Animoca Brands has received a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license from the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, strengthening its presence in the Middle East’s rapidly developing digital asset market. The approval, issued on Feb. 5, authorizes the company to provide broker-dealer and investment management services for virtual assets in and from Dubai, excluding the Dubai International Financial Centre.
The license enables Animoca Brands to serve institutional and qualified investors under VARA’s regulatory framework. Established in 2022, VARA oversees digital asset activities across Dubai’s mainland and designated free zones, positioning the emirate as a structured and compliance-focused crypto hub.
Institutional Focus and Strategic Growth in the UAE
With the new authorization, Animoca Brands aims to deepen engagement with Web3 foundations and institutional investors seeking regulated exposure to blockchain-based ventures. The company has built a broad portfolio of more than 600 investments across gaming, digital collectibles, and decentralized platforms, including projects such as The Sandbox.
Dubai continues attracting major crypto firms pursuing regulatory clarity in the region. VARA has simultaneously increased enforcement, recently penalizing unlicensed virtual asset activities to reinforce compliance standards. Animoca’s approval reflects the emirate’s strategy to balance innovation with oversight as competition among global crypto hubs intensifies.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.