The broker will offer direct crypto purchases and custody to UAE clients following regulatory clearance from the Capital Market Authority.
Capital.com will introduce spot cryptocurrency trading for clients in the United Arab Emirates after its affiliate, Capital Vault, secured a virtual-asset license from the UAE’s Capital Market Authority. The license permits Capital Vault to act as an agent, matching principal, and custodian for digital assets, enabling UAE users to buy and hold crypto directly through Capital.com’s app.
Previously, Capital.com offered only crypto-based contracts for difference, which provide price exposure without ownership. The new service will operate under a separate regulated entity with independent governance and risk controls. Capital Vault has established an Abu Dhabi office and is assembling a local team to support the launch.
The approval follows the CMA’s expanded virtual-asset regulatory framework introduced in April, which broadened permitted activities and imposed stricter compliance requirements, including anti-money laundering controls and business conduct standards.