurisdiction and licensing structure
- Full support in preparing documents, including white papers, AML/KYC policies, and shareholder details
- Direct coordination with free zones and regulators to obtain all necessary approvals
- A seamless licensing process tailored to your goals, timelines, and budget
- Assistance with obtaining a UAE residence visa and opening a UAE bank account
Whether you plan to engage in proprietary trading, provide crypto exchange services, or develop digital assets, we’ll make your business journey smooth from day one.
Aidina K.
Get a full roadmap and cost estimate for your crypto license!
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