The United Arab Emirates has taken a significant step in the international crypto sector by introducing
Federal Decree Law No. 6 of 2025
, which brings DeFi platforms, Web3 protocols, stablecoin providers, decentralized exchanges (DEXs), and blockchain bridges under the direct supervision of the UAE Central Bank. This legislation,
coming into force in mid-September 2025
, requires all organizations offering financial services—such as lending, asset custody, or trading—to obtain a license by September 2026. This marks one of the most far-reaching regulatory approaches to decentralized finance so far. The new rules put an end to the belief that decentralized models or smart contracts are outside regulatory reach,
enforcing consistent standards
for digital asset service providers regardless of their technical setup.
The law’s coverage is broad, including decentralized finance protocols, tokenized networks, and tools that enable cross-chain asset movement. By placing these activities under centralized regulation, the UAE seeks to boost transparency, strengthen anti-money laundering (AML) measures, and shield users from systemic threats—especially in areas like stablecoins, where liquidity issues could have widespread financial consequences
according to market analysis
. For example, stablecoin providers are now required to meet strict reporting standards, such as regular audits of reserves and liquidity, to avoid failures similar to those seen in previous market disruptions
as reported by industry experts
. The regulations also apply to DEXs and blockchain bridges, which must now prove they have strong security protocols and governance systems to guard against risks like smart contract vulnerabilities and cyberattacks
as the Central Bank states
.
The UAE’s regulatory strategy aims to strike a balance between encouraging technological advancement and maintaining financial stability. By creating a transparent licensing process, the country positions itself as a welcoming environment for crypto businesses, while also reducing the unpredictability often associated with decentralized technologies
according to financial analysts
. This approach fits with the UAE’s larger goal of expanding its economy beyond oil, as demonstrated by its recent $1 billion investment in AI initiatives in Africa and
a 230% increase
in
Bitcoin
ETF assets managed by the Abu Dhabi Investment Council. For companies native to the crypto sector, these new regulations bring both hurdles and prospects: while compliance expenses may grow, the regulatory certainty could draw institutional investors and enhance confidence in the UAE as a center for digital finance
as the industry observes
.
Importantly, the law gives organizations until September 2026 to meet the new requirements, allowing time for adjustment. However, failing to comply could result in hefty fines—up to one billion dirhams—and possible criminal prosecution
according to regulatory filings
. This has led to debate within the crypto community, with some developers worried about potential barriers to innovation, while others see the regulations as essential for legitimizing Web3 technologies
as experts note
. The Central Bank’s role in defining licensing standards and ensuring adherence will be crucial in shaping the market’s direction over the next year and a half
according to financial reports
.
By expanding its regulatory framework to include DeFi and Web3, the UAE has established a new standard for global crypto oversight. This move highlights the nation’s dedication to building a robust digital finance sector that safeguards users while embracing the innovative potential of blockchain. As other countries consider how to govern decentralized technologies, the UAE’s approach provides a model for merging innovation with structured regulation.
