Crypto & Web3
Virtual Asset Services (regulated) licence in the UAE
Brokerage, exchange or custody with regulator approval. 5 free zones on Freezone King license this activity — starting from AED 15,450. Filter by emirate and visas below, then buy online or ask for a quote.
Needs a regulator licence (e.g. VARA, FSRA or DFSA). We handle it for you.
Free zones that allow virtual asset services (regulated)
- RAK DAOLowest price
Ras Al Khaimah ~10 days up to 6 visas
RAK DAO Starter (no visa) · 0 visas · Flexi-desk
Prices are “from” estimates and subject to free zone fees. Confirm the final quote with our advisor before you pay.
How to start a virtual asset services (regulated) business in a UAE free zone
Starting a virtual asset services (regulated) company in a UAE free zone is straightforward when the activity is on the zone's approved list. You choose a free zone that licenses it, pick a package with the number of visas you need, and submit your passport copy and photo. Most zones issue the licence within a few working days.
Price is only one part of the decision. Think about where your customers are, whether you need to hold stock or a warehouse, how many people you will hire, and how important a well-known address is for your bank and clients. With 5 zones to choose from, you can usually find a good balance of cost and credibility.
Licence type: Crypto & Virtual Assets Licence
Crypto and Web3 businesses can set up in specialised zones like DMCC Crypto Centre, RAK DAO, DWTC, ADGM and DIFC.
Learn more about the crypto & virtual assets licenceSteps
- Pick a free zone from the list above (or ask us to recommend one).
- Choose a package and pay securely online.
- Upload passport copies and photos for all shareholders.
- We reserve your trade name and submit your application.
- Receive your licence, then we process visas and bank account opening.
Virtual Asset Services (regulated) — FAQs
Which free zones allow virtual asset services (regulated)?
5 free zones on our list license this activity, across 3 emirates: DMCC, DWTC, DIFC, ADGM, RAK DAO.
What is the cheapest free zone for virtual asset services (regulated)?
RAK DAO in Ras Al Khaimah currently has the lowest estimated starting price at AED 15,450 for a licence without visas. The best choice also depends on visas, office needs and banking.
What licence type do I need for virtual asset services (regulated)?
Usually a crypto & virtual assets licence. Blockchain, Web3 and virtual asset services.
Can I add other activities to the same licence?
In most free zones, yes — usually up to 3–10 related activities on one licence, depending on the zone and package. Some zones also allow mixing trading and services.
Do I need any special approval?
Yes. Needs a regulator licence (e.g. VARA, FSRA or DFSA). We handle the application for you.
Start your virtual asset services (regulated) company today
Tell us about your business. An advisor will recommend the best free zone and send you a full cost breakdown — usually within one working hour.
- Honest advice across all free zones
- Full cost breakdown — no hidden fees
- Licence, visa, bank account and tax in one place