What is Abu Dhabi (Emirate)'s FATF status?

Abu Dhabi (Emirate) is classified by FATF as: fsrb_only.

Are VASPs licensed in Abu Dhabi (Emirate)?

Yes — licensing is required for VASPs.

What is the AML/KYC regime in Abu Dhabi (Emirate)?

KYC is mandatory for crypto businesses.

Abu Dhabi (Emirate) — Crypto Regulation 2026

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) provides a progressive and transparent regulatory framework for crypto businesses, fostering a crypto-friendly environment with robust AML/CFT compliance and international tax reporting obligations.

Overview

Status	crypto_friendly
Risk Score	15/100 (Low Risk)
Region	middle east
Currency	AED

Tax Information

VAT on Crypto

The regulatory text does not specify explicit tax rates or rules for crypto activities, but the jurisdiction is known for a tax-friendly environment.

Licensing & Registration

Required	Yes
Regulator	ADGM FSRA / SCA
Framework	ADGM Financial Services and Markets Regulations (FSMR) and SCA regulations
Ease	medium

Licensing is governed under the FSMR and SCA regulations with a structured application process via the ACCESSADGM portal.

Enforcement Activity

Level: Low

No significant enforcement actions reported; jurisdiction actively encourages crypto business

AML / KYC

KYC Required	Yes
Travel Rule	Yes
FATF Member	No
FATF Status	fsrb_only
FATF Body	FATF
Suspicious-Activity Reporting	Yes

DeFi, Stablecoins & NFTs

Status: regulated

DeFi activities are regulated under the ADGM framework, ensuring compliance with AML and financial regulations.

Stablecoins

Status: regulated

Stablecoins fall under the regulatory scope of ADGM's financial services regulations, ensuring oversight and compliance.

NFTs

Status: no_rules

No specific NFT regulation; generally permitted

Mining

Legal	Yes
Electricity Cost	$0.06/kWh
Renewable Energy	5%
Infrastructure	good

Mining is legal with access to competitive electricity rates and good infrastructure in Abu Dhabi.

Geopolitical Risk

Stability	stable
Sanctions	No
Corruption Index	67/100
Banking Access	open

Risk Factors

regional geopolitical tensions

Abu Dhabi offers a stable and business-friendly environment with open banking access and free internet, though regional tensions remain a consideration.