• Regulatory Business Model Evaluation: Assess your business model for any regulated activities, particularly if you’re operating as a VASPs or offering financial services. This evaluation should include a review of your tokenomics, token launch plan, and white paper.
• Legal Blueprint Preparation: Develop a legal framework detailing the regulatory requirements in the UAE and any other jurisdictions you plan to operate in. This should cover corporate structures such as token issuers, DAOs, holding companies, and IP registrations.
• Professional Engagement: Engage lawyers experienced in UAE crypto regulations and a tax accountant to navigate cross-border tax implications.
• Engage with Regulators: Initiate preliminary discussions with relevant regulators if your business involves VASP activities.

• Jurisdiction Selection: Choose the most suitable jurisdiction for your business and engage with the necessary registrars or corporate service providers.
• Business Incorporation: Submit all required documentation to the jurisdiction’s authorities, ensuring full compliance with legal requirements.
• Operational Setup: Acquire a company seal, designate signatories, and appoint a company manager in the UAE.

• Emirates ID Application: Emirates IDs are mandatory for all founders and employees relocating to the UAE.
• Company Manager’s Emirates ID: The company manager must also have an Emirates ID to act in an official capacity.

• VASP Licensing: Initiate this process early, as obtaining the required licenses may take over 12 months.
• Additional Permits: Identify and secure any additional permits based on the specific nature of your business.

• Adherence to Labor Laws: Ensure compliance with the UAE’s labour regulations, including contracts and work permits.
• Leadership and Team Contracts: Formalize all agreements with board members, advisors, and employees in writing.

• Corporate Banking: Establish a corporate bank account, navigating through the specific challenges of securing banking services for crypto-related businesses. This may require engaging with multiple banks in the UAE and abroad.

• Exchange Partnerships: Set up accounts with reputable, UAE-compliant crypto exchanges to ensure legal and secure fiat on-and-off ramp capabilities.

• Contracts: Ensure all business agreements are documented in compliance with UAE local laws. Store these securely to protect your business’s legal interests.

• Preferred Dispute Resolution: Consider ADGM Arbitration for resolving disputes. ADGM operates under a common law framework, making it particularly well-suited for tech and financial sectors. The arbitration process ensures expert-driven, fair outcomes with legal principles familiar to international businesses.

• VAT and Corporate Tax Compliance: Comply with UAE’s corporate income tax regime, VAT regulations, and other tax obligations relevant to your business operations.
• Register for Corporate Tax within 3 months of incorporation 
• Register for VTA once x threshold is reached, within 30 days 

Meet Investors: Actively seek out venture capitalists, incubators, and other financial backers in the UAE. Building these connections can provide vital capital and networks for scaling your business.

Networking Events: Attend crypto, Web3, and investment conferences in the UAE to meet industry leaders and potential investors.

• Sanctions Compliance: Ensure compliance with international sanctions and UAE-specific financial transaction laws.
• Cross-Border Compliance: If operating internationally, ensure your business meets the regulatory requirements in all jurisdictions involved.
• AML/CFT Compliance: Develop and implement robust AML/CFT programs, including customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and suspicious activity reporting.
• Data Protection Compliance: Adhere to UAE data protection laws and international standards such as GDPR where applicable.
• UBO and License Renewals: Regularly renew business licenses and submit Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) reports to maintain compliance.

• Trademark Registration: Secure your brand by registering trademarks for your company name, logo, and products.
• IP Rights Assignment: Ensure intellectual property rights created by your team members are assigned to the company.

Stay Informed: The crypto and Web3 legal landscape is rapidly changing. Regularly monitor for new regulations and ensure your business remains compliant.