UAE Dominates Crypto Landscape Despite U.S. GENIUS Act
The U.S. GENIUS Act, aimed at regulating stablecoins, won’t unseat the UAE as the global crypto leader. While it ensures stablecoin backing and consumer protection, it only addresses a small part of the crypto ecosystem and won’t take effect until mid-2026.
The UAE has been ahead in crypto regulation as 2018 with the FSRA and VARA in 2022. It offers tailored licensing, custody rules, and fraud prevention.The Digital Dirham and zero-tax regime further attract investors.
With over 500 crypto startups and record FDI, the UAE is a hub for innovation. OKX chose it for retail derivatives, reinforcing its position. The U.S., however, bans cbdcs and imposes high crypto taxes.
For the U.S. to become a crypto superpower, it needs more extensive and timely legislation. The GENIUS act is a step forward but not enough to bridge the gap with the UAE’s mature crypto framework.
Key points:
- GENIUS Act focuses on stablecoins, not all digital assets.
- UAE has a mature regulatory framework since 2018.
- UAE offers zero tax on crypto income and capital gains.
- UAE attracts crypto startups and FDI.
Despite the GENIUS Act, the UAE remains the world’s crypto hub due to its regulatory, innovation, and tax benefits. The U.S.needs more robust measures to compete.
