Technology & Cyber regulatory updates from United Arab Emirates.
We track 48 Technology & Cyber updates from United Arab Emirates regulators, published by ADGM and DFSA. The archive covers 33 news items, 6 reports and 3 consultations. Most recent update: November 2026. Coverage runs from 2025 to 2026.
New DFSA AI Survey 2026 findings: AI adoption among DIFC financial services…
Why this matters
The document presents survey findings and statistics on AI adoption, generative AI use, third-party and cloud reliance, governance maturity and AI agent activity among DIFC authorised firms, so it is a report.
The FSRA is aware of the matter relating to Binance exchange on 30 October 2026, concerning a security incident involving unauthorised withdrawals of assets.
Why this matters
The document is an institutional FSRA statement that reports awareness of a security incident involving unauthorised withdrawals at Binance and says the regulator is engaging with the firm and monitoring the situation.
DFSA and C:>DIR publish new paper on cyber resilience implications of frontier…
Why this matters
The document is a published insights paper (research/analysis) rather than a rule, guidance, or speech, so it is classified as a report. It covers AI-enabled cyber risk, agentic systems, operational resilience, and third-party/shared-dependency risk, which are cross-cutting across financial services and therefore...
The Registration Authority (“RA”) of ADGM, the international financial centre (“IFC”) of Abu Dhabi, has published its Guidance on Crypto Mining Activities in and from ADGM (“the Guidance”).
ADGM’s Registration Authority published dedicated Guidance on Crypto Mining Activities in and from ADGM on 28 October 2026. The Guidance classifies commercial crypto mining as a licensable commercial activity under section 23 of the Commercial Licensing Regulations 2025, rather than an FSRA-regulated financial service, creating a dedicated licensing route while signalling that a fuller regulatory framework will follow after further consultation.
Commercial crypto mining conducted in or from ADGM is associated with dedicated RA commercial activity code 7230 and requires the applicable commercial licensing pathway. The Guidance is technology-neutral and covers Proof-of-Work, Proof-of-Stake and future consensus mechanisms. It establishes a pre-application self-assessment to help applicants distinguish mining from FSRA-regulated financial activities, and highlights expectations concerning corporate structure, ultimate beneficial ownership, and confidential disclosure of on-chain addresses used for reward flows.
The immediate impact is material for commercial operators because the activity is placed within an identifiable RA licensing perimeter and subject to governance, ownership transparency, reward-address disclosure and risk-based supervisory expectations. The publication does not state a new application deadline, enforcement date or financial penalty schedule; however, operating without the appropriate commercial licence or crossing into FSRA-regulated activities could create licensing and supervisory exposure, while the planned second-phase framework may introduce further obligations.
AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ADGM source before acting. Full disclaimer.
The DFSA fines Moody’s Investors Service Middle East Limited USD 585,825 for…
The DFSA fined Moody’s Investors Service Middle East Limited USD 585,825 (AED 2,149,977) after identifying seven inadvertent data-disclosure incidents between December 2023 and May 2026, including four disclosures of confidential information to external recipients. The enforcement action demonstrates that DFSA-regulated credit rating agencies are expected to maintain effective preventive and detective controls continuously, including when security tools are withdrawn, and that employee misconduct and disciplinary arrangements form part of the regulator’s assessment.
This is an enforcement action rather than a new rule or prospective regulatory amendment. The DFSA found that MISMEL failed to implement and maintain adequate systems and controls to safeguard confidential information and failed to ensure that employees did not disclose it. The relevant DFSA framework requires a credit rating agency to maintain policies, procedures and controls preventing use of confidential information for unauthorised purposes and disclosure to other persons, subject to limited exceptions such as prior written consent or a legal obligation; COB 8.9.1 also addresses pending...
The action is significant for credit rating agencies because the DFSA treated repeated inadvertent disclosures, deficient preventive and detective controls, and weak employee-discipline processes as failures of the firm’s control framework, not merely isolated employee errors. The USD 836,892 undiscounted penalty and the DFSA’s emphasis on potential harm to market integrity, stability and orderly functioning indicate meaningful financial, supervisory and reputational consequences for confidentiality failures involving market-sensitive information.
AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original DFSA source before acting. Full disclaimer.
Adgm Fsra Invites Industry Feedback On Proposed Defi Risk Management Guidance
ADGM FSRA has issued Consultation Paper No. 5 of 2026 proposing DeFi Risk Management Guidance for Authorised Persons and Recognised Bodies. The proposal does not create a standalone DeFi regime or directly regulate protocols; instead, market commentary indicates that FSRA intends to clarify how existing permissions, governance, risk-management, financial-crime and client-asset expectations apply when regulated entities engage with DeFi.
The proposed Guidance sets supervisory expectations for identifying, assessing, monitoring and managing risks arising from engagement with DeFi protocols and venues. It covers governance and accountability, risk assessments, due diligence, exposure and control measures, ongoing monitoring, financial-crime controls, incident escalation, recordkeeping, auditability, competence and client-asset safeguards. The proposal is guidance under consultation and does not itself introduce binding new rules at this stage.
The immediate impact is supervisory and preparatory rather than the creation of a new binding obligation. Once finalised, the Guidance is likely to increase scrutiny of whether DeFi activity falls within a firm’s existing permissions and whether governance, risk assessment, financial-crime, operational resilience, recordkeeping and client-asset controls are demonstrably adequate; deficiencies could contribute to supervisory action, permission concerns, remediation requirements or restrictions on the activity.
AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original ADGM source before acting. Full disclaimer.
The education arm of Abu Dhabi’s international financial centre, ADGM Academy (“ADGMA”), in collaboration with the ADGM Office of Data Protection (“ODP”), has launched a Certified Data Protection E-Learning Programme designed to enhance privacy awareness and strengthen data protection knowledge across ADGM’s ecosystem.
Why this matters
The update announces ADGM Academy's new Certified Data Protection E-Learning Programme developed with ADGM's Office of Data Protection. While it references the Data Protection Regulations 2021 and emphasizes workforce training as part of compliance, the content is primarily informational and promotional rather than...
ADGM, the international financial centre of Abu Dhabi, delivered strong growth in the first half of 2026, with Assets Under Management rising 54% year on year and its workforce reaching 49,027 professionals.
Why this matters
This is an informational news update from ADGM announcing H1 2026 performance results and regulatory developments. While it contains noteworthy regulatory signals—including new frameworks for crypto mining, virtual asset staking, enhanced AML/sanctions rules, and real estate broker classification—these are presented...
ADGM, the international financial centre of Abu Dhabi, together with its knowledge arm ADGM Academy (ADGMA), has successfully concluded the fifth edition of its Summer Internship Programme, reaffirming its commitment to developing future-ready talent and supporting the UAE and Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision for a…
Why this matters
The content is promotional material from ADGM announcing the successful completion of its fifth Summer Internship Programme for young people. While it mentions emerging technologies (AI, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, InvestmentTech, EnergyTech) and industry partnerships, it contains no regulatory updates, guidance,...
Coinbase Establishes Its Tokenization Hub In Abu Dhabi With Financial Services Permission From The Financial Services Regulatory Authority
Why this matters
Coinbase receives Financial Services Permission from FSRA Abu Dhabi to establish tokenization hub for digital securities. This is regulatory approval news for crypto/blockchain-based capital markets infrastructure, covering licensing authorization and technology-enabled financial services innovation.
ADGM Academy (ADGMA), the knowledge of Abu Dhabi’s international financial centre, has published its 2025 Annual Report, demonstrating its role as a strategic enabler of the human capital aspect within the “Capital of Capital” – Abu Dhabi, strengthening the growth of its knowledge economy.
Why this matters
Informational news update from ADGM announcing Academy's 2025 Annual Report highlighting training achievements, research publications, and strategic partnerships across financial services.
The ADGM Registration Authority (“RA”) has published amendments to its commercial legislation to further strengthen transparency, support compliance with international standards, and enhance the effectiveness of ADGM’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing framework.
Why this matters
ADGM FSRA's 2025 Annual Report announces regulatory performance metrics including 22% increase in Financial Services Permissions and 32% growth in In-Principle Approvals. Highlights focus on innovation support, market integrity, financial crime prevention, and enhanced RegTech/SupTech capabilities.
DFSA Annual Report 2025: the DFSA records third consecutive year of double-digit…
Why this matters
DFSA annual report announcing 2025 performance metrics: 182 new firm authorizations (16% growth), 1,050 total regulated entities, and strategic initiatives including tokenization sandbox (96 expressions of interest), AI adoption (52% of firms), and DFSA Connect platform launch.
Economy Middle East Summit Attracts More Than 1500 Decision Makers From The Public And Private Sectors
Why this matters
This is a news article covering the Economy Middle East Summit held in Abu Dhabi. While it mentions multiple regulatory themes including digital assets, AI, cybersecurity, fintech, and sustainable finance, it is primarily informational/promotional content about the summit rather than a specific regulatory requirement...
Vista Equity Partners Establishes Abu Dhabi Office
Adgms Fsra Issues Alert Concerning Fraudulent Website Tungsten Me.Com And Tgst Me.Com
Adgm Announces Man Groups Commitment To Establish Presence In Abu Dhabi
Ministry of Economy and Tourism, Capital Market Authority, and the DFSA launch…
Capital Group Announces Plans To Open First Office In The Middle East
Uaes Sarwa Hits $1 Billion In Assets As Retail Investing Gains Scale
Adgm Registration Authority Publishes Amendments To The Commercial Legislation
Adgm Announces Rokos Capital Managements Abu Dhabi Office Opening Following Authorisation
Hashed Global Management Limited Hgml Obtains Financial Services Permission From Adgm
Adgm Fsra Launches Consultation On Enhancements To Its Aml Framework
Adgm Fsra Issues Alert Concerning Fraudulent Website Exinityxe
15 Uae Nationals To Join National Talent Development With World Bank Group Explorers Program
ADGM, the international financial centre of Abu Dhabi, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Futian District People's Government of Shenzhen, marking a significant step in strengthening economic and financial cooperation between Abu Dhabi and one of China’s leading financial and innovation hubs.
Why this matters
This regulatory update announces a partnership between ADGM and Futian District in Shenzhen, China, to enhance collaboration across financial services, innovation, and talent development.
Hillhouse Investment Opens New Office In Abu Dhabi
Why this matters
This regulatory update announces that Hillhouse Investment Management, a global private alternative asset manager, has opened a new office in Abu Dhabi and obtained a Category 3C license from the FSRA.
ADGM Courts, the internationally recognised independent courts of ADGM, have announced the appointment of The Right Honourable Lord Patrick Hodge as the new Chief Justice, following the retirement of The Right Honourable Lord David Hope of Craighead KT after an exceptional 11 years.
Why this matters
This regulatory update announces the appointment of a new Chief Justice for the ADGM Courts, which is the independent judicial system for the Abu Dhabi Global Market financial center.
Muzinich Co. Opens Adgm Office To Strengthen Middle East Presence
Why this matters
This regulatory update announces the opening of a new office by Muzinich & Co., a global corporate credit specialist, in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). This expansion into the Middle East region is relevant for investment management firms, banks, and wealth managers operating in the region.
Marking its 10th year of operations, ADGM, Abu Dhabi’s International Financial Centre (IFC), delivered another year of solid growth and strategic milestones, reinforcing its role in advancing Abu Dhabi’s status as the ‘Capital of Capital’.
Why this matters
This regulatory update covers the growth and development of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) financial center, including the licensing of new firms across banking, investment management, and crypto/digital assets.
The DFSA reminds investors to exercise caution and prudence in periods of…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the DFSA is aimed at reminding investors to exercise caution and prudence during periods of heightened global tensions. It covers topics related to consumer protection, operational resilience, and technology/cyber risks, which are relevant for a range of financial services firms including...
ADGM, the international financial centre of Abu Dhabi, today announced the opening of its new Service Centre at The Galleria Al Maryah Island.
Why this matters
This regulatory update announces the opening of a new ADGM Service Centre, which provides in-person services and support for businesses and residents within ADGM's jurisdiction.
iCapital Expands Global Footprint with New Office in the United Arab Emirates
Why this matters
This news article discusses iCapital, an investment management firm, expanding its global footprint by opening a new office in the United Arab Emirates. This relates to topics around authorization, technology, and operational resilience as the firm establishes a presence in a new jurisdiction.
‘Courage’ Takes Centre Stage at RESOLVE 2025 as Experts Tackle Dispute Resolution in a Digital Era
Why this matters
This news article discusses a dispute resolution event focused on the digital transformation of the financial services industry, which is relevant to banking, investment management, and wealth management firms.
J.P. Morgan accelerates growth with full-scale Treasury services in ADGM
Why this matters
This news article discusses J.P. Morgan expanding its treasury services offerings in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), which is relevant for banking, investment management, and wealth management firms operating in that jurisdiction.
USD 9 Trillion in Assets Commit to ADGM as Abu Dhabi Finance Week Redefines Global Capital Flows
Why this matters
This regulatory update discusses the commitment of USD 9 trillion in assets to the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), which is likely to impact banking, investment management, and wealth management firms. It also touches on ESG/sustainability and technology/cyber topics, which are key regulatory focus areas.
ADFW 2025 Delivers its Most Successful Edition, Showcasing Abu Dhabi’s Next Decade of Growth with Over 35,000 Attendees
Why this matters
This news article discusses the successful edition of the ADFW 2025 event in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the emirate's growth plans for the next decade. The event is likely to be of interest to firms in the banking, investment management, and wealth management sectors, as well as fintechs, as it highlights the regulatory...
ADGM’s Registration Authority Reshapes Services in the Real Estate Sector
Why this matters
This news update from ADGM's Registration Authority discusses changes to real estate sector services, which impacts banking, investment management, and wealth management firms operating in that space. The key topics covered are licensing, operational resilience, and technology/cyber considerations.
Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW) 2025, opened today with some of the world’s most influential financial and business leaders engaging in critical discourse around the capital’s evolving economic landscape and strategic role on the world stage.
Why this matters
This regulatory update covers a range of topics relevant to the banking, investment management, and capital markets sectors, including AML/financial crime, prudential requirements, and technology/cyber risks.
26 NOV 2025, 03:15 PM DFSA and HKMA co-host second Joint Climate Finance Conference, showcasing…
Why this matters
This regulatory update discusses a joint climate finance conference hosted by the DFSA and HKMA, focusing on financial risks from climate change, innovative sustainable finance solutions, and the role of sustainable debt in emerging markets.
19 NOV 2025, 02:00 PM DFSA hosts 2025 Annual Outreach for over 500 industry leaders – addressing…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the DFSA covers key supervision priorities and compliance expectations across the banking, capital markets, and wealth management sectors in the Dubai International Financial Centre.
12 NOV 2025, 10:00 AM New DFSA AI survey: Generative AI adoption has nearly tripled within the DIFC in…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the DFSA highlights a rapid acceleration in AI adoption among financial firms in the Dubai International Financial Centre, with a particular focus on the growth of Generative AI. The update indicates that over 50% of firms are now actively using AI, up from 33% the previous year.
21 OCT 2025, 09:33 AM The DFSA publishes summary of Consultation Paper 168 – Enhancements to the…
Why this matters
The regulatory update from the DFSA outlines proposed enhancements to the regulatory framework for crypto tokens, which is relevant for crypto exchanges and fintech firms operating in the Dubai International Financial Centre.
20 OCT 2025, 10:00 AM Dubai advances position as Middle East, Africa and South Asia’s leading global…
Why this matters
The regulatory update highlights Dubai's continued growth as a leading global financial center, with significant expansion in the number of registered companies, regulated entities, and banking assets under management.
13 OCT 2025, 09:43 AM DFSA Connect: new digital services streamline regulatory approvals processes,…
Why this matters
This regulatory update from the DFSA announces the launch of a new digital platform called DFSA Connect, which is designed to streamline the application and approval processes for firms seeking authorization to conduct financial services in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
09 OCT 2025, 12:00 PM DFSA and HKMA to co-host second Climate Finance Conference to strengthen…
Why this matters
The regulatory update is an informational announcement about a conference on climate finance, with no specific regulatory changes or requirements mentioned. It is therefore classified as informational content with low urgency.
30 JUN 2025, 03:18 PM New DFSA report explores regulatory insights into cybersecurity, Artificial…
Why this matters
The report explores regulatory insights into cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence, which affects banks, fintechs, and asset managers. It is an informational content, hence the urgency is set to null.