OKX becomes first global exchange to offer regulated crypto derivatives in UAE

OKX has secured a first-mover advantage in the Middle East by becoming the first global cryptocurrency exchange to offer regulated crypto derivatives to retail investors in the United Arab Emirates. This milestone, achieved under the oversight of the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), puts the spotlight on the UAE’s evolving regulatory landscape and its strategic push to attract global digital asset firms. Retail users can now access futures, perpetuals, and options trading with up to 5x leverage—marking a pivotal step in the region’s ambition to establish itself as a global crypto trading hub. OKX MENA @OKXmena · Follow تنبيه لجميع المتداولين في 🇦🇪تداول المشتقات أصبح متاح لجميع المتداولين بشكل مرخص على #OKX !يمكنكم الآن تداول العقود الآجلة الدائمة والمنتهية وعقود الخيارات مع رافعة مالية تصل إلى 5x!قم بإحالة أصدقاءك وابدا تداول المشتقات بالطريقة الصحيحة: okx.com/ar-ae/landingp… Watch on Twitter View replies 7:06 PM · Jul 28, 2025 13 Reply Copy link Read 4 replies OKX launches regulated crypto derivatives in Dubai The approval comes as part of VARA’s pilot programme, which allows a select group of exchanges to introduce sophisticated financial products under strict compliance frameworks. OKX’s latest launch introduces retail access to crypto derivatives—previously restricted to institutional or professional traders in most markets—enabling everyday users to hedge positions or amplify gains using futures contracts, perpetuals, and options. OKX’s entry into the derivatives space in the UAE follows its ongoing regional expansion and regulatory approvals. The firm has been working closely with VARA and other local partners to ensure compliance with Dubai’s digital asset regulations. The offering is available on both the OKX app and website for verified retail traders in the UAE, providing tools previously limited to more mature jurisdictions. UAE crypto regulation sees rapid evolution Dubai and Abu Dhabi are among the few jurisdictions offering a structured and proactive approach to digital asset regulation. The UAE’s framework is designed to strike a balance between innovation and investor protection, making it a competitive destination for crypto businesses that require clarity and flexibility. Under VARA, crypto firms are expected to operate within tiered licensing models, with specific provisions for each product class. OKX’s authorisation to offer derivatives to retail investors signifies confidence in the exchange’s internal safeguards, liquidity provisions, and risk management systems. This move comes amid broader efforts by the UAE to lead in Web3 policy innovation. The government has launched multiple initiatives to attract crypto companies, including free-zone operations, local talent upskilling programmes, and Arabic-language platform support. OKX expands retail offering, targets education OKX’s derivatives launch also includes built-in risk controls and educational materials tailored for retail users. The platform now features enhanced support for Arabic-speaking users, in-app guidance on derivatives trading, and portfolio risk tools to help users navigate complex products more responsibly. This aligns with VARA’s requirements to ensure users are equipped to understand and manage the risks associated with leveraged trading. The exchange is expected to continue expanding its feature set and educational tools in the region, as part of its commitment to fostering responsible participation in digital asset markets. Crypto trading infrastructure strengthens in the Gulf The UAE’s willingness to open regulated derivatives trading to non-institutional participants contrasts with stricter approaches taken in the UK and the US, where similar products remain largely off-limits to retail traders. This distinction gives Dubai and Abu Dhabi a competitive edge in attracting trading platforms and users seeking regulated exposure to advanced crypto instruments. By bringing regulated crypto derivatives to market, OKX signals confidence in the region’s long-term viability as a digital asset hub. The launch marks a critical inflection point in the UAE’s broader strategy to integrate blockchain innovation with capital markets infrastructure. The post OKX becomes first global exchange to offer regulated crypto derivatives in UAE appeared first on Invezz

Source: Invezz