---
type: free_zone
domain: crypto-regulation
status: stable
tags: ["crypto-regulation", "middle_east", "fatf", "crypto_friendly"]
aliases: ["ADGM", "ARE-ADGM"]
created: 2026-04-13
updated: 2025-12-01
compile_into: ["[[country--united-arab-emirates]]"]
sources:
  - name: "ADGM FSRA"
    url: "https://www.adgm.com"
    type: "official"
---

#  Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) — Crypto Regulation

> 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.

## Overview

| Field | Value |
|-------|-------|
| Status | crypto_friendly |
| Sub-jurisdiction of | [[country--united-arab-emirates|United Arab Emirates]] |
| Risk Score | 10/100 (Low Risk) |
| Enforcement Level | Low |
| Region | [[domain--middle-east|middle east]] |
| Currency | [[entity--aed|AED]] |

## Tax

| Type | Rate |
|------|------|
| 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.

## Licensing

| Field | Value |
|-------|-------|
| Required | Yes |
| Regulator | [[entity--fsra|FSRA]] |
| Framework | ADGM Virtual Asset Framework |
| Ease | medium |
| Cost | $25,000 - $150,000 |
| Timeline | 3-6 months |

Licensing is governed under the ADGM Virtual Asset Framework with clear application processes and compliance requirements.

## AML / KYC

| Field | Value |
|-------|-------|
| KYC Required | Yes |
| Travel Rule | Yes |
| [[concept--fatf|FATF]] Member | No |
| FATF Status | fsrb_only |

## DeFi

**Status:** regulated

DeFi activities are regulated under the ADGM Virtual Asset Framework, requiring compliance with AML and licensing rules.

## Stablecoins

**Status:** regulated

Stablecoins are regulated under the ADGM Virtual Asset Framework with specific requirements for issuance and custody.

## NFTs

**Status:** no_rules

No specific NFT regulation; generally permitted

## Mining

| Field | Value |
|-------|-------|
| Legal | Yes |
| Electricity Cost | $0.06/kWh |
| Renewable Energy | 5% |
| Climate | arid |
| Infrastructure | good |

Mining is legal with access to reliable infrastructure and competitive electricity costs.

## Geopolitics

| Field | Value |
|-------|-------|
| Stability | stable |
| Sanctions | No |
| Corruption Index | 67/100 |
| Ease of Business | easy |
| Internet Freedom | free |
| Banking Access | open |

## Enforcement

No significant enforcement actions reported; jurisdiction actively encourages crypto business

## CBDC Status: pilot

---

*Data source: [Soken Crypto Legal Map](https://soken.io/crypto-map/). Last reviewed: 2026-04-13.*

**Sources:**
- [ADGM FSRA](https://www.adgm.com)