The Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority is Dubai's dedicated regulator for virtual assets and related activities. Established in 2022 by Law No. 4 of 2022, VARA is one of the world's first standalone government authorities specifically designed to regulate virtual assets. It oversees all virtual asset service providers operating in or from the Emirate of Dubai, excluding the DIFC.
- Mandatory client asset segregation and custodial requirements
- Comprehensive risk disclosure obligations
- Market conduct and anti-manipulation rules for virtual assets
- Strict AML/CFT compliance requirements
Restricted Countries
VARA specifically regulates virtual assets and does not cover traditional forex/CFD trading. DIFC is excluded from VARA jurisdiction.
Body: VARA Compliance and Enforcement Division
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