• Bybit gets a full federal license in the UAE to offer crypto services across the entire country.
• The crypto exchange will open a new regional hub in Abu Dhabi with over 500 staff.
• Bybit expands globally with a focus on compliance after securing licenses in Europe, India, and the UAE.

Bybit has secured a full Virtual Asset Platform Operator License from the UAE’s Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA). This makes it the first global crypto exchange to receive such approval under federal regulation. The license allows Bybit to offer trading, brokerage, custody, and fiat services. These services will be accessible to both retail and institutional clients across the UAE.

Unlike licenses issued under Dubai’s VARA, the SCA license covers the entire UAE mainland. This development gives Bybit a regulatory edge over other exchanges operating only within Dubai’s jurisdiction. Other market rivals like Binance and OKX are only provisionally or partially licensed by local governments. Earlier this year, OKX became the first major crypto exchange to receive its MiCA certification in 2025.

Expansion Plans in Abu Dhabi

Bybit is planning to open a regional head office in Abu Dhabi. The office will house over 500 employees who will be the representatives of various departments. The teams are to focus on the operations, compliance, customer service, and partnerships. The company will also hire additional local professionals and improve its image in the area.

In conjunction with the staffing process, Bybit will introduce educational and Web3 innovation initiatives. Such programs will promote the development of the industry and raise awareness. The company thinks that local joint ventures will enable it to enhance its presence in the UAE market.

Licensing Strategy Across Markets

Bybit has taken a definite route to acquire licenses prior to venturing into new markets. It was first supported by the SCA in February 2025 with the help of the Blockchain Centre in Abu Dhabi. Before entering the UAE market, it secured a MiCA license in Europe and resumed operations in India.

The company’s approach emphasizes legal compliance from the beginning. This strategy helps avoid regulatory clashes that have affected other exchanges. Its regional hubs, including one in Vienna, are part of a wider growth plan targeting emerging crypto markets.

Bybit also made progress in Vietnam. The company has not yet set up an office there, but is exploring available business opportunities there.

Security Breach and Ongoing Challenges

Bybit suffered a significant security breach in early 2025. The Lazarus Group hackers stole $1.46 billion from the exchange. This theft contributed to North Korea’s highest-ever annual haul in crypto theft. The group has stolen over $6 billion in total, according to blockchain analysis.

Most 2025 crypto attacks came through social engineering methods. These tactics involve manipulating individuals to gain system access. Despite this setback, Bybit’s global trading volumes have remained stable.

The firm now serves over 60 million users worldwide. It offers more than 300 spot trading pairs and lists over 100 tokens. Its compliance-first model continues to attract investor trust.