- Animoca Brands gains VARA license for Middle East expansion
- Dubai approval enables institutional crypto services growth
- Regulated push strengthens Animoca’s regional digital asset strategy
Animoca Brands has secured a Virtual Asset Service Provider license from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, according to a Monday announcement. The approval allows the Hong Kong-founded Web3 investor to expand regulated digital asset services across the Middle East. The license marks a significant step in the company’s regional growth strategy.
According to VARA’s public register, the license was issued on Feb. 5, which permits Animoca Brands to offer broker-dealer services and investment management linked to virtual assets. However, the authorization excludes operations within the Dubai International Financial Centre. The company will primarily target institutional and qualified investors under VARA supervision.
Omar Elassar, managing director for the Middle East and head of global strategic partnerships, addressed the development. According to Elassar, the license strengthens engagement with Web3 foundations and global institutional investors. He noted that Dubai provides a regulated environment that supports structured digital asset activity.
Also Read: Bitcoin, XRP, and SOL Slide as Altcoins Suddenly Explode Higher
Institutional Expansion Anchors Regional Strategy
Animoca Brands develops blockchain platforms and supports multiple Web3 ecosystems. Its portfolio includes The Sandbox, Open Campus, and Moca Network. Additionally, the company reports investments in more than 600 companies and digital asset initiatives. Earlier in January, Animoca Brands acquired gaming and digital collectibles company Somo.
The acquisition integrated Somo’s playable and tradable collectibles into its blockchain portfolio. Moreover, the move reinforced the company’s broader push into tokenized entertainment and digital ownership models.
Dubai continues to attract regulated crypto firms seeking structured oversight. In October 2025, digital asset infrastructure provider BitGo secured a broker-dealer license from VARA. That approval allowed BitGo’s regional arm to provide trading and intermediation services to institutional clients.
Significantly, VARA has increased enforcement across the sector. The regulator recently imposed financial penalties on 19 firms for unlicensed virtual asset activities. Authorities also cited breaches of marketing regulations in those actions. Consequently, firms operating in Dubai must meet strict compliance standards.
Animoca Brands’ new license positions the company within this tightening regulatory framework. Besides strengthening its Middle East presence, the approval supports its institutionally focused growth strategy.
The development aligns directly with its plan to expand regulated operations in Dubai and the broader region. Animoca Brands’ VARA VASP license underscores its expansion into the Middle East’s regulated digital asset market. The approval enhances its ability to serve institutional investors while reinforcing Dubai’s role as a supervised crypto hub.
Also Read: Chainlink (LINK) Price Prediction 2026–2030: Can LINK Reclaim $15.00 Soon?
