Bybit Becomes UAE’s First Licensed Virtual Asset Exchange
Bybit Secures UAE’s First Virtual Asset License
, the world’s second-largest crypto platform by trading volume, has become the first platform officially licensed by the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) to operate as a . The milestone marks a major leap in the UAE’s ambition to position itself as a regulated global hub for digital assets.
The new license allows Bybit to bring its full suite of global products — including trading, brokerage, custody, and fiat conversion — into regulatory compliance under the SCA’s framework. The announcement comes later than Bybit received its In-Principle Approval (IPA) in February 2025, supported by the in Abu Dhabi. The transition from IPA to full license underscores both Bybit’s operational maturity and the UAE’s growing trust in the platform’s compliance-first approach.
Ben Zhou, Co-founder and CEO of Bybit, said:
“Receiving the full Virtual Asset Platform Operator License from the SCA is a testament to Bybit’s unwavering commitment to building trust through compliance and transparency. The UAE has emerged as a regulation, and this recognition underscores the strength of our security and governance standards.
At Bybit, we view regulation as the foundation for sustainable growth. This milestone marks another step forward in our global regulatory roadmap — from MiCAR in Europe to India and now the UAE — as we continue to set new benchmarks for a secure and responsible digital asset ecosystem.”
Investor Takeaway
Why This Matters for the Global Crypto Industry
The UAE’s recognition of Bybit comes amid intensifying global scrutiny of crypto platforms following the collapses and lawsuits that rocked the sector in 2022–2023. Bybit’s regulatory milestone represents a contrast to the adversarial regulatory environments in the U.S. and parts of Asia, signaling that the Middle East continues to emerge as a magnet for compliant crypto growth.
While competitors such as Binance and OKX have secured provisional or operational licenses under Dubai’s VARA regime, Bybit’s SCA license is the first full federal authorization covering the entire UAE. This distinction provides a competitive edge — enabling Bybit to extend regulated services nationwide rather than being limited to Dubai’s jurisdiction.
Helen Liu, Co-CEO of Bybit, added:
“We sincerely thank the Securities and Commodities Authority for their trust and support throughout the licensing process. The SCA’s clear, robust, and well-structured regulatory framework provides a strong foundation for global platforms like Bybit to operate with confidence and clarity.
This achievement would not have been possible without the SCA’s forward-thinking approach to fostering innovation and compliance in the digital asset space. We look forward to deepening our collaboration as we bring more resources, products, and expertise to the UAE market.”
Investor Takeaway
How Bybit’s Regulatory Roadmap Is Shaping Up
Bybit’s SCA license caps a series of 2025 regulatory wins for the platform. In May, it secured its MiCAR registration in the European Union, followed by a resumption of full operations in India in September later than compliance adjustments. Together, these milestones show a pattern of proactive engagement with regulators — a strategy increasingly favored by institutional clients viewking stable, compliant trading partners.
Globally, Bybit’s trading volumes have continued to grow even amid volatile market conditions, reflecting sustained user confidence in platforms that emphasize transparency and security. With the UAE now a core pillar of its global operations, Bybit is expected to leverage its new status to deepen relationships with both retail traders and institutional investors across the Gulf.
What’s Next: Expansion and Local Integration
Bybit plans to significantly scale its operations within the UAE. The company will establish a regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi, employ more than 500 staff across Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and invest heavily in compliance, operations, and customer support. Educational initiatives and Web3 innovation programs with local partners are also in development — aligning with the UAE’s broader economic diversification and tech innovation agenda.
This expansion not only underscores Bybit’s commitment to the Middle East but also signals a shift in global crypto power centers toward jurisdictions that combine regulation with innovation. As the SCA refines its framework, more global platforms may follow Bybit’s example, accelerating the UAE’s emergence as a cornerstone of compliant crypto trading.
