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Regulation and Policy

UAE to Abolish VAT on Cryptocurrency Transactions

UAE to Abolish VAT on Cryptocurrency Transactions

Starting November 15, 2024, the United Arab Emirates will remove Value Added Tax (VAT) from cryptocurrency transactions for both individuals and businesses, marking a significant shift in its regulatory approach.

Unlike many countries that are still formulating clear guidelines, the UAE has proactively embraced the crypto sector.

Previously, the UAE imposed a 5% VAT on crypto transactions, which complicated participation due to the nature of digital currencies.

The recent policy change aims to promote investment and growth in the cryptocurrency space. The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) announced that transactions involving cryptocurrencies, including conversions, will no longer be subject to VAT.


READ MORE: Bitcoin’s First Exchange Rate Set 15 Years Ago: A Look Back at Its Astonishing Rise


Dubai is positioning itself as a key player in the global cryptocurrency market, attracting various companies with its favorable regulatory environment.

The UAE has previously exempted certain financial activities from VAT since 2018, allowing businesses that paid VAT on past crypto transactions to potentially seek refunds. However, this may require reviewing transaction records, which could lead to penalties for any identified fraud.

From July 2023 to June 2024, the UAE received over $30 billion in crypto inflows, establishing itself as a major economy in the Middle East and North Africa region. The value of decentralized finance (DeFi) services in the UAE surged by 74%, further solidifying its growing crypto ecosystem.

With this tax exemption initiative, the UAE is set to attract more venture capital and blockchain enterprises in the near future.

Author
Alexander Stefanov

Reporter at CoinsPress

Alex is an experienced finance journalist and a cryptocurrency and blockchain enthusiast. With over five years of experience covering the industry, he deeply understands the complex and constantly evolving world of digital assets. His insightful and thought-provoking articles provide readers with a clear picture of the latest developments and trends in the market. His passionate approach allows him to break down complex ideas into accessible and insightful content. Follow up on his content to be up to date with the most important trends and topics - stay ahead of the curve with CoinsPress.

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