Capital.com Prepares to Launch Spot Crypto Trading in UAE After Virtual-Asset License

Capital.com is preparing to launch spot cryptocurrency trading in the United Arab Emirates. The move comes after Capital Vault, an affiliate of Capital.com, obtained a virtual-asset license from the UAE Capital Market Authority on August 21. This license allows Capital Vault to handle virtual assets as an agent or matched principal and to custody client assets.

The new service will enable UAE clients to buy and hold actual cryptocurrencies through the Capital.com app. Once launched, Capital Vault will oversee order execution, custody, and settlement for these transactions. This is different from Capital.com's existing contracts-for-difference model, which gives users exposure to price moves without direct ownership of the underlying asset.

Capital Vault operates as an independent regulated entity with governance, custody, and risk-management systems separated from Capital.com's other business units. It has opened an office in Abu Dhabi and is assembling a local team focused on crypto.