GAP 3 Partners Becomes First Regulated Virtual Asset Advisor in Dubai

GAP 3 Partners has received a full operational license from the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) in Dubai, marking a significant milestone as the first regulated Virtual Asset Investment Advisor in the Emirate. This license, granted on June 23, 2025, enables the firm to offer comprehensive advisory services on token strategy, licensing, treasury management, and real-world asset tokenization to institutional clients and family offices across Dubai.

The firm's compliance with VARA's regulations is confirmed through the authority's public registry, setting it apart from other firms that may only have conditional approvals. This regulatory endorsement is expected to create a compliant gateway for institutional money to enter the digital asset market, fostering a more structured and secure environment for virtual asset investments.

GAP 3 Partners was founded by a team of industry veterans, including Robin Janaway from Outlier Ventures, Chris Donovan from the NEAR Foundation, and seasoned blockchain advisor Adib Tohme. The firm operates as an institutional-grade advisory service, focusing on high-level virtual asset strategy, structuring, licensing, treasury management, and token-market execution. This expertise positions GAP 3 Partners as a trusted advisor for institutional clients navigating the complexities of the digital asset landscape.

The licensing of GAP 3 Partners by VARA is a strategic move that aligns with Dubai's broader efforts to establish itself as a global hub for digital assets and blockchain technology. By providing a regulated framework for virtual asset investment advisory services, Dubai aims to attract institutional investors and foster innovation in the digital asset sector. This development is likely to enhance the Emirate's reputation as a forward-thinking financial center, capable of adapting to the evolving needs of the digital economy.

The regulatory approval granted to GAP 3 Partners is a testament to the firm's commitment to compliance and its ability to meet the stringent requirements set by VARA. This achievement not only validates the firm's operational standards but also underscores the importance of regulatory compliance in the digital asset industry. As more firms seek to operate within the regulated framework, the licensing of GAP 3 Partners serves as a benchmark for other players in the market, emphasizing the need for transparency, security, and adherence to regulatory standards.

In summary, the licensing of GAP 3 Partners by VARA marks a significant milestone in Dubai's digital asset landscape. The firm's regulatory approval is expected to pave the way for institutional investors to enter the market with confidence, knowing that they are working with a compliant and trusted advisor. This development is likely to drive further growth and innovation in the digital asset sector, positioning Dubai as a leading hub for virtual asset investments.