UAE-Based BurjX Secures FSRA Approval for Regulated Crypto Platform
BurjX, a digital asset trading platform founded in the UAE, has officially received its Financial Services Permission from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The authorisation enables the firm to conduct brokerage and custody services, cementing its position as a regulated player in the region’s growing digital asset landscape.
With this regulatory milestone, BurjX emerges as one of the few fully licensed platforms in the Middle East, offering trading access to over 100 digital assets. The launch marks a significant step forward for local innovation, setting new benchmarks in regulatory compliance, product diversity, and investor access.
According to industry forecasts, the UAE’s cryptocurrency market is expected to generate US$395.9 million in revenue by 2025, with an estimated 3.88 million users by 2026. With nearly a third of the population projected to hold crypto assets within a year, the UAE ranks among the global leaders in adoption.
“We came to the UAE to build something that reflects the future of this region: regulated, trusted, and globally competitive,” said Omar Abbas, Co-Founder and CEO of BurjX, who previously co-founded NDAX, Canada’s leading crypto exchange. “Securing our FSRA license and launching with 100+ assets is proof of what’s possible when you build with conviction from the ground up. We’re not another imported platform entering the UAE. We’re a homegrown one, built here to lead globally.”
“It’s rare to see a startup go live with this level of regulatory and technical execution,” added Adam Ferris, Co-Founder and Chairman. “This launch validates the strength of our infrastructure, the calibre of our team, and our ambition to position BurjX as a global player from day one.”
As part of its governance strategy, BurjX has appointed Dr Ryan Lemand to its Board. A former Binance board member and ex-Head of Risk at the UAE’s Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), Lemand brings a wealth of experience in regulation, institutional finance, and the digital asset space.
Frictionless AED On-Ramps and Institutional Custody
Integrated with local banking infrastructure through Zand Bank, BurjX allows users to instantly fund accounts in AED and access trading across 100+ tokens within seconds. Operating under ADGM’s robust regulatory framework, BurjX positions itself as one of the region’s first true fiat-to-crypto bridges—combining accessibility with compliance.
Licensed for both brokerage and custody, BurjX delivers institutional-grade infrastructure built on NASDAQ-level systems capable of processing over one million transactions per second. Security is bolstered by Fireblocks’ MPC wallet technology and multi-layer governance, alongside comprehensive insurance for both hot and cold wallets.
Private Wealth Services for Sophisticated Investors
To serve high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and institutional clients, BurjX has launched a Private Client Division. This premium service offers OTC execution, dedicated relationship management, and access to a diverse range of digital assets. Designed for strategic portfolio building, the division enables clients to invest with greater confidence and customisation.
Outlook: Scaling Beyond Borders
Following its official launch, BurjX is preparing to scale across the UAE and broader MENA region. With a firm focus on regulatory strength, user simplicity, and platform security, the company aims to become the Middle East’s definitive entry point to the global crypto economy.
