How to Launch a Crypto Company in Dubai

a guide to setting up a crypto company in the UAE, covering benefits and the licensing process.

What will you learn

VARA vs ADGM

Gain clear, side-by-side insights into VARA vs. ADGM regulations to confidently choose the right jurisdiction for your crypto business.

Fees & Timelines

Understand how regulatory fees, licensing timelines, and physical presence requirements impact your expansion strategy in the UAE.

Common Mistakes

Learn practical steps for incorporating and licensing in each jurisdiction, helping you avoid costly mistakes and delays.

In a recent webinar, Virtuzone's Gary Thompson and our own Ohanes Kouyoumjian from ACX Compliance discussed the process of launching a crypto and Web3 business in the UAE. The session covered key advantages, company setup options, and the critical steps of the licensing process.

Why Choose the UAE?

Strategic Location: The UAE's prime location makes it an ideal hub for businesses serving a global market.
Progressive Regulation: The country is actively creating a clear and welcoming regulatory environment for virtual assets, with authorities like Vara and the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) leading the way.
Tax Advantages: The UAE offers a favorable tax system, including a 9% corporate tax on profits over a certain threshold and no personal income or capital gains tax on individual crypto trades.

Company Setup and Licensing

The webinar detailed three primary business structures and the steps to get licensed.

Company Structures: The most popular options are Free Zones (like the Dubai World Trade Centre and DMCC), which offer 100% foreign ownership. Mainland and Offshore setups were also discussed.
Licensing Process: The process with Vara is a three-stage journey:
1. Initial Disclosure Questionnaire (IDQ): Submitting a detailed business and financial plan.
2. Initial Approval: Gaining a provisional approval to move forward.
3. Full Operational License: Receiving the final license required to operate legally.
Key Requirements: Obtaining a license requires a physical office and a minimum of two full-time employees based in the UAE.

‍

Advantages of Setting Up in the UAE: This includes the strategic location, a favorable regulatory framework, and significant tax benefits.

Company Setup Options: The webinar detailed different business structures like Free Zones, Mainland, and Offshore.

The Licensing Process: It outlined the three stages of obtaining a license from regulatory bodies like Vara.

Key Requirements: The discussion covered necessary requirements such as having a physical office and local full-time employees.

Additional Insights: The speakers also touched on banking for crypto companies and tax implications for both individuals and businesses.

‍

Webinar speaker

Ohannes Kouyoumjian

Head Of Compliance

Ex-PwC with eight years of experience in the compliance field, managing 20+ teams of compliance agents.

Gary Thompson

Commercial Director at Virtuzone

Led revenue generation, securing market-leading commercial terms with jurisdictions and key partners.

info@acxcompliance.com

Company

Scope of Services

By Company Size