Bybit crypto exchange appoints country manager to oversee MENA

Despite the current environment, Bybit, UAE regulated under CMA (Capital Markets Authority) previously known as SCA ( Security and Commodities Authority) regulated crypto exchange has appointed Derek Dai, as Country Manager for MENA ( Middle East and North Africa) residing out of the UAE.

Bybit noted in its announcement, the this reinforces its long term commitment to the UAE which it sees as a strategic hub for digital asset innovation.

Dai will be leading Bybit regional MENA strategy including expansion operations, regulatory collaboration, institutional partnerships, and product development. Bybit seesk to expand AED Fiat access, and build partnerships with banks and payment providers as well as develop shariah compliant products.

“The UAE gave Bybit a home. You do not abandon your home when the storm comes, you stand in the doorway,” said Helen Liu, co-CEO of Bybit. “Some companies are reassessing their Gulf exposure right now. We are doing the opposite. We are deepening our presence, our investment, and our commitment to this region.”

“The Middle East is emerging as one of the most important regions shaping the future of digital finance, with the UAE leading the way in building a progressive and well-regulated ecosystem,” said Derek Dai, Country Manager for MENA at Bybit.

DAI notes that Bybit will deepen its collaboration with DIFC and DMCC in Dubai, and work to advance development of tokenized real world assets to bridge traditional finance and digital asset economy.

DAI added. “By working closely with regulators, institutions, and builders, we aim to support the next phase of responsible digital asset adoption across the Middle East, while expanding our presence across the GCC, with Bahrain representing one of the next key milestones for Bybit in the region.”

The company activated comprehensive Business Continuity Protocols (BCP) across its Dubai and Abu Dhabi operations, introducing daily management check-ins, real-time employee safety confirmations, and relocation or travel assistance for staff in sensitive areas.

“Our users in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and across the Gulf need to know one thing: Bybit is open, Bybit is liquid, and Bybit is staffed around the clock,” Derek added. “Your funds are safe. Your access is uninterrupted. We are not going offline, and we are not leaving.”

On March 11th Bybit, announced the launch of AED trading pairs, allowing users to trade supported digital assets directly using AED balances deposited via local UAE bank accounts. The new offering enables eligible users to trade in AED directly without first converting funds into another currency, simplifying access to digital asset markets through a more localized and seamless experience. With this update, AED balances deposited through UAE bank transfers can be used instantly for trading on Bybit.

At launch, the following AED trading pairs will be available, USDT/AED, BTC/AED, ETH/AED, SOL/AED