You’re raising a fund with digital assets in scope, out of the United Arab Emirates. Structure and licensing move together, not one after the other.
Information, not advice
This page is information, not legal advice about your matter. A retainer begins only when a lawyer confirms it.
Start here
Decide who is allowed to invest before you decide anything else
Whether the fund is exempt, qualified investor or public decides who can invest, what you must disclose, and which regulator authorises it.
What to work through, in order
Investor class and disclosure
Whether the fund is domestic under SCA rules or a DIFC or ADGM fund under the DFSA or FSRA, and whether it is exempt, qualified investor or public. Each category carries different investor eligibility and disclosure.
The licensing route
Direct authorisation from the SCA, DFSA or ADGM FSRA, or operating through an already authorised fund manager. Free zone routes are generally faster but confine where the fund may be marketed.
Where the vehicle sits
DIFC and ADGM vehicles offer common-law structures and treaty access, while mainland structures suit a local investor base. Economic substance requirements apply either way.
Next steps
What happens if you go ahead
Scoping call
Written scope and fixed-fee quote
Engagement, once a lawyer confirms
Who would handle it
Offices
Dubai
DMCC Crypto Centre, 12th Floor, Uptown Tower, Dubai