Gate Dubai Secures Full VASP License, Expands Crypto Services

Gate Technology FZE, a subsidiary of Gate Group, has been granted a full Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license by Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA). This license allows Gate Dubai to offer a comprehensive suite of cryptocurrency services, including spot trading, fiat on-ramp/off-ramp, deposits, withdrawals, and custody services to institutional, professional, and retail clients. This regulatory approval is a significant milestone in Gate Group’s global expansion strategy, which prioritizes compliance and regulatory adherence.

Dubai’s progressive and clear regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies makes it an ideal hub for Gate’s Middle East operations. The emirate’s supportive environment for digital assets, combined with its robust fintech ecosystem, positions it as a leading global center for digital assets. VARA’s licensing regime provides clear guidelines on governance, capital requirements, and operational safeguards, making it one of the most stringent in the Middle East. Gate Group’s CEO has highlighted Dubai’s forward-thinking approach to cryptocurrencies, emphasizing the emirate’s ambitions in fintech innovation and its role as a bridge between the East and West.

With the regulatory clearance in hand, Gate Dubai is rapidly scaling its operations. The company is expanding its local team by hiring compliance officers, security engineers, and customer support personnel who are well-versed in VARA standards. Additionally, Gate Dubai is deploying enterprise-grade trading infrastructure capable of handling high throughput and low-latency order execution. The company is also integrating AML/KYC systems tailored to regional requirements, ensuring seamless onboarding for both retail and institutional users. Furthermore, Gate Dubai is establishing partnerships with local banking and payment providers to facilitate direct AED on- and off-ramps.

Gate Dubai’s initial product offerings will include spot trading, custody solutions, OTC desks, API trading, and staking and yield products. These services are designed to cater to both everyday users and advanced institutional requirements, leveraging Gate Group’s existing technology and liquidity. The product mix aims to address the growing demand for digital assets in the Middle East, driven by a young, tech-savvy population, sovereign wealth funds exploring blockchain-based asset classes, and free-zone incentives for international investors.

Gate Group’s network of licensed entities now spans four continents, demonstrating a strong commitment to local compliance. The Group’s presence includes Gate EU in Lithuania, Gate Italia in Italy, Gate Gibraltar in Gibraltar, Gate Malta in Malta, Gate AR in Argentina, Gate Bahamas in The Bahamas, Gate HK in Hong Kong, and Gate Japan through the acquisition of Coin Master. By aligning with top-tier regulators, Gate Group ensures consistent standards in risk management, customer protection, and market integrity across its global footprint.

Under VARA’s framework, Gate Dubai must adhere to stringent regulatory safeguards, including capital requirements, AML/KYC controls, cybersecurity standards, and consumer protection measures. These safeguards aim to build consumer confidence, reduce systemic risk, and set a high bar for other market participants. With the VARA license secured, Gate Group is well-positioned to extend its compliance-first ethos into the Middle East, combining regulatory rigor with innovative crypto services to capture a rapidly expanding market.