The Dubai Financial Services Authority has brought into force an updated regulatory framework for crypto tokens in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
The regulator announced the changes follow a consultation process in October 2025 and reflect developments since the launch of the crypto token regime in 2022.
Under the updated regime, firms providing financial services involving crypto tokens are now responsible for determining whether each crypto token meets the DFSA’s suitability criteria. The assessment must be reasoned and documented.
Dubai financial regulator shifts crypto token assessment responsibility to firms
The DFSA will no longer publish a list of recognised crypto tokens as a result of this change.
The regulator has monitored market developments and engaged with industry stakeholders and counterparts over the past three years to ensure its rules remain robust and aligned.
The reform includes safeguards for investors, conduct and operational requirements, and reporting obligations that reflect the state of the digital assets market.
“The DFSA’s enhancements to the Crypto Token regime reflect our progressive stance on innovation and proactive response to market developments and feedback. These updated rules provide firms with greater clarity and flexibility, and ensure that our regulatory crypto token regime remains aligned with international best practice. As digital assets continue to evolve, our objective remains clear – to maintain a transparent, and predictable regulatory framework that safeguards market integrity and enables sustainable and responsible market development in DIFC,” Charlotte Robins, Managing Director, Policy & Legal of the DFSA said in a statement.
DIFC crypto token framework brings enhanced investor safeguards and reporting requirements
The updated framework provides a pathway for firms operating or seeking to operate in DIFC for activities involving crypto tokens, including trading, fund and asset management, custody, advisory, and financial services.
The DFSA will host a webinar on January 27, 2026 to support understanding of the updated framework and provide perspective on how the DFSA and DIFC support innovation in digital assets.
The session will provide an overview of the DFSA’s approach to crypto tokens, the evolution of the regime, and how the DIFC’s ecosystem supports innovation. The webinar is for market participants seeking to understand the environment, the DIFC ecosystem, and opportunities for firms considering establishing or expanding digital asset activities in the DIFC.
Registration is available online. The rules came into force on January 12, 2026.
