Bitcoin Suisse Receives Abu Dhabi Approval for Crypto Expansion

Bitcoin Suisse, a leading Swiss crypto financial services provider, has received In-Principle Approval (IPA) from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). This approval, granted on May 20, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the company's strategic global expansion, allowing its subsidiary, BTCS (Middle East) Ltd., to pursue full licensing within ADGM. This regulatory framework is renowned for its rigorous and globally respected standards for virtual assets.

Once fully licensed, Bitcoin Suisse will be authorized to offer a range of regulated digital asset services in Abu Dhabi. These services include trading in cryptocurrencies, crypto securities, derivatives, and secure local custody solutions. The approval underscores Bitcoin Suisse's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of transparency, security, and regulatory compliance. Ceyda Majcen, Head of Global Expansion and designated Senior Executive Officer of BTCS (Middle East) Ltd., highlighted the strategic importance of this move, stating that Abu Dhabi, one of the Middle East’s fastest-growing financial centers, presents a compelling opportunity for growth. She expressed enthusiasm about working closely with the FSRA to obtain the full license and bring the company's decade of experience in crypto finance to the region’s rapidly evolving digital asset ecosystem.

Established in 2013, Bitcoin Suisse has been a foundational player in Switzerland’s Crypto Valley, becoming a trusted name in secure, compliant crypto asset solutions for both private and institutional clients. The company currently holds over $6 billion in digital assets under custody and manages over $2.6 billion in institutional staking services, positioning it as one of the world’s largest providers of digital asset custody and staking solutions.

The Middle East, particularly the United Arab Emirates, is rapidly emerging as a leading hub for cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation. The region's progressive regulatory frameworks and business-friendly environments are attracting major crypto firms seeking to expand their operations. The UAE offers a robust, multilayered regulatory environment, with the FSRA governing ADGM in Abu Dhabi, the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) regulating Dubai’s digital asset sector, and the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) overseeing broader crypto activities at the national level. This structured approach has turned the UAE into a magnet for international crypto firms, with record growth in digital asset engagement in the past year.

The UAE’s ambition to become a leading global crypto hub is reflected in its dedicated free zones, such as the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) and Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis, which offer regulatory autonomy and business incubation for digital asset firms. Major financial institutions and global crypto firms are deepening their presence in the Gulf, with sovereign funds like Mubadala making direct investments in crypto. This trend is further cementing the Middle East’s status as a magnet for institutional capital and innovation.

Bitcoin Suisse’s latest approval from the FSRA is a key part of their plan to grow in the industry. By making this move, it intends to become more active internationally and help the growth of virtual assets in the UAE. The IPA marks Bitcoin Suisse’s reliable work and focus on keeping risks down while meeting legal rules. After it obtains its full license, the company is planning to upgrade its products and services for its growing international clients.