Setting up a cryptocurrency business in Dubai has become increasingly popular due to the clear regulations introduced by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Established in 2022, VARA oversees virtual asset services in Dubai and helps maintain transparency, security, and compliance in this fast-changing sector.

If you’re planning to start or operate a crypto-related business in Dubai in 2025, registering with VARA is essential. To make the registration process smooth and efficient, you must prepare and submit the correct documents.

This article outlines the seven key documents every crypto business needs for VARA registration in 2025. Understanding and organizing these documents early can save you time, reduce back-and-forth with the regulator, and help you meet all legal requirements.

1. Business Plan

A well-written business plan is one of the first documents VARA will require. It helps the authority understand the purpose of your company, the services you offer, and how you intend to operate within Dubai’s legal framework.

What to include:

• Company mission and vision
  
  

• Description of virtual asset services (e.g., trading, custody, wallet services)
  
  

• Target customers and markets
  
  

• Business model and revenue sources
  
  

• Operational structure
  
  

• Risk management strategies
  
  

• Technology stack and system architecture
  
  

• Project roadmap and timelines
  
  

Your business plan should be clear, detailed, and realistic. Avoid overly technical language unless needed. VARA wants to see that your company is serious, responsible, and prepared.

2. Corporate Structure Document

VARA needs a clear view of your corporate structure, including ownership, management, and any related entities.

What to include:

• Organizational chart
  
  

• Names and roles of directors, shareholders, and senior management
  
  

• Percentage of ownership for each shareholder
  
  

• Description of any parent or subsidiary companies
  
  

• Country of incorporation and business licenses
  
  

This document helps VARA assess who controls the business and whether those individuals meet the required standards for running a virtual asset service provider in Dubai.

3. Compliance Policy

A detailed compliance policy is critical. VARA pays close attention to how crypto businesses plan to follow local and international laws, especially those related to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorist Financing (CTF).

What to include:

• Internal procedures for AML/CTF
  
  

• Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures and customer due diligence (CDD)

• Transaction monitoring systems
  
  

• Reporting obligations
  
  

• Staff training programs
  
  

• Role of the Compliance Officer
  
  

Your compliance policy should be practical and suitable for your business size. If you’re using external compliance tools or service providers, mention them in the document.

4. Information Security Policy

Since crypto businesses handle sensitive financial and personal data, VARA requires an Information Security Policy to make sure customer data and digital assets are protected.

What to include:

• Data protection measures
  
  

• Access controls and user privileges
  
  

• Encryption and cybersecurity protocols
  
  

• Regular audits and monitoring procedures
  
  

• Disaster recovery and incident response plans
  
  

This document should also explain how your company will handle any security breaches and what systems are in place to prevent unauthorized access.

5. Tokenomics or Asset Description (if applicable)

If your business involves issuing tokens, cryptocurrencies, or other digital assets, you must provide a Tokenomics or Asset Description document.

What to include:

• Purpose of the token or digital asset
  
  

• Token supply, distribution, and allocation plan
  
  

• Utility of the token (if any)
  
  

• Blockchain or platform being used
  
  

• Technical details (smart contracts, consensus mechanisms, etc.)
  
  

• Legal classification of the asset (e.g., utility, payment, or security token)
  
  

This document helps VARA understand how your digital assets work and whether they pose any risks to users or the financial system.

6. Proof of Local Presence

To operate under VARA, your company must have a local presence in Dubai. This is a legal requirement.

What to include:

• Trade license issued by a Dubai Free Zone (e.g., Dubai World Trade Centre or Dubai International Financial Centre)
  
  

• Office lease or virtual office agreement
  
  

• Contact details of your local representative or branch manager
  
  

VARA uses this document to verify that your business is legally established in Dubai and subject to UAE laws.

7. Financial Forecasts and Capital Proof

Crypto businesses must show that they have enough capital to support their operations. VARA wants to ensure your company can cover operating costs and meet customer obligations.

What to include:

• Financial forecasts for the next 3–5 years
  
  

• Profit and loss projections
  
  

• Cash flow statements
  
  

• Balance sheet
  
  

• Bank statements or funding letters
  
  

• Details of any investors or capital sources
  
  

Make sure these documents are realistic and supported by data. VARA may ask for more details if figures seem unclear or overly optimistic.

Bonus Tip: Use a Document Checklist

Before submitting your VARA registration, it’s helpful to create a checklist to ensure that all documents are complete and properly formatted. Some documents may require certified translations if they are not in English.

Also, keep digital and printed copies of each document. VARA’s registration portal may require uploads in specific file formats (usually PDF), and hard copies may be requested later during inspections or follow-ups.

Final Thoughts

Registering with VARA in 2025 can open the door to many opportunities for your crypto business in Dubai. However, the registration process is strict, and proper documentation is key to avoiding delays or rejections.

The seven documents listed in this article—Business Plan, Corporate Structure Document, Compliance Policy, Information Security Policy, Tokenomics or Asset Description, Proof of Local Presence, and Financial Forecasts—are the foundation of your VARA application.

Each one plays a role in showing that your company is responsible, well-prepared, and committed to meeting Dubai’s regulatory standards.

Getting these documents ready may take some time, but doing it right from the start can help your business operate confidently in one of the world’s most forward-thinking crypto markets.