VARA License in Dubai — End-to-End VASP Licensing Support
Dubai has positioned itself as a global hub for virtual assets and blockchain innovation. To operate legally in the Emirate, Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) must obtain a VARA license. Whether you’re launching a crypto exchange, custody platform, or advisory firm, we help you navigate requirements, secure approvals, and remain compliant.
What is VARA
The Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) is the sole regulator for virtual assets in Dubai (outside DIFC). It oversees licensing, supervision, and compliance for all businesses dealing with virtual assets.
VARA Licensed Activities
A Broker-Dealer License from VARA is tailored for companies that act as intermediaries in crypto trading transactions rather than running an exchange platform. Holders of this license can facilitate buying and selling of digital assets on behalf of clients, including over-the-counter (OTC) trading desks and brokerage firms.
VARA Broker-Dealer License Dubai
The VARA Custody License is designed for firms that provide digital asset safekeeping and management services for clients in Dubai. As the crypto industry matures, institutional investors and funds require secure, regulated custodians to handle their assets. This license not only enables providers to store client assets but also to manage settlement, reporting, and compliance with Dubai’s financial regulations.
VARA Custody License Dubai
The VARA Exchange License in Dubai is mandatory for companies that want to operate a cryptocurrency trading platform within the Emirate. With this license, businesses can offer services for users to buy, sell, and trade virtual assets in a regulated and secure environment. This license is highly sought after by companies aiming to establish crypto exchanges in Dubai or expand their operations into the Middle East. By obtaining the VARA Exchange License, businesses can attract both retail and institutional investors, ensuring credibility and compliance in one of the world’s fastest-growing virtual asset markets.
VARA Exchange License Dubai
The VARA Lending & Borrowing License in Dubai authorizes companies to offer crypto-backed lending and borrowing services within a regulated framework. This includes platforms that allow users to earn interest on digital assets, access crypto-collateralized loans, or participate in institutional lending programs. With Dubai emerging as a global hub for digital finance, a VARA Lending & Borrowing License allows companies to tap into growing demand for crypto credit solutions while maintaining regulatory credibility and investor confidence.
VARA Lending & Borrowing License Dubai
VARA License Requirements & Process
Step 1: Initial Approval (ATI – Approval to Incorporate)
The first stage in securing a VARA license in Dubai is obtaining the Approval to Incorporate (ATI). This step acts as a pre-approval from VARA that allows you to establish your entity in Dubai for virtual asset activities. At this stage, applicants must clearly define the scope of their intended business activity, submit company incorporation documents, and demonstrate the ability to meet VARA’s baseline governance and compliance expectations. While the ATI does not grant operational rights, it is an essential foundation for moving forward with the licensing process. With the ATI secured, companies can formally register in Dubai, open corporate bank accounts, and prepare for the next stage of regulatory review.
Step 2: In-Principle Approval (IPA)
Once the entity has been incorporated, the next stage is securing In-Principle Approval (IPA) from VARA. The IPA represents a conditional acceptance of the applicant as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP), pending final checks and requirements. During this stage, VARA conducts comprehensive due diligence, evaluating the company’s business plan, corporate structure, technology infrastructure, AML/CFT policies, and financial soundness. Applicants are also expected to appoint key personnel such as compliance officers, MLROs (Money Laundering Reporting Officers), and senior management who meet VARA’s fit-and-proper criteria. The IPA provides confidence to businesses and investors that the project has passed VARA’s scrutiny, and it allows companies to start preparing operational systems and internal policies for final approval.
Step 3: License Issuance
The final stage of the VARA licensing process is the License Issuance, where the applicant receives full authorization to operate as a licensed VASP in Dubai. To achieve this, companies must satisfy all conditions set out in their IPA, including capital adequacy requirements, independent audits, final compliance approvals, and IT security assessments. Once the license is granted, the company is entered into the official VARA Public Register and can legally market and deliver services under its approved license category — whether as an exchange, broker-dealer, custodian, lender, or advisor. License holders are also subject to ongoing supervision, including annual reporting, regulatory filings, and inspections to ensure compliance with VARA’s rulebooks and standards.
Why Work with Us
Licensed Corporate Service Provider
Deep knowledge of Dubai’s regulatory, tax, and banking ecosystem
End-to-End Support
From incorporation to post-license compliance
Banking & Legal Integration
Assistance with account opening, structuring, and contracts
