Bybit Wins First UAE Crypto License from Regulator
▼ Summary
– Bybit has become the first crypto exchange to receive the full Virtual Asset Platform Operator License from the UAE’s Securities and Commodities Authority.
– This license allows Bybit to offer regulated trading, brokerage, custody, and fiat conversion services to retail and institutional clients in the UAE.
– The achievement demonstrates Bybit’s commitment to compliance, security, and transparency, reinforcing its global regulatory strategy.
– Bybit plans to expand its local operations with a regional center in Abu Dhabi, hiring over 500 employees and launching education and Web3 programs.
– This milestone follows other 2025 regulatory successes for Bybit, including securing a MiCAR license in Europe and resuming operations in India.
In a landmark development for the digital finance sector, Bybit has officially become the first cryptocurrency exchange to receive the full Virtual Asset Platform Operator License from the United Arab Emirates Securities and Commodities Authority. This pivotal authorization allows Bybit to bring its comprehensive suite of global products and services into full regulatory compliance within the UAE market. The achievement solidifies the nation’s ambition to emerge as a premier international hub for digital assets.
This regulatory milestone serves as a powerful assurance to users, highlighting Bybit’s dedication to upholding superior standards in quality, product offerings, and customer service. The license reflects a globally consistent compliance framework and underscores the company’s strategic approach of embedding itself deeply within local markets to foster cryptocurrency adoption.
The journey to this full license began earlier in the year when Bybit secured an In-Principle Approval from the SCA in February 2025. This initial step, facilitated with guidance from the Blockchain Centre in Abu Dhabi, paved the way for demonstrating the exchange’s resilient security architecture, operational clarity, and stringent adherence to compliance protocols. The granting of the full license signifies the regulator’s confidence in Bybit’s operational integrity.
This accomplishment is part of a series of significant regulatory successes for Bybit throughout 2025. The exchange previously obtained its MiCAR license in Europe during May and successfully resumed full trading services in India by September. These steps are all aligned with the company’s overarching strategy of prioritizing regulatory compliance as it expands its footprint across crucial international markets.
Ben Zhou, Co-founder and CEO of Bybit, commented on the achievement, stating, “Securing the full Virtual Asset Platform Operator License from the SCA is a clear validation of Bybit’s steadfast commitment to building trust through rigorous compliance and transparent operations. The UAE has positioned itself at the forefront of digital asset regulation, and this endorsement highlights the robustness of our security and governance frameworks. We view regulation as the essential bedrock for sustainable growth. This milestone represents a significant progression in our worldwide regulatory strategy, following our successes in Europe and India, as we continue to establish new benchmarks for a secure and responsible digital asset ecosystem.”
Helen Liu, Co-CEO of Bybit, added, “We extend our sincere gratitude to the Securities and Commodities Authority for their trust and guidance during the entire licensing procedure. The SCA’s transparent, strong, and well-defined regulatory structure offers a solid platform for international exchanges such as ours to function with assurance and precision. This milestone was made possible by the SCA’s progressive vision for nurturing innovation alongside compliance within the digital asset industry. We are excited to strengthen our partnership as we introduce more resources, innovative products, and specialized knowledge to the UAE marketplace.”
Looking ahead, under the provisions of the SCA license, Bybit is authorized to provide regulated services including virtual asset trading, brokerage, custody, and fiat currency conversion for both individual and institutional clients throughout the UAE.
The exchange has outlined ambitious plans to significantly grow its local presence. This includes establishing a larger regional operations center in Abu Dhabi, which is expected to employ over 500 professionals across Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Bybit will accelerate its recruitment efforts locally, focusing on roles in compliance, operations, and customer support. Furthermore, the company intends to launch new educational initiatives and Web3 innovation programs in cooperation with local partners.
Bybit’s ongoing investments in human capital, technological advancement, and infrastructure development reaffirm its long-term pledge to support the UAE’s goal of becoming a global nexus for digital assets and financial innovation.
(Source: MEA Tech Watch)
