United Arab Emirates vs Ukraine
Crypto regulation comparison
United Arab Emirates
Ukraine
The UAE has become a global crypto hub with multiple regulatory frameworks. Dubai's VARA (Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority), established in 2022, is the world's first dedicated crypto regulator and licenses exchanges, brokers, and other VASPs. Abu Dhabi's ADGM regulates crypto through the FSRA. The federal SCA also oversees crypto at the national level. The UAE has no personal income or capital gains tax. Major global exchanges (Binance, Bybit, OKX, Crypto.com) have obtained UAE licenses.
Ukraine passed the 'On Virtual Assets' law in 2022, establishing a legal framework for crypto. The NSSMC is designated as the primary regulator for virtual assets. Crypto gained significance during the Russia-Ukraine war, with Ukraine receiving over $100 million in crypto donations. Tax rules specify 18% income tax plus 1.5% military levy on crypto gains. Full implementation of the regulatory framework has been delayed due to the ongoing conflict.
Key Points
- VARA (Dubai) — world's first standalone virtual asset regulator; comprehensive licensing framework
- ADGM/FSRA (Abu Dhabi) — separate regulatory framework for digital assets in the financial free zone
- No personal income tax or capital gains tax in the UAE
- 9% corporate tax (from 2023) may apply to crypto businesses but not individual investors
- Major exchanges licensed: Binance, Bybit, OKX, Crypto.com, BitOasis
Key Points
- Virtual Assets law passed in 2022, establishing legal status for crypto
- NSSMC designated as primary regulator for virtual assets; NBU handles stablecoins
- 18% personal income tax + 1.5% military levy on crypto gains (19.5% total)
- Over $100M in crypto donations received during Russia-Ukraine war
- Full regulatory implementation delayed due to ongoing conflict