Bitcoin News Today: Binance Secures Full-License Crypto Push in Abu Dhabi

Binance's Abu Dhabi Regulatory Expansion

Binance has received a major regulatory boost in Abu Dhabi, securing three licenses that allow it to operate its exchange, clearing infrastructure, and broker-dealer services within the emirate. The approvals, granted by Abu Dhabi's Financial Services Regulatory Authority during Abu Dhabi Finance Week, represent one of the most comprehensive regulatory authorizations the crypto exchange has received to date. The move positions Binance to offer a full suite of services, from trading and custody to off-exchange operations, under the regulatory umbrella of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).

The licenses are part of a broader push by Binance to establish a strong regulatory presence in the UAE, a region that has become a major hub for financial innovation and digital assets. The exchange has already received a $2 billion investment from MGX, an AI-focused investor chaired by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, further deepening its ties to the region. The approval also comes as Abu Dhabi continues to expand its own investments in crypto, including a significant increase in its stake in a Bitcoin ETF.

Richard Teng, Binance's co-CEO, has previously highlighted the UAE as a potential location for the exchange's global headquarters, especially given his background at ADGM, the free zone that has been instrumental in fostering crypto-friendly regulation. Binance has yet to finalize the location of its headquarters, but the regulatory clarity in Abu Dhabi represents a key step forward in its global expansion strategy.

A Strategic Move for Binance

The licenses granted to Binance in Abu Dhabi cover three distinct entities: a regulated exchange, a clearing house, and a broker-dealer. These entities will be operated under the "Nest" brand, enabling the exchange to offer traditional financial-market services in the digital asset space. The approval brings Binance closer to the infrastructure of traditional exchanges, where trading, settlement, and custody are handled by distinct, regulated entities. This development could help bridge the gap between crypto and traditional financial systems, a key goal for many regulators and market participants.

The move also reflects Binance's broader strategy to align with global regulatory standards. ADGM is widely regarded as one of the most respected financial regulators in the Middle East and beyond. Teng has stated that the approval demonstrates Binance's commitment to meeting international standards for compliance, risk management, and consumer protection.

Abu Dhabi's Growing Crypto Appetite

Abu Dhabi's push into digital assets has been accelerating, with the Abu Dhabi Investment Council (ADIC) significantly increasing its stake in a Bitcoin ETF in the third quarter of 2025. According to a regulatory filing, the ADIC raised its holdings in BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF to nearly eight million shares by the end of September. At the time, the position was valued at around $518 million.

The ADIC's move came just before the broader crypto market entered a selloff. This highlights the emirate's willingness to take a long-term view on digital assets, even as volatility remains a challenge. Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth fund, which manages a $2 trillion portfolio, has been positioning itself as a major player in the crypto space, with a focus on both investment and regulatory leadership.

Binance remains the largest crypto exchange globally, with a market share of about 35% as of December 2025. The regulatory approvals in Abu Dhabi are expected to strengthen its competitive position, particularly in a market where regulatory compliance is increasingly becoming a differentiator for crypto platforms. The exchange has also taken steps to improve governance and leadership, with co-founder Yi He recently named as co-CEO.

A New Chapter for Binance

The approval in Abu Dhabi comes amid a broader restructuring for Binance. Founder Changpeng Zhao stepped down as CEO in 2023 after pleading guilty in the U.S. to failing to implement anti-money laundering safeguards. The exchange also agreed to pay over $4.3 billion to resolve a years-long U.S. investigation. Zhao was later pardoned by U.S. President Donald Trump in October 2025.

Despite these challenges, Binance has continued to grow its global footprint, with users in the U.S. required to trade on the separate Binance.US platform. The company has more than 300 million registered users and has processed over $125 trillion in cumulative trading volume. The recent regulatory developments in Abu Dhabi represent a pivotal moment in Binance's evolution, as it seeks to rebuild its reputation and expand its services in a more regulated environment.