Cryptocurrency
How to buy Bitcoin in Dubai
Dubai is a magnificent city to live and work in. But how can someone buy Bitcoin in Dubai? Is it legal to buy Bitcoin in Dubai? Is Dubai crypto-friendly?
Here’s a quick guide with the answers. The great news is that, yes, buying Bitcoin (BTC) in the United Arab Emirates is permitted, and the country is actually one of the most welcoming to cryptocurrency exchanges and investors.
Is Dubai crypto-friendly?
The thriving metropolis of Dubai in the UAE has long been deemed a crypto-friendly city. Some describe the UAE as the most crypto-friendly country.
What’s more, there is zero tax to pay on cryptocurrency trading in the UAE, as well as zero income or capital gains tax. This combination has made the Middle Eastern country massively attractive to cryptocurrency and blockchain companies and the users of these technologies. There are many UAE crypto traders and plenty of crypto investment options in the UAE.
But is it legal to buy Bitcoin in Dubai? Dubai and the UAE have some regulations on cryptocurrencies, including policies to protect investors. Cryptocurrencies are not licensed or recognized as legal tender; however, there are no laws against buying Bitcoin in the UAE or owning or trading Bitcoin or other crypto.
How to buy cryptocurrency in Dubai
Buying Bitcoin in Dubai and anywhere in the UAE is quite straightforward; it starts with choosing a crypto exchange, registering and creating an account, and then adding the funds needed to buy the cryptocurrency of choice.
Bitcoin is available on any exchange, and other leading cryptocurrencies are available on most major exchanges. Investors who plan to hold on to Bitcoin usually want to move their Bitcoin away from an exchange into a Bitcoin wallet or to more secure Bitcoin storage like a hardware wallet. Let’s look at the steps to buying Bitcoin in the United Arab Emirates:
1. Choose an exchange
The first priority when choosing an exchange is security; crypto buyers should always research the exchange and check online reviews, then review the coins, the exchange lists and the fees.
2. Register
Registering with an exchange starts with an email, a password and any other security authentication available. Cryptocurrency exchange users should always make full use of any additional security options. New exchange users will usually need to provide the exchange with an image of a piece of photo ID to complete its Know Your Customer (KYC) checks.
3. Fund and buy
Once an account has been created, funds can be added from fiat accounts. After that, it’s possible to buy BTC with UAE dirhams easily this way or to select another trading pair.
Which crypto exchanges operate in Dubai and the UAE?
The intriguing thing is that there are many leading exchanges that operate in the UAE; investors can pick from the most well-known, the best-reviewed, those thought of as the safest, and those with the highest availability of leading cryptocurrencies.
Some of the crypto exchanges and Bitcoin trading platforms in Dubai and the UAE are eToro, OKX, HTX (formerly Huobi) and Binance. Bitcoin brokers in the UAE, such as Rain, OKX, Uphold, Bybit and Binance, are regulated by the UAE Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) or the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).
How to choose Bitcoin wallets in Dubai
Just like Bitcoin trading platforms in Dubai, there are lots of options for Bitcoin wallets in Dubai to store crypto safely. The first step is to choose a Bitcoin wallet suitable for investor plans or behavior.
Online wallets or wallet applications aren’t as safe as hardware wallets, but they can be more suitable for investors planning to move their cryptocurrency holdings or use them on a regular basis. Hot wallets to choose from include Trust Wallet or Electrum.
More valuable Bitcoin holdings or funds left idle for some time are best stored in safer hardware wallets, such as Trezor or Ledger Nano.
Can you buy Bitcoin in Dubai with cash?
It’s possible to buy Bitcoin in Dubai with cash straight from an account or by using a credit card. After an account has been set up with an exchange, the next step is to add fiat money funds to the account and then go on to purchase Bitcoin.
Does Dubai have Bitcoin ATMs?
The UAE is so welcoming to crypto that it is one of the countries to have Bitcoin ATMs, and Dubai’s first Bitcoin ATM was installed at the five-star Rixos Premium Dubai Hotel in 2019. At the kiosk, visitors can insert cash and buy Bitcoin instantly.
Is buying Bitcoin via P2P in Dubai common?
Peer-to-peer (P2P) cryptocurrency exchanges allow users to trade Bitcoin directly with one another, unlike centralized or decentralized exchanges. On a P2P exchange, it’s possible to look at a seller’s list of assets for sale and choose accordingly. Buyers and sellers agree on the price of the cryptocurrency for sale before the sale is made.
P2P exchanges can be more common in countries with greater restrictions on cryptocurrency exchanges; in Dubai, that’s not the case. The major exchanges operating in Dubai often have P2P functionality as well as standard trading options, which provides the best of both worlds. The exchanges offering P2P trading in Dubai include Binance, Paxful, OKX, HTX, Bybit and KuCoin.
Are there crypto-friendly banks in the UAE?
It is interesting to know how banks in Dubai and the UAE view cryptocurrencies and crypto users. The UAE doesn’t fail the crypto entrepreneur, and there are a number of crypto-friendly banks in the UAE that will allow crypto businesses to open and use fiat accounts.
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) has no policies restricting its customers from buying and selling crypto. Although it doesn’t offer crypto trading, it’s possible to link an FAB account with a crypto exchange to fund Bitcoin purchases. FAB also has future plans to leverage Web3 and digital assets for its users.
Exercise caution while dealing with cryptocurrencies
It is fortunate for Dubai residents to have access to a vibrant financial environment that enables them to engage with the world of cryptocurrencies.
However, it is important to remember that the value of Bitcoin and many other cryptocurrencies is extremely volatile and subject to significant price swings in either direction. Therefore, before entering the cryptocurrency market, careful research and knowledge of the risks involved are crucial.
Cryptocurrency
Koii Network Launches World’s Largest Community-Powered Supercomputer with Over 100,000 Nodes
[PRESS RELEASE – Halifax, Canada, January 2nd, 2025]
The world’s largest community-powered computing network launches with over 100,000 nodes processing 185.1 TB of data daily
Koii Network, in a watershed moment for distributed computing, has activated its mainnet, transforming 100,000+ personal computers into the world’s most powerful community-owned supercomputer. This milestone marks the first time a decentralized network has launched with infrastructure already processing more data than established cloud providers.
“Today isn’t about launching a network – it’s about democratizing the backbone of AI computing,” states Al Morris, founder of Koii Network. “While the industry debates theoretical capabilities, we’ve built a supercomputer powered by people, not corporations.”
Day One Infrastructure Metrics
- 100,000+ active nodes globally
- 185.1 terabytes of data processed daily
- 7 million daily transactions automated
- Production-ready AI infrastructure
- Multi-token compute marketplace
The mainnet introduction delivers several transformative capabilities
- Direct token liquidity for existing node operators
- Enterprise-grade infrastructure through Stakecraft, Infstones, and Liquify
- Seamless cross-chain operations via AllBridge
- Decentralized AI compute marketplace
“Most networks launch with promises. We’re launching with power,” Morris continues. “Our infrastructure isn’t theoretical – it’s already the largest distributed computing grid in Web3, processing real workloads at scale.”
Strategic Launch Partners
- Stakecraft: Enterprise node infrastructure
- Infstones: Professional validator services
- Liquify: Institutional-grade staking
- Haji.ro: Network security
- Outlier Ventures: Strategic development
The activation follows multiple oversubscribed private rounds, with public participation opportunities arriving through premier launchpads this month. In an unprecedented move, node operators who built the network receive immediate token liquidity – reflecting Koii’s commitment to infrastructure over speculation.
Enterprise developers can now access the world’s largest distributed computing network through Koii’s comprehensive documentation. The platform supports everything from AI model training to general compute workloads, all tradeable through its revolutionary multi-token marketplace.
Critical Milestones
- January 2: Genesis Block & AllBridge Integration
- January 2-6: Partner Infrastructure Deployment
- January 6: Community Token Distribution Begins
- January 7-9: Launchpad KOII sales on Spores & Kommunitas
- January 13: Exchange Trading Commences = Token Listing
About Koii Network
Koii Network has united 100,000+ computers into the world’s largest supercomputer powered by People. Already handling more data daily than most networks process monthly, Koii democratizes access to advanced computing while ensuring fair compensation for infrastructure providers.
Binance Free $600 (CryptoPotato Exclusive): Use this link to register a new account and receive $600 exclusive welcome offer on Binance (full details).
LIMITED OFFER for CryptoPotato readers at Bybit: Use this link to register and open a $500 FREE position on any coin!
Cryptocurrency
Aptis Analytics Secures $3.8 Million in Series B Funding to Bolster Trusted Cryptocurrency Compliance Solutions
[PRESS RELEASE – London, United Kingdom, January 2nd, 2025]
Aptis Analytics: Empowering Businesses to Build Trust with Regulators and Users
Aptis Analytics, a leader in AML compliance solutions for cryptocurrency, has successfully raised $3.8 million in its latest Series B funding round. This new investment underscores investor confidence in Aptis Analytics’ proven capabilities in crypto compliance, positioning the company to meet growing market demand amid stringent regulations such as the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) law.
Cutting-Edge Technology to Ensure Full Compliance with MiCA Regulations
This substantial funding will enable Aptis Analytics to accelerate the development of its innovative technology, aimed at helping crypto firms maintain full regulatory compliance with MiCA and global Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements. A portion of the investment will be allocated to R&D, ensuring the company stays at the forefront of AML compliance solutions. The funding will also support the expansion of Aptis’ transaction monitoring tools, enabling firms to adapt to evolving AML and transparency requirements efficiently.
“Securing this round of funding reflects our investors’ trust in Aptis Analytics as a leader in crypto compliance technology,” said Eric Levy, CEO of Aptis Analytics. “With its ongoing expansion, Aptis is recognized for its commitment to delivering secure and compliant solutions tailored to the needs of the rapidly evolving crypto landscape.”
Advanced Transaction Monitoring Tools for Enhanced Transparency and AML Compliance
The latest MiCA regulations demand enhanced scrutiny and transparency in crypto transactions, and Aptis Analytics is delivering tools that meet and exceed these standards. Aptis’ compliance suite includes features such as real-time transaction tracking, risk-based scoring, and automated reporting, simplifying AML compliance for cryptocurrency companies.
With this new funding, Aptis Analytics is positioned to continue innovating while setting a high standard in cryptocurrency compliance.
For more information, users can visit https://aptis-analytics.com.
About Aptis Analytics
Aptis Analytics is a pioneering provider of compliance technology solutions for the cryptocurrency industry. Specializing in Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and regulatory compliance, Aptis enables crypto firms to build trust with users and regulators by offering cutting-edge tools that ensure transparency and accountability. The company’s mission is to empower businesses in the rapidly evolving crypto landscape by delivering secure, compliant, and reliable solutions.
Website: https://aptis-analytics.com
Binance Free $600 (CryptoPotato Exclusive): Use this link to register a new account and receive $600 exclusive welcome offer on Binance (full details).
LIMITED OFFER for CryptoPotato readers at Bybit: Use this link to register and open a $500 FREE position on any coin!
Cryptocurrency
Meme Coins’ Market Dominance Faces Threat from AI Agent Coins
With their explosive gains, meme coins have transformed the fortunes of many investors virtually overnight. However, their dominance in the market is under threat.
According to Dragonfly Capital managing partner Haseeb Qureshi, meme coins will lose market share to “AI agent” coins. Qureshi described this shift as a migration from “financial nihilism to financial over-optimism.”
Rise of AI Agent Tokens
In his recent post on X, Qureshi said that meme coins, known for their reliance on internet culture and speculative appeal, are being overshadowed by AI-themed tokens linked to autonomous systems or chatbots. While these “AI agents” are currently rudimentary and often rely on human intervention so that it doesn’t go “off the rails,” they are attracting attention due to the public’s growing fascination with artificial intelligence.
Qureshi stated that the buzz around AI agent coins comes from their perceived utility and the trend of using AI in different industries. However, he is skeptical about their long-term success, predicting that interest will fade as the novelty wears off and the technological limitations become clearer.
“Right now these chatbots are fascinating to us because they are so novel. It’s like seeing an elephant paint. The first time you see it, you don’t really care that the painting is not very good – it’s spectacular to see. But the 1000th time, the novelty wears thin. I believe that will start to happen as these chatbots plateau.”
By 2026, he expects market sentiment to shift, wherein users would possibly favor human-led projects over AI-driven ones. While AI agent coins may dominate attention in 2025, he warns that their impact could be temporary, driven more by hype than substantive advancements.
AI Meme Coins Surpass $10B Market Cap
On January 2, AI meme coins collectively reached a market value of over $10 billion, as per CoinGecko, as it increased by more than 26% in the past 24 hours alone. During the same period, the trading volumes hit $2.46 billion. ai16z topped the charts with almost a $2.66 billion market cap, while Fartcoin and Zerebro followed suit with $1.3 billion and $770 million in value, respectively.
The growth comes after last month’s slump as December saw an $18% drop in the meme coin sector, with its value falling from a $137 billion high on December 9 to a little over $98 billion at month’s end. Scams and rug pulls were key factors in the $40 billion loss.
Binance Free $600 (CryptoPotato Exclusive): Use this link to register a new account and receive $600 exclusive welcome offer on Binance (full details).
LIMITED OFFER for CryptoPotato readers at Bybit: Use this link to register and open a $500 FREE position on any coin!
- Forex2 years ago
Forex Today: the dollar is gaining strength amid gloomy sentiment at the start of the Fed’s week
- Forex2 years ago
How is the Australian dollar doing today?
- Forex2 years ago
Unbiased review of Pocket Option broker
- Forex2 years ago
Dollar to pound sterling exchange rate today: Pound plummeted to its lowest since 1985
- Cryptocurrency2 years ago
What happened in the crypto market – current events today
- World2 years ago
Why are modern video games an art form?
- Commodities2 years ago
Copper continues to fall in price on expectations of lower demand in China
- Forex2 years ago
The dollar is down again against major world currencies