Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA)
Rasma Legal provides strategic advisory support for businesses navigating Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). We guide clients through licensing, compliance, and regulatory approvals, ensuring clarity and confidence in Dubai’s digital asset ecosystem.
About VARA
The rise of digital assets has reshaped global finance, demanding regulatory systems that can address new technologies, new risks, and new market structures. Dubai responded by creating a dedicated and comprehensive regulatory regime built specifically for virtual assets, not as an extension of existing financial rules, but as a standalone system designed for a digital economy.
Established under Law No. 4 of 2022, the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (“VARA”) is one of the world’s only regulators formed expressly for this sector. Today, it oversees an expanding ecosystem of licensed firms and market participants, providing consistency and confidence to businesses operating in and from Dubai.
What makes VARA different?
Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) establishes standards for digital asset businesses across licensing, compliance, and investor protection. Understanding VARA is essential for fintech, crypto, and blockchain ventures operating in Dubai.
Tailored Regulation for Digital Assets
Separates virtual-asset activities from traditional financial activities, ensuring market participants are governed under rules that reflect the actual technical and operational risks of the sector.
Activity-based Licensing
Regulates by activity, not by labels, giving businesses clear visibility on what is permitted, what requires licensing, and what obligations apply, with defined and enforceable licensing requirements.
Mandatory Operational Standards
Imposes concrete operational obligations, including mandatory controls, disclosures, governance standards, and ongoing supervisory requirements that licensed entities must implement and demonstrate in practice.
Aligned with FATF, IOSCO, and global standards—adapted for Dubai’s digital economy.
Why Rasma Legal
Our expertise ensures your business meets VARA’s licensing and compliance requirements seamlessly.
Rasma Legal’s expertise in VARA licensing and compliance.
- Tailored strategies: We map your activities to VARA’s rulebook and design the right licensing pathway.
- Regulatory insight: Clear guidance on obligations, disclosures, and governance standards.
- Hands-on support: From documentation to supervisory engagement, we stay with you end-to-end.
Trusted by digital asset firms operating in and from Dubai.
VARA Guides & Expert Commentary
Explore in-depth guides on Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Our commentary covers licensing, compliance, investor protection, and activity-based regulation—offering strategic guidance for fintech, crypto, and blockchain ventures.
