ADGM offers a progressive and transparent regulatory framework for crypto businesses, supported by the ADGM Virtual Asset Framework (2023, amended 2025). It provides a robust environment with clear licensing and compliance obligations, promoting innovation and integrity.
| Status | crypto_friendly |
| Risk Score | 10/100 (Low Risk) |
| Region | middle east |
| Currency | AED |
| Capital Gains (Personal) | 0% (no personal income tax in ADGM/Abu Dhabi) |
| Capital Gains (Corporate) | 0% in ADGM free zone (9% UAE federal rate outside free zone) |
| VAT on Crypto | No |
The regulator page does not explicitly state specific tax rates or rules for crypto activities, but ADGM is known for a tax-friendly environment with no VAT on crypto transactions.
| Required | Yes |
| Regulator | FSRA |
| Framework | ADGM Virtual Asset Framework |
| Ease | medium |
| Cost (USD) | $25,000 - $150,000 |
Licensing is governed under the ADGM Virtual Asset Framework with clear application processes and compliance requirements.
No significant enforcement actions reported; jurisdiction actively encourages crypto business
| KYC Required | Yes |
| Travel Rule | Yes |
| FATF Member | No |
| FATF Status | fsrb_only |
| FATF Body | FATF |
| Suspicious-Activity Reporting | Yes |
Status: regulated
DeFi activities are regulated under the ADGM Virtual Asset Framework, requiring compliance with AML and licensing rules.
Status: regulated
Stablecoins are regulated under the ADGM Virtual Asset Framework with specific requirements for issuance and custody.
Status: no_rules
No specific NFT regulation; generally permitted
| Legal | Yes |
| Electricity Cost | $0.06/kWh |
| Renewable Energy | 5% |
| Infrastructure | good |
Mining is legal with access to reliable infrastructure and competitive electricity costs.
| Stability | stable |
| Sanctions | No |
| Corruption Index | 67/100 |
| Banking Access | open |
Risk Factors
ADGM benefits from the UAE's stable political environment, strong infrastructure, and open banking system, though regional tensions remain a moderate risk.
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Explore IT Services →Last reviewed: 2026-04-13 · Data source: Soken Crypto Legal Map
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