Decision No. 4/R.M/2026 replaces the 2023 Federal framework entirely. Eight new licence categories, mandatory capital floors, hard bans on privacy and algorithmic tokens, and deadlines
From VARA Category 1 and Category 2 issuance to the CBUAE for AED-payment tokens, the UAE provides clear routes for issuing all major token types: RWAs, stablecoins, utility, and security tokens.
Nineteen firms were hit with financial penalties for operating or promoting virtual asset services in Dubai without a license. Penalties range from AED 100,000 to AED 600,000
Here are my 7 biggest takeaways from Token2049, insights that matter especially for UAE crypto founders and anyone planning their next big move in this space.