Dubai VARA Partners with Securitize on Tokenization Innovation

Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and Securitize have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance tokenization and digital asset infrastructure across the UAE. The MoU will create a collaborative framework between VARA and Securitize, supporting regulated tokenization initiatives and fostering institutional participation in Dubai's digital asset ecosystem.

The partnership aims to attract more talent and explore how tokenized financial products should operate under Dubai's regulatory framework. Tokenization is gaining traction globally, with jurisdictions like the UK also investing in this area. The London Stock Exchange recently partnered with Kraken to launch tokenized stock trading on its night-time trading venue.

Citing Dubai as one of the world's most forward-looking jurisdictions for digital asset innovation, Carlos Domingo, co-founder and CEO of Securitize, emphasized the importance of collaborating with regulators as tokenization moves from concept to mainstream financial infrastructure. VARA granted its 50th virtual asset service provider (VASP) license to Tribe Tokenisation FZE in early July.

The MoU's specific infrastructure goals are to create a broad framework for collaboration between VARA and Securitize, rather than implementing a specific technological stack or product. The partnership will support tokenization initiatives in Dubai, with no specific projects announced at this stage.