Dubai’s financial regulator has implemented major updates for crypto activities in the Dubai International Financial Centre. The Dubai Financial Services Authority announced that its revised Crypto Token Regulatory Framework is now effective. Moreover, the changes aim to strengthen investor protection, improve regulatory clarity for firms, and support the expansion of a regulated digital assets ecosystem in DIFC.
The update follows a consultation launched in October 2025 and reflects the regulator’s evolving approach since the crypto regime was introduced in 2022. As a result, the new framework is expected to influence how digital asset firms operate, scale, and structure their workforce in the emirate.
Shift in responsibility under the DFSA crypto framework
One of the most significant changes involves transferring responsibility from the regulator to firms. Under the updated rules, companies offering crypto-related financial services in DIFC must conduct their own documented assessments to determine whether a crypto token meets suitability criteria. Consequently, the DFSA will no longer maintain or publish a list of recognised crypto tokens.
The regulator stated that this approach provides firms with greater flexibility. However, it also places clear accountability on companies for the assets they make available to clients.
Clearer operating framework for crypto firms in DIFC
The revised DFSA crypto framework introduces enhanced safeguards for investors, alongside refined conduct and operational requirements. Additionally, it establishes proportionate reporting obligations that better reflect current conditions in global digital asset markets.
For businesses, the rules provide clearer guidance across various activities, including trading, asset and fund management, custody, advisory services, and other crypto-related financial services. Therefore, the framework aims to strike a balance between innovation and robust oversight, ensuring market integrity.
Employment impact of DFSA crypto rule changes
The regulatory update is expected to support continued growth in DIFC’s digital assets sector. As a result, industry participants anticipate increased hiring across compliance, legal, technology, risk, operations, and product functions. Executives note that clearer rules reduce uncertainty for global crypto and fintech firms considering expansion in Dubai.
Moreover, demand for skills in blockchain, cybersecurity, data, payments, and financial services is likely to rise. Salaries in the UAE’s digital assets sector remain competitive, particularly for experienced engineers, compliance specialists, and product leaders, as firms compete for limited talent pools.
Charlotte Robins, Managing Director of Policy and Legal at the DFSA, said the updates demonstrate a progressive regulatory approach. “The DFSA’s enhancements to the Crypto Token regime reflect our progressive stance on innovation and proactive response to market developments and feedback,” she said. “These updated rules provide firms with greater clarity and flexibility, and ensure that our regulatory crypto token regime remains aligned with international best practice.”
She added that the regulator aims to maintain a transparent and predictable framework that safeguards market integrity while enabling sustainable development in DIFC.
