---
type: subdivision
domain: crypto-regulation
status: stable
tags: ["crypto-regulation", "middle_east", "fatf", "crypto_friendly"]
aliases: ["AE-AUH", "ARE-AUH", "Abu Dhabi"]
created: 2026-04-13
updated: 2026-04-02
compile_into: ["[[country--united-arab-emirates]]"]
sources:
  - name: "ADGM FSRA / SCA"
    url: "https://www.adgm.com"
    type: "official"
  - name: "ADGM Financial Services and Markets Regulations (FSMR) and SCA regulations"
    url: "https://www.adgm.com"
    type: "framework"
---

# 🇦🇪 Abu Dhabi (Emirate) (AE-AUH) — Crypto Regulation

> 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

| Field | Value |
|-------|-------|
| Status | crypto_friendly |
| Sub-jurisdiction of | [[country--united-arab-emirates|United Arab Emirates]] |
| Risk Score | 15/100 (Low Risk) |
| Enforcement Level | Low |
| Region | [[domain--middle-east|middle east]] |
| Currency | [[entity--aed|AED]] |

## Tax

| Type | Rate |
|------|------|
| VAT on Crypto | No |

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

| Field | Value |
|-------|-------|
| Required | Yes |
| Regulator | [[entity--adgm-fsra|ADGM FSRA]] / SCA |
| Framework | ADGM Financial Services and Markets Regulations (FSMR) and SCA regulations |
| Ease | medium |
| Cost | N/A |
| Timeline | N/A months |

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

## 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 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

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

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

## 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 / SCA](https://www.adgm.com)
- [ADGM Financial Services and Markets Regulations (FSMR) and SCA regulations](https://www.adgm.com)