Animoca Brands, known for building and investing in web3 and digital asset technologies, has received a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) licence from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) that permits the company to operate crypto brokerage and asset management services in the emirate, according to a Monday announcement.
With this license, Animoca Brands can provide virtual asset broker-dealer services and management and investment services in and from Dubai, excluding the Dubai International Financial Centre, for global institutional and qualified investors.
Established in 2022, VARA is the first independent regulator for virtual assets, overseeing digital asset activities in Dubai, setting governance standards, and supporting investor protection and a borderless economy.
Animoca Brands opened a Dubai office in 2025 to deepen ties with regional partners and expand its web3 investment activities. In October 2025, the firm received in‑principle approval from VARA in October 2025, and the final license completes a two-stage regulatory review process.
“Receiving the VASP licence from VARA is an important milestone for Animoca Brands’ operations, particularly in Dubai and the Middle East,” said Omar Elassar, managing director for the Middle East at the company.
Animoca Brands maintains a portfolio exceeding 600 companies and digital assets, with holdings spanning platforms such as the Moca Network and Open Campus.
