Binance
Unmatched liquidity and coin selection. The go-to exchange for active crypto traders despite ongoing regulatory complexity in some jurisdictions.
Cold StorageProof of ReservesStakingDeFi Access
4.4/ 5
Crypto RegulatorBest VARA-Licensed Crypto Exchanges
Last updated
6
Regulated Exchanges
Country
United Arab EmiratesJurisdiction
Dubai, UAE
The brokers listed here hold licences from the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA), Dubai’s Tier 2 regulator overseeing crypto trading and virtual asset service providers. VARA mandates that regulated brokers comply with strict governance and disclosure standards specific to crypto assets within the Dubai jurisdiction. There is no specified retail leverage cap, and mandatory fund segregation rules are enforced to help protect client balances. VARA is known for its dedicated crypto regulatory framework distinct from traditional financial authorities in the region.
Verify on official register
Check an exchange's licence status directly on the VARA public register.
VARA Regulated Crypto Exchanges
6 crypto exchangesSort:
Top-tier derivatives liquidity and a best-in-class copy trading platform. The preferred choice for active crypto derivatives traders.
Cold StorageProof of ReservesStakingBest-in-class for CeFi/DeFi integration. The strongest platform for traders who want both exchange trading and on-chain DeFi access in a single interface.
Cold StorageProof of ReservesStakingDeFi Access- Cold StorageProof of ReservesStakingDeFi AccessVARATier 2Cold StorageProof of ReservesCold StorageProof of ReservesStaking
Frequently Asked Questions
VARA is classified as a Tier 2 crypto regulator. Established AML/KYC and registration framework. Provides meaningful oversight, though with fewer investor protections than Tier 1.
We currently list 6 crypto exchanges regulated or registered under VARA. The full list is shown above, sorted by overall rating.
VARA is based in United Arab Emirates and covers the Dubai, UAE jurisdiction. As a Tier 2 regulator, it requires AML/KYC registration and provides meaningful oversight, though investors should also verify whether the exchange holds additional licences.
Visit the official VARA website and use their public register or licence verification tool. Enter the exchange's registered name to confirm its current status. This is the most reliable way to verify regulatory standing.
VARA regulation primarily addresses licensing, AML/KYC compliance, and operational standards. Compensation for hacks depends on the exchange’s own insurance fund or Proof of Reserves commitments, not typically a government-backed compensation scheme. Always choose exchanges with published cold storage ratios and Proof of Reserves attestations.