Bitpanda Enters UAE with VARA License
Vienna-based crypto investment platform Bitpanda has officially expanded into the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after securing a Broker-Dealer license from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). This license marks Bitpanda’s first fully licensed venture outside of Europe, further solidifying its global presence in regulated digital finance.
With over six million users, Bitpanda now brings its full suite of virtual asset offerings to the UAE market, including access to more than 500 cryptocurrencies, crypto indices, and savings plans.
Why the UAE Was the Next Move
Bitpanda chose the UAE for its expansion due to the country’s progressive stance on digital asset regulation. Dubai has quickly emerged as a key global hub for crypto and blockchain innovation, offering a supportive yet secure environment for investors and fintech firms alike.
VARA’s clear regulatory guidelines strike a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding investor interests—a perfect fit for Bitpanda’s focus on transparency, security, and compliance.
Lukas Enzersdorfer-Konrad, Deputy CEO at Bitpanda Group, emphasized this alignment: “With our VARA license, we are bringing that vision to the UAE, ensuring investors and financial institutions have access to a fully compliant digital asset platform.”
Setting Up Shop in Dubai
To support its new operations, Bitpanda has opened a permanent office at the DMCC Crypto Centre in Dubai. The company has also assembled a dedicated team of regional experts to customize its offerings for the UAE market.
UAE investors will soon be able to onboard with Bitpanda, gaining access to its full digital asset ecosystem.
Bitpanda’s Global Compliance Footprint
Bitpanda’s move into the UAE builds on its strong regulatory foundation in Europe. The platform already holds several key licenses, including:
- A MiCAR license from Germany’s BaFin
- Registration with the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
These credentials have helped Bitpanda become a go-to platform for secure, compliant crypto investing across Europe—and now the Middle East.
As the UAE continues to draw top fintech players, Bitpanda’s entry is expected to boost the region’s digital asset landscape, offering a trustworthy option for investors seeking regulated exposure to crypto.
