UAE Clarifies Bitcoin Is Not Banned, Says Crypto Firms Need Licenses
UAE authorities clarified that Bitcoin is not banned and that residents remain free to buy, hold and trade BTC, while firms that provide exchange, custody or other crypto services must be licensed. The announcement was issued to correct circulating reports suggesting a blanket prohibition and emphasizes that regulatory oversight targets businesses rather than retail ownership.
The clarification should ease short-term market jitters and support trading activity in the region by signaling legal certainty instead of enforcement by prohibition. For exchanges and fintechs, licensing raises compliance costs but also creates a clearer operating pathway; for consumers, it promises stronger protections. The stance aligns with the UAE’s strategy to be a regulated crypto hub and may attract compliant firms eyeing the Middle East market.