Crypto License in UAE (Dubai)
The UAE is the world's most popular jurisdiction for legal activities in the cryptosphere. Gofaizen & Sherle provides professional support in obtaining a crypto license in UAE from scratch with turnkey guarantee in less than 3-4 weeks
Blockchain technology is rapidly developing in the global economic sector and has enormous potential for international trade. The Emirati government has thoroughly decided to consolidate its status as a global leader and gain the primacy of economic development in innovation and technology by introducing a promising regulation of cryptocurrency activities. The UAE is considered one of the most promising countries in the world for cryptocurrency initiatives
If you want to get a crypto license in the UAE, it is necessary to understand the peculiarities of business regulation in this jurisdiction. We will take a look at all the requirements and key points of cryptocurrency licensing in the UAE
Advantages of Dubai crypto license
Favorable tax environment
Corporate income tax, as well as tax on dividends, is 0%. All income of individuals from international activities is not taxed. At the same time, there are no currency restrictions and no tax rate on imports and exports.
Agreements on the absence of double taxation
Companies can significantly reduce their tax burden thanks to the 123 double tax treaties of the UAE with many other jurisdictions.
100% repatriation
UAE entrepreneurs can return 100% of profits and capital to their country, which provides investment protection and increases investor confidence.
There are no customs duties in GCC
Doing business in the UAE has the advantage of having no customs duties in the Gulf Council (GCC), which facilitates trade and export. The UAE Government is actively working to create a favorable regulatory environment for business, encouraging investment and job creation.
The state supports Fintech-sphere
According to the blockchain strategy adopted by the UAE until 2021, half of all government transactions will be conducted on blockchain platforms. It demonstrates the government's desire to adapt to new technologies and strengthen the UAE's position as an advanced economy among the world's developed countries.
No minimum investment requirements
The absence of minimum investment requirements makes the UAE attractive for new and small businesses. It allows many entrepreneurs to start their businesses with minimal financial investment and get the opportunity to develop in a promising market with high growth potential.
No requirements for residency and quota of local employees
Absolute foreign ownership of a local enterprise is allowed without the involvement of resident partners. Moreover, the company is not required to have a certain number of local employees, which provides freedom in hiring and firing staff.
Currency is pegged to the US dollar, and English is the business language
In the UAE, the local currency is pegged to the US dollar, which makes it easier to do business and simplifies calculations and bookkeeping. In addition, English is a business language, which has a positive effect on communication.
REQUIREMENTS TO OBTAIN A DMCC CRYPTO LICENSE IN UAE (DUBAI)
- Obtain and fill out the license form from the Department of Economic Development in Dubai
- Provide all certified copies of the founders passports and Utility bills
- Provide CVs of all shareholders and directors (relevant professional experience required)
- Provide a clean cryptocurrency wallet record with no suspicious transactions
- The capital resource of the business must cover all expenses for six months
- You must register all crypto-assets with the Department of Free Financial Zones and get government approval
- Provide detailed business model description/business plan
- Comply with KYC and AML policies
- Comply with anti-money laundering regulations
- Ensure the protection of clients financial information
- Have a share capital of at least 50 000 AED (€12,750 to be submitted within 6 months after registration)
- Provide data on the structure and projected profits of the company
- Provide data on the origin of funds at the request of the regulator
REQUIREMENTS TO OBTAIN A CRYPTO LICENSE IN UAE (IFZA)
- Obtain and fill out the license form from the Department of Economic Development in Dubai
- Provide all certified copies of the founders passports and Utility bills
- Provide CVs of all shareholders and directors
- Provide a clean cryptocurrency wallet record with no suspicious transactions
- Provide business model description/business plan
- Comply with KYC and AML policies
- Comply with anti-money laundering regulations
- Ensure the protection of clients financial information
- Provide data on the structure and projected profits of the company
- Provide data on the origin of funds at the request of the regulator
Process and timeline for obtaining a crypto license in Dubai / UAE
Stage 1
COLLECTION OF PRELIMINARY DOCUMENTS + company name and activity approval
Documents required:
- Preferred company name
- Passport copies from all shareholders and directors
- Utility bills from all shareholders and directors
- CVs of shareholders and directors
- A business model of the company (brief description 1-2 A4 pages)
Stage 2
REGISTRATION AND LICENSING PROCESS
- Determination of suitable license type
- Submission of application to DMCC or IFZA
- Company registration
- License approval
- Preparation of corporate documents
Stage 3
CORPORATE ACCOUNT OPENING
- Analysis of the most suitable Banks/EMIs, comparison of the risk appetite of the Bank in relation to the risk appetite of the Client based on previously prepared AML policies
- Collection of necessary documents from the Client side to initiate the process (flow of funds, source of wealth, description of the purpose of opening an account, key partners, company website, utility bill, etc.)
- Initiation of the onboarding procedure simultaneously in 2-3 crypto friendly Payment Institutions
- Guiding the Client's company through the entire process of opening an account
Differences between crypto licenses in DMCC and IFZA
DMCC
- The most prestigious and reputable Free Zone in the UAE to set up the business and obtain crypto license = higher company status and higher chances for account opening
- Licensing procedure requires confirmation of director’s experience in crypto currency/financial sphere and license obtainment deadline is 3-4 weeks
- Minimal share capital requirement of 50,000 AED (€12,750 to be submitted to corporate account within 6 months after registration)
IFZA
- No need for depositing share capital
- No need to prove previous experience in crypto and finance
- Faster process of license obtainment (1-2 weeks)
- Cheaper and faster option in general
Types of cryptocurrency licenses in the UAE for DMCC and IFZA
“Proprietary trading in Crypto-commodities”, 6599-92, with the following description: “Includes the buying and selling (Proprietary Trading) of crypto-commodities developed on distributed ledger technology applications. This activity does not include acting as an exchange, providing brokerage services, financial services, banking services, payment processing or storage services.”
“Distributed Ledger Technology Services”, 722999, with the following description: “Includes providing database management solutions and ancillary services based on distributed ledger technologies, such as Blockchain. Companies with these activities are not permitted to trade in, or setup an exchange for, currencies or crypto currencies/commodities or provide any financial activity services, brokerage or payment processing.”
NFT's E-Marketplace Provider", 7229-97, with the following description: "Includes firms engaged in providing an online platform for the buying & selling of third parties’ unique digital assets (NFTs) and facilitates commercial interactions between buyer and seller in return of a commission or remuneration. The online platform cannot be used to trade or promote crypto-commodities, cryptocurrencies or NFTs covering any regulated products or securities."
Metaverse Service Provider", 7229-98, with the following description: "Includes firms engaged in the development and hosting of digital virtual environments, which enable simulated interactions between individuals. Companies with this activity are not permitted to issue tokens which are traded on exchanges or trade in crypto commodities.
Proprietary Crypto Mining", 6599-90, with the following description: "Includes entities engaged in verifying and adding new transactions to the blockchain (using methods such as proof-of-work and proof-of-stake) in order to generate Crypto Assets and trade those assets on a proprietary level on exchange platforms.
This activity does not include providing services to 3rd parties, acting as an exchange, providing brokerage services, financial services, banking services, peer to peer trades or payment processing.
Other than these 5 activities are not available yet in DMCC. Please note that, the activities Proprietary Trading in Crypto-commodities, Proprietary Crypto Mining, NFTs E-Marketplace Provider, Metaverse Service Provider and Distributed Ledger Technology Services are standalone license activities allowed for new companies only and cannot be conducted with other activities under the same company. And, subject to prior approval by DMCC management (prior to registration).
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Explore other Crypto Licences
Cryptocurrency license in UAE Dubai is gaining popularity
Cryptocurrency exchange registration in the UAE is becoming an affordable and popular option due to the large number of free zones that allow businesses to trade and store cryptocurrency, process crypto assets, and engage in related activities. Any type of cryptocurrency is available for trading on crypto exchanges in Dubai.
The UAE's 2021 blockchain strategy calls for 50 percent of all government transactions to be hosted on blockchain platforms. This confirms the government's intention to emphasize adaptation to future technologies and cement the UAE's status as the most advanced economy among the world's developed nations
The world's largest exchanges like Binance will soon establish a presence in Dubai. Eventually, it will be the first global cryptocurrency exchange in the UAE. It is becoming clear that the Emirates will become one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges serving the entire region
Types of crypto licenses in the UAE
The current government provides for regulated and unregulated activities of crypto companies
The license requirements, conditions, and possibilities depend on the chosen economic zone. After registering a license, you will be able to issue digital currencies, make exchanges, manage your assets, register a cryptocurrency exchange, and conduct brokerage activities
You can get a crypto license in UAE in the following zones: DMCC, DAFZA, ADGM, DWTC, IFZA
Let's take a closer look at opening each type of crypto company in the UAE
Crypto license at DMCC
DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Center) is a free economic zone and one of the most popular cryptocurrency businesses in the UAE. Getting a cryptocurrency license in Dubai is available at DMCC and guarantees the legality of your business. The first company to open this license and provide cold storage services for cryptocurrencies is Regal Assets
To register a crypto-exchange, it is necessary to register a company with the Dubai Multi Commodities Center. With this license, it is possible to carry out various cryptocurrency services for customers: management, storage, trading, software applications, crypto exchange, and other services. In the long run, this license will become the main category for businesses
Two types of licenses are available to entrepreneurs at DMCC:
- Cryptocurrency trading. You will be able to trade (buy and sell) digital assets that were created based on distributed registry technology. Note that this license does not include providing services as a cryptocurrency exchange, brokerage, financial and banking operations, payment processing, or holding currencies from third parties
- Distributed registry license. You will have access to database management, and additional services based on distributed registry technologies, such as a meta-universe service provider or e-commerce provider
IFZA crypto license
In 2018, the International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) was added to the Emirates' free zones list. It is located in the center of the emirate of Fujairah, in the eastern part of the UAE, the most distant emirate from Dubai. In this zone, entrepreneurs can register enterprises, branches, and subsidiaries. At first, licenses were issued only for trade, services, and industry, but after the conclusion of an agreement with the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority, the possibilities expanded.
The IFZA, similar to Dubai's DMCC, now supports entrepreneurs doing business in the cryptocurrency space. They agreed with the SCA to issue cryptocurrency licenses in Dubai.
Companies holding an IFZA crypto license can conduct commercial activities using their crypto assets and cryptocurrency transactions, such as exchange and storage. To obtain a crypto license, you must meet specific requirements and complete the registration procedure by the rules and regulations of the IFZA zone.
IFZA also actively cooperates with other free zones in Dubai and worldwide, creating a favorable ecosystem for developing cryptocurrency businesses. It helps entrepreneurs move quickly between zones and take advantage of the opportunities available in each zone to maximize their business potential.
Cryptocurrency license at DAFZA
DAFZA is the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority. To support trading related to the commercial activities of cryptocurrency assets, DAFZA and SCA (Dubai Securities Authority) have signed an agreement. According to this, businesses are allowed to trade cryptocurrencies and provide services to customers
DAFZA intends to integrate the issuance of cryptocurrency licenses with the rest of the global services for investors. Flexible legislative support and regulatory framework from DAFZA are provided for the smooth functioning of business operations. The development of cryptocurrency companies in the UAE is aimed at stimulating the growth of trade and the entire sector in the region
There is currently 1 type of cryptologic license available for own cryptocurrency trading. This license is regulated by the SCA, and under its control are offerings, issuance, asset trading, and related financial activities
Crypto license in ADGM
ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Markets) is an Abu Dhabi financial-free zone that is supervised by regulators. They established rules for cryptocurrency activities back in 2018. ADGM aims to connect the Emirates to the cross-national markets of the Middle East, South and East Asia, and Africa to diversify the UAE economy
It is the first jurisdiction in the world that has created a comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrency transactions. The comprehensive framework makes it easier for the leading players in this industry to operate in a business-friendly environment. It covers the full range of different risks associated with financial crime, financial laundering, customer protection, cryptocurrency exchange, and storage operations, and technology management
Obtaining a license in the ADGM zone allows you to cover the full range of activities that are associated with crypto assets: a license for a cryptocurrency exchange in the UAE; storage of cryptocurrency; buying and selling; management of crypto assets of third parties; marketing of cryptocurrency
Cryptologic license at DWTC
DWTC (Dubai World Trade Center) is a free zone established in 2015, which is designed to operate and serve innovative industries in the field of virtual assets, cryptocurrency, blockchain, etc
This zone is closely cooperating and also coordinating with VARA (Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority) to approve the status of the newly designated zone for regulated crypto companies. All actions and approval processes for cryptocurrencies are coordinated with VARA
In addition, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges, Binance signed an exclusive memorandum of cooperation with DWTC, which will help make the zone a cryptocurrency hub for the region
DWTC reports that it will be one of the first zones to allow crypto licensing in the UAE under the supervision of the Securities and Commodities Authority
Options for legal activities in this area:
- A distributed registry license will allow the creation and management of databases to provide a service to customers
- A license for cryptocurrency trading allows for transactions of buying and selling assets that have been created based on blockchain technology
In addition:
- the ability to provide financial advice
- manage crypto assets
- brokerage activities
Informational services on the balance
VASP has the authority to manage and safeguard cryptocurrency depository wallets belonging to clients, and store and provide clients with information services on balances, and incoming and outgoing transactions. Clients may request up-to-date information regarding their accounts.
Please note that this information may be requested by regulators under KYC guidelines. Therefore, it is important to maintain ongoing analysis and reporting.
Advantages of crypto business in UAE
Get significant advantages when registering a crypto-business in UAE compared to crypto licenses in other jurisdictions, thanks to the loyalty of the Emirati government, investor support, and the rapid development of UAE cryptocurrency. You can protect your privacy and get enhanced security from blockchain technology in Dubai
Key Benefits:
- The Fintech field is supported at the state level
- Absolute foreign ownership of a local enterprise without involving resident partners is allowed
- All individual income from international activities is tax-free
- The most loyal taxation is 0% on income up to 50 years of business activity
- There are no currency restrictions and no import and export tax rates
- No restrictions on the employment of foreign employees in the company
- Profit can be withdrawn to foreign accounts
- Increased confidentiality of personal data and transactions
- Agreements are available for the avoidance of double taxation
- The stable banking system and economy
- Full legalization of cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrency rules in the UAE and the risks of crypto assets
Regulations
The main regulatory body that implements all the regulations and rules for cryptocurrency business in the UAE is the SCA (Securities and Commodities Authority). Their regulations apply to many forms of cryptocurrency-related activities
Payment tokens (stable coins) and stored value funds are regulated by the UAE Central Bank
Crypto Licenses from DAFZA are also regulated by the SCA. It oversees the offerings, issuance, and trading of crypto-assets
The ADGM Free Zone has its own Cryptocurrency Operations Manual, but it was drafted according to SCA regulations. In addition, the FSRA (Financial Services Regulatory Authority) directly regulates ADGM and requires them to follow their own set of rules and guidelines
In addition, the Authority monitors businesses that provide services related to cryptocurrency and blockchain to ensure the prevention of money laundering and other illegal activities. This is currently the only guidance for cryptocurrency operations in the UAE at ADGM
Risks of crypto-assets
The UAE government recognizes all the risks that are associated with crypto-assets:
- financial laundering
- sponsorship of terrorism
Every crypto business is required to develop corporate and customer-oriented rules based on:
- UAE anti-financial laundering and sponsorship of terrorism laws
- Rules and guidelines from the ADGM on anti-financial laundering and countering the sponsorship of terrorism
- FATF international best practices
- Сompliance with global risk mitigation and transparency standards
Principles that should be framed in the management of every enterprise:
- Business risk analysis
- Implementation of QAS, AML, and system controls
- Control of management and enterprise systems
- Mandatory reporting
- Record keeping
If you want to stay within the right field, you have to follow these standards.
Taxation
The UAE is a very attractive country for cryptocurrency businesses on the tax side: the federal income and corporate tax rates are 0%. This applies to companies that use cryptocurrency solely for trading or receive it as a salary.
But we should pay attention to the value-added tax. Since the beginning of 2018, the government introduced new rules but put a low tax rate of 5%. Your company can be set up on a zero-tax basis, but ordinary transactions will be subject to VAT at 5%
If you want to find out if your activity is tax-exempt, Gofaizen-Sherle can consult you on this issue
FAQ about crypto license in UAE
How can I get a cryptocurrency license in the UAE?
You can get a cryptocurrency license in the UAE from the regulatory authorities of the country where you plan to set up a company. It is also possible to get your crypto license in Dubai. To do this, contact Gofaizen-Sherle for assistance, our team will provide advice and help in setting up the company.
Do you need a license to trade cryptocurrency in the UAE?
If you want to conduct legal and transparent activities related to cryptocurrency, you need to get a license.
Is there any tax on cryptocurrency in the UAE?
If you use cryptocurrency for trading or receive it as a salary, the federal income, and the corporate tax rate is 0%. Value Added Tax (VAT) is 5%.
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