Founders in the UAE need to prioritize regulatory structuring within their go-to-market strategy to thrive. Many, however, consider licensing an afterthought, which can lead to confusion and regulatory challenges. The UAE operates under two legal systems: the mainland and the financial free zones, governed separately under different regulatory authorities. On the mainland, three key regulators oversee crypto activities: the Central Bank of the UAE, the Securities and Commodities Authority, and the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority. In the financial free zones, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority and the Dubai Financial Services Authority regulate crypto activities. Selecting the right regulator based on the specific business model is essential, whether it involves launching a crypto exchange, issuing stablecoins, or starting a crypto fund. Founders are advised to begin with one license, build traction, and expand thereafter. A commitment to compliance and collaboration with legal experts can provide clarity and speed in navigating the complex regulatory landscape.

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