Crypto News, 23 September 2026: Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has introduced stricter compliance rules for virtual asset service providers (VASPs), requiring immediate adoption of detailed transaction record‑keeping and audit trails.
Effective 23 September 2026, VASPs must maintain proper books, transaction logs and client statements to ensure clear audit trails for every transaction. The directive, issued under VARA’s Compliance and Risk Management Rulebook, follows a case where inadequate records left a user’s dispute unresolved.
The rules apply across Dubai’s crypto ecosystem, covering trading, custody and asset management services. VARA emphasised that the mandate is designed to strengthen accountability, prevent disputes and align local practice with international standards.
There is no grace period: firms must comply immediately. Providers that adapt quickly may gain a competitive edge by demonstrating stronger user protection and regulatory alignment, while lagging firms risk losing trust.
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