Dubai’s regulator VARA warns against MKAN Coin

Dubai’s regulator VARA warns against MKAN Coin

Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has issued an alert regarding MKAN Coin, which operates as a crypto trading exchange, based out of DMCC. The coin which uses the domain www.mkancoin.com has been advertising virtual asset activities accessible within the UAE but with no regulatory approval.

VARA has instructed MKAN Coin to cease all marketing activities and has issued a fine.

According to the crypto regulator, engaging with unlicensed platforms exposes users to significant financial risk and potential legal consequences for violating regulatory requirements. The regulator notes that in accordance with Dubai Law No. (4) of 2022 and Cabinet Resolution No. 111/2022, all virtual asset service providers must be licensed to operate legally in this jurisdiction. MKAN Coin does not meet these legal requirements and is not authorized to provide any virtual asset services in/from the Emirate of Dubai.

Furthermore VARA advised consumers and investors in the UAE to avoid using MKAN Coin, and to exercise caution when considering interactions with unregulated platforms. Users should be aware that access to the MKAN Coin website has been suspended voluntarily, and it is recommended to take immediate necessary measures to ensure protection of user assets.

This is not the first time that Dubai’s regulator has warned against unregulated VASP activities. In April 2023, VARA issued an alert and warning with regards to virtual asset exchange OPNX (opnx.com) which launched on April 4th 2023.

Then in October 2023, it warned investors and market participants of the unauthorized issuance, marketing, and retail distribution of Islamic Coin (ISLM) from Bored Gen (BG) DMCC based out of Dubai UAE.

Most recently in December 2024, the regulator issued alerts for seven crypto entities claiming to be registered and licensed in Dubai. The entities include, Koto Crypto, Finchain, Crypto Force, Coin Cashy, BTC Bay, XT, and Stabit.

Bahrain and Malaysia to cooperate on crypto sandbox

Bahrain and Malaysia to cooperate on crypto sandbox

In a recent official visit by Malaysia’s Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar to Bahrain where he met with Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and Economy Shaikh Salman Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa to Malaysia, discussions on cooperating when it comes to cryptocurrencies and fintech were revealed.

As per Malaysia’s Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar both Malaysia and Bahrain are committed to strengthening their economies including areas related to cryptocurrencies and a potential sandbox platform.

“In addition, we also discussed cooperation in tourism, the connectivity between Kuala Lumpur and Manama, as well as in the manufacturing sector,” he said in a statement today.

Anwar said that Bahrain had also expressed its commitment to the success of the Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and the Asean-GCC+China Summit, which will be attended by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Sheikh Salman Hamad al-Khalifa.

Malaysia discussed crypto regulatory frameworks with Binance and UAE as well

Earlier in January 2025, Malaysia’s Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim met with Binance founder Changpeng Zhao and UAE officials to discuss potential crypto regulatory frameworks. The discussions, which took place during Anwar’s three-day official visit to Abu Dhabi, centered on establishing policies that could recognize the crypto industry and modernize Malaysia’s financial system.

As noted at the time, Ibrahim stated, “I had lengthy discussions with the Abu Dhabi leadership and Changpeng Zhao, co-founder of the world’s largest cryptocurrency platform, Binance,” Anwar said, adding that he has urged the central bank and Treasury to study digital finance to avoid being left behind and protect the public interest.”

UAE policymakers expressed willingness to collaborate with Malaysia in developing its crypto regulatory approach.

Bahrain one of leading crypto regulated MENA countries

Bahrain was one of the first countries in the Middle East and Gulf to regulate cryptocurrencies through its Central Bank. It also launched a crypto sandbox and has since licensed several crypto exchanges including Binance, Crypto.com, CoinMENA, RAIN, BitOasis and others.

It is currently working on its stablecoin regulations as well as researching CBDC implementations.

Crypto Regulations in Malaysia need further development

Malaysia considers crypto as securities and are traded as such in the country, however The Central Bank of Malaysia Act establishes the ringgit as the country’s sole legal tender, effectively excluding cryptocurrencies from this status. Oversight of cryptocurrencies is shared between Bank Negara Malaysia and the Securities Commission. The central bank handles general crypto matters, while the securities regulator regulates digital currencies classified as securities.

Yet their crypto regulations still lack transparency and consistency.

There have been calls from within the government to adopt a more progressive stance towards cryptocurrencies. In March 2022, Zahidi Zainul Abidin, the deputy minister of the Communications and Multimedia Ministry, suggested that Malaysia should adopt bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as legal tender. “We hope the government can allow this,” Zahidi said in Parliament, according to Bloomberg.

Additionally, religious authorities in Malaysia, such as the Shariah Advisory Council of the Securities Commission, have recognized digital currencies as a form of property from an Islamic perspective, further legitimizing their use within the country’s predominantly Muslim society, according to a study published in the Journal of Fatwa and Falak Selangor.

Still Malaysia faces one major issue with crypto and that is illegal crypto mining. stimates from the Deputy Energy Minister put the cost of this illegal activity at roughly $723 million in stolen electricity between 2018 and 2023.

UAE Haifin offers blockchain trade finance solution in Bahrain with BENEFIT

UAE Haifin offers blockchain trade finance solution in Bahrain with BENEFIT

Bahrain based BENEFIT, aFintech and electronic financial transactions service, has partnered with haifin, an e& enterprise company (part of e&) formerly known as UAE Trade Connect offering Blockchain enabled trade financing platform,to revolutionize Bahrain’s banking sector by fostering innovation, and enhancing financial resilience across the industry.

With a proven track record in de-risking trade finance lending, haifin—live in UAE since 2021—has leveraged cutting-edge technologies such as blockchain and advanced analytics to prevent fraud in real-time, saving over $150 million for its consortium members.

As per the press release, the partnership is set to enhance the ability of Bahrain’s banking industry to mitigate risks and prevent fraud, particularly in trade finance. By improving risk management, the collaboration is expected to boost banks’ lending confidence, increase revenues, and improve access to liquidity for SMEs and corporate borrowers.

Abdulwahed AlJanahi, Chief Executive of BENEFIT, commented that this partnership marks a significant step in strengthening Bahrain’s financial ecosystem through advanced technology. He added, “By equipping banks with cutting-edge tools to proactively combat fraud and streamline trade finance, we are empowering the sector to operate with unparalleled efficiency and confidence. By uniting our expertise, we are reinforcing trust, security, and innovation at the heart of the industry’s future, setting the stage for a more resilient and digitally advanced banking landscape in Bahrain.”

Zul Javaid, Chief Executive of haifin, highlighted the importance of this partnership added, “After our success in the UAE and our ambition to address similar challenges across the MEA region this collaboration with BENEFIT marks a major milestone. Together, we aim to deliver advanced technology solutions that enhance risk management which ultimately drives growth for banks.”

The members of Haifin platform include UAE Banks Federation, Al Masraf, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Commercial Bank International, Commercial Bank of Dubai, Dubai Islamic Bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Habib Bank AG Zurich, Invest Bank, Mashreq Corporate & Investment Banking Group, National Bank of Fujairah, RAKBANK, Sharjah Islamic Bank, United Arab Bank, Beehive Fintech, CredibleX, DP World, and Finneva.

Prior to the recent agreement with Bahrain’s BENEFIT, Zul Javaid expressed his interest in expanding Haifan offering to countries across the GCC and MENA regions, including KSA hiring Wissam Massud to lead their international expansion in 2023.

Mantra Finance secures first DeFi license in UAE

Mantra Finance secures first DeFi license in UAE

Mantra Finance a decentralized Finance platform operated by MANTRA Group, has secured the first DeFi license from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulator Authority (VARA).

Mantra Finance with the license will be able to operate as a Virtual Asset Exchange, as well as offer crypto broker dealer and management investment services.

As per the press release, this is significant milestone in MANTRA’s commitment to regulatory compliance, security, and innovation within the rapidly growing virtual assets ecosystem. The VARA license will support not just MANTRA’s global footprint as it introduces a range of innovative, regulatory-compliant financial products tailored to the evolving needs of investors around the world, but position it to further scale operations in the Middle East focused on the tokenization of real world assets (RWAs).

“By establishing the most timely, comprehensive and built from-the-ground-up framework for virtual assets and Web3, Dubai and VARA have become world leaders in crypto regulation. This license was a crucial step for MANTRA and a key step in our journey towards global expansion,” said John Patrick Mullin, CEO of MANTRA.

“The UAE and broader MENA region has fast become a progressive global hub and thriving ecosystem for Web3 and virtual assets owing to their regulatory initiatives and frameworks. This license not only strengthens our presence regionally, it positions us internationally to deliver unique DeFi products that bridge the gap between decentralized finance and traditional finance. Our goal is to build a future-focused financial ecosystem that benefits institutional and qualified investors globally.”

“By obtaining this license, MANTRA joins a growing community of regulated entities operating within the UAE, and we are excited to work alongside industry leaders to shape the future of virtual assets,” added Mullin. “Our regulatory compliance is fundamental to the trust we build with users, and it reflects our long-term vision of driving responsible growth in the digital asset space.”

As the platform continues to innovate, MANTRA will launch a variety of unique DeFi products designed to meet the dynamic needs of investors. Each product is developed with strict adherence to local regulations and international policy frameworks, ensuring that users benefit from both security and cutting-edge financial tools.

Mantra raised $11 million from Shorooq Partners in UAE

MANTRA Chain a Layer 1 blockchain for real world tokenization, raised $11 million led by UAE based Shorooq Partners with investors including Three-point capital, Forte Securities, VirtuZone, Hex Trust and GameFi Ventures. The news which was published in Coindesk stated, that Mantra Chain was in the final stages of receiving licenses from Dubai’s crypto regulator, VARA.

Mantra is already posed for success with its recent agreement with DAMAC Group to tokenize $1 billion worth of assets. In addition it has also signed an agreement to tokenize assets worth half a billion dollars with MAG Group.

Qatar Investment Authority funds Rasmal Ventures

Qatar Investment Authority funds Rasmal Ventures

Qatar Investment Authority has funded Rasmal Ventures LLC as part of its Fund of Funds Program. The funding is received into Rasmal Venture’s inaugural, home-grown venture capital fund, Rasmal Innovation Fund I LLC, which targets high-performance startups and scales up across a variety of innovative technology sectors, including fintech, B2B SaaS, HealthTech and AI.

Rasmal Innovation Fund I LLC is the first fund announcement as part of QIA’s $1 billion Fund of Funds program announced as open to applicants in February 2024.

To date, the Rasmal Innovation Fund I LLC has closed funding from QIA’s Fund of Funds, corporates, family offices and individual high-net-worth investors with an aim to reach $100 million in investment commitments. The fund is only open to professional investors as defined in QFCRA regulation.

Alexander Wiedmer, Co-Managing Partner of Rasmal Ventures, said, “As the first private VC fund based in Doha, we have forged strong partnerships with leading Qatari institutions to work closely with exceptional founders, stimulate innovation, and meet the region’s unique needs. While still in the early stages of capital deployment, we take pride in our first investments in proprietary tech startups. The trust QIA and our other investors placed in us is a testament to our team’s capabilities and dedication. We will continue to grow our presence across the region and execute our highly selective investment strategy to establish ourselves as a key player in the MENA VC landscape.”

Tokinvest and HKVAX crypto exchange partner for tokenized investments

Tokinvest and HKVAX crypto exchange partner for tokenized investments

UAE regulated, Tokinvest, real-world asset tokenization marketplace, and HKVAX, a crypto asset trading platform, have partnered to transform the global digital asset markets by linking Hong Kong’s established financial infrastructure with Dubai’s rapidly expanding virtual asset ecosystem. The alliance seeks to pave the way for a new era of tokenized investments.

By bringing together HKVAX’s SFC-regulated platform in Hong Kong and Tokinvest’s VARA-licensed broker-dealer operations in Dubai, this collaboration establishes a cross-regional tokenization corridor. The alliance will enable seamless token offerings, asset structuring, and secondary market trading, providing institutional investors with greater market accessibility while ensuring regulatory compliance across jurisdictions.

The partnership is set to drive cross-border liquidity, enhance market efficiency, and unlock new investment opportunities in tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), such as real estate, private equity, and alternative assets. In an industry that is still in its early stages, this strategic collaboration marks a significant step towards mainstream adoption of regulated digital asset markets.

“This strategic bridge between Hong Kong and Dubai represents more than just a partnership – it’s a gateway to seamless digital asset flows between two of Asia’s most dynamic financial centers.” said Sam Fok, Co-founder and COO of HKVAX. “Through our collaboration with Tokinvest, we’re creating new pathways for institutional investors while upholding the highest regulatory standards in both markets.”

Scott Thiel, CEO of Tokinvest, added, “Tokenisation is the future of finance, but to reach its full potential, we need strong regulatory frameworks and seamless market connectivity. This partnership with HKVAX creates a vital link between two global financial powerhouses, enabling investors to access previously untapped opportunities with greater security, liquidity, and efficiency. The future of real-world asset tokenisation is borderless, and this is just the beginning.”

UAE based Brevan Howard Digital deploys $20 million of assets on Kinto DeFi L2 platform

UAE based Brevan Howard Digital deploys $20 million of assets on Kinto DeFi L2 platform

The UAE branch of Brevan Howard Digital has deployed $20M in assets on Kinto, a Blockchain DeFi financial portal which rewards active participants such as traditional financial entities who deposit assets on-chain with token emissions.

As per the press release, Kinto enables financial institutions to deploy capital on-chain while meeting their strict legal and compliance requirements. Kinto is the only L2 that has native KYC and AML at the blockchain level, default wallet insurance and extensive security features.

Kinto’s mining program rewards active participants who deposit assets on-chain with token emissions. The mining program will be active for 10 years, with rewards decreasing over time. Brevan Howard Digital, through its Abu Dhabi branch, became one of the first major traditional financial firms to leverage its digital assets to participate in Kinto’s mining program.

Kinto’s CEO and co-founder, Ramon Recuero, believes that digital asset management platforms like Brevan Howard Digital are ahead of the curve and that participation in on-chain in programs like Kinto’s mining program will steadily increase. He expects similar institutions to become more prominent within the ecosystem over the coming months: “Institutions have been waiting for two things: regulatory clarity and compliance features. Now, through Kinto, financial institutions don’t need to wait any longer.”

Regulated crypto exchanges and wallets can advertise on google targeting UAE

Regulated crypto exchanges and wallets can advertise on google targeting UAE

Google announced that it has updated the cryptocurrencies and related products policy to clarify the scope and requirements for the advertisement of complex speculative financial products specifically in UAE. The company is allowing regulated crypto exchange and wallets to target UAE customers.

As per Google, starting February 26, 2025, advertisers offering cryptocurrency exchanges and software wallets targeting the United Arab Emirates may advertise those products and services when they meet the following requirements and are certified by Google.

The requirements are that cryptocurrency exchanges and crypto wallets targeting UAE users will need to be licensed by either the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) out of ADGM in Abu Dhabi, Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA), or the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) out of DIFC. It adds that any other local legal requirements must also be complied with.

Interestingly crypto exchanges or crypto wallets license out of RAK DAO were not mentioned.

In the announcement Google notes, “As a reminder, we expect all advertisers to comply with the local laws for any area that their ads target. This policy will apply globally to all accounts that advertise these financial products.”

If advertisers violate the policy their accounts will be suspended without prior warning. A warning will be issued, at least 7 days, before any suspension of account.

This means that crypto exchanges such as Binance, OKX, CoinMENA, BitOasis, Crypto.com, M2 and others will be able to start advertising campaigns on Google targeting the UAE users. It also means that crypto wallets such as HexTrust, BackPack, Liminal, Komainu and others will also be able to.

Saudi Ministry of IT partners with Blockchain accelerator Adaverse

Saudi Ministry of IT partners with Blockchain accelerator Adaverse

Adaverse, Venture Fund and Cardano Blockchain accelerator has partnered The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.

As per the press release, the partnership aims to accelerate the development of Web 3 technologies and promote innovation in blockchains in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This collaboration will leverage the Ministry’s leadership in national digital transformation and Adaverse’s expertise in blockchain investments and technology infrastructure. It aims to equip local talent with access to the latest global advancements in this field.

Vincent Li, CEO of Adaverse Saudi Arabia, stated, “We take pride in contributing to Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation by sharing our global expertise and resources. This partnership will help build a strong Web3 community in the Kingdom and drive innovation in blockchain technology.”

The partnership will include training and awareness programs to help local talent gain expertise in Web3 and Blockchain. It will also foster innovation with community meetups and hackathons and provide access to cutting edge technologies to support KSA’s tech ecosystem.

Additionally Adaverse will work with the Minsitry to establish startup accelerators in Web3 sector.

This announcement coincides with the new Web3 alliance that has been formed in KSA . Animoca Brands, SandBox, and Outlier Ventures announced that they have united key Blockchain and digital innovation players towards to goal of driving adoption and Web3 technologies aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

A new Web3 Alliance is formed in KSA

A new Web3 Alliance is formed in KSA

A new Web3 alliance has been formed in KSA . Animoca Brands, SandBox, and Outlier Ventures announced that they have united key Blockchain and digital innovation players towards to goal of driving adoption and Web3 technologies aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

The non-profit association aims to create a collaborative ecosystem that empowers businesses and drives sustainable growth within Saudi Arabia by building on their previous initiatives and investments to advance the region’s digital landscape.

The alliance’s board is composed of industry leaders and experts based in Saudi Arabia, actively driving the Kingdom’s digital transformation. Supported by both international and local companies, these experts – including Dr. Abeer Al Humaimeedy, Yasser Alobaidan, Omar Elassar, Dr. Majid Almansouri, Wajd Badawi, Billal Yamak, Vincent Li, Bandar Altunisi, Ali Alasiri, and Stephan Apel – are deeply engaged in advancing innovation within the country.

“The Web3 Alliance of Saudi Arabia represents a crucial step forward in realizing the Kingdom’s vision for a digital future,” said Billal Yamak. “By bringing together expertise from both local and international leaders in the blockchain space, we’re creating a powerful platform for innovation and growth.”

On LinkedIn Bandar AlTunisi a Former Binance executive in MENA, stated, “Extremely excited to be a founding Board Member of the newly launched Web3 Alliance of Saudi Arabia (WASA)! WASA aims to accelerate the adoption and integration of blockchain technology and Web3 innovations in the Kingdom, through education, awareness, collaboration and policy support.”

The alliance will focus on four key pillars which include awareness and education, standards and best practice development, as well as research and development including networking and collaboration opportunities.

WASA will serve as the primary advocate for Web3 technology in the region, working independently to promote innovation rather than individual companies or entities.

The alliance’s governance structure includes a General Assembly and an Executive Committee, ensuring transparent and effective leadership. A comprehensive digital infrastructure and marketing strategy will support the alliance’s mission to connect and empower the Web3 community throughout Saudi Arabia.

Web3 enthusiasts, corporations, and industry leaders are invited to join the alliance and have a say in shaping the future of the Web3 ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.

NEOM and Outlier Ventures launched Web3 accelerator

In January of 2025, Neom, Saudi Arabia’s futuristic city being built on the shores of the Red Sea partnered with Saudi Arabian NTDP ( National Technology Development Program) and Outlier Ventures, a global Web3 accelerator, to launch the first Web3 accelerator and the FutureSpark Base Camp Demo Day.

Naif Abu Saida, Director of Web3 at Neom stated in a LinkedIn post, ” The future is here, and it’s powered by Web3. Since the beginning of our Web3 journey at NEOM, we’ve been working tirelessly to bring innovation to the forefront, and today, we’re proud to unveil the Kingdom’s first Web3 accelerator!”