Revolut Clears Regulatory Hurdle for Crypto Services in UAE

Revolut has secured provisional approval from Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) to offer cryptocurrency services in the UAE.

The fintech company obtained this approval on July 15, which covers broker-dealer, management and investment services, and cryptocurrency exchange capabilities.

This is part of Revolut's carefully orchestrated licensing strategy to expand its presence in the Middle East.

Revolut had previously secured two critical banking licenses from the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) in June 2026: a Stored Value Facilities license and a Retail Payment Services (Category II) license.

This layered approach reflects lessons learned across regulated markets where fragmented licensing has tripped up competitors.