Become a Licensed VARA Broker-Dealer in Dubai

We help you navigate licensing, compliance, and infrastructure to operate legally under the UAE’s most advanced regulatory framework.

For institutional founders, OTC desks, and crypto investment firms

Why Dubai Is the Epicenter of Crypto Brokerage Regulation

VARA Oversight

The Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority offers clear licensing pathways for Broker-Dealers, creating institutional credibility and future-proof operations.

Global Capital Gateway

Dubai provides the jurisdictional strength and legal clarity required to onboard banks, funds, exchanges, and high-net-worth investors.

Market Expansion

From regulated OTC to market-making and crypto fundraising, the Broker-Dealer license enables a broad spectrum of legal trading and client servicing activity.

How We Help You Become a Regulated Broker-Dealer

01 Strategic Fit Analysis

We evaluate your legal structure, business model, and jurisdiction goals to align with VARA regulatory pathways.

02 Entity Formation

We establish your company in the ideal UAE zone: Mainland, DMCC, or DWTC, with the legal format needed for Broker-Dealer operations.

04 Approval & Go-Live

Once approved, we connect you with compliant banks, custody providers, liquidity venues, and infrastructure partners to launch.

03 Regulatory Documentation

We develop and submit all required VARA documents including risk controls, business plans, AML/CFT, market conduct, and internal systems.

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Jurisdiction Options

Mainland Dubai

Maximum credibility for regulated OTC, wealth advisory, and domestic client onboarding. Required for certain activities under DED.

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)

Ideal for fund-backed Broker-Dealers, hedge desk infrastructure, or international projects needing premium status and visibility.

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)

Purpose-built for virtual asset firms. Offers proximity to regulators and direct access to VARA’s operating ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs a VARA Broker-Dealer license in Dubai?

Any crypto brokerage, OTC desk, or investment firm that facilitates digital asset trading on behalf of clients must obtain a VARA Broker-Dealer license to operate legally in Dubai.

How long does the licensing process typically take?

The process may take between 3 to 6 months, depending on the business model, completeness of documentation, and VARA’s internal review cycle. SVG assists in fast-tracking this through precise regulatory alignment.

Which is the best jurisdiction to set up a Broker-Dealer firm under VARA?

This depends on your business focus. Mainland Dubai offers maximum regulatory credibility, DMCC is ideal for international funds, and DWTC is optimized for crypto-native companies. SVG helps you choose the best fit.

Does VARA require capital or compliance prerequisites?

Yes. VARA mandates internal policies like AML/CFT, market conduct, and cybersecurity standards. Capital requirements depend on the license category. Our team ensures your setup meets every condition from day one.