3iQ Wins Abu Dhabi Regulatory Approval for Digital Asset Unit
3iQ Middle East Ltd secured in-principal approval for a Category 4 license from Abu Dhabi's IFC, expanding the firm's global crypto footprint.
Canadian digital asset manager 3iQ Corp. announced that its UAE-based affiliate, 3iQ Middle East Ltd, has received in-principal approval for a Category 4 license from Abu Dhabi's International Financial Centre, marking a significant regulatory milestone for the Toronto-headquartered firm's expansion into the Gulf region.
The in-principal approval signals that the regulator has reviewed 3iQ Middle East's application and provisionally agreed to grant the license, subject to the firm meeting any remaining compliance and operational requirements before full authorization is issued. Category 4 designations within Abu Dhabi's regulatory framework typically govern firms involved in investment management and advisory activities.
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3iQ has positioned itself as one of the earlier institutional-grade players in digital asset investment products, having launched regulated crypto funds in Canada before broadening its geographic strategy. The Middle East affiliate reflects a broader industry trend of crypto-focused asset managers seeking regulated footholds in Gulf financial hubs as the region courts global financial institutions with competitive licensing regimes.
Abu Dhabi has emerged as a focal point for digital asset regulation in the Middle East, with its International Financial Centre establishing frameworks designed to attract institutional participants. 3iQ's approval adds to a growing list of crypto firms securing regulatory standing in the emirate as jurisdictions worldwide race to formalize oversight of digital assets.
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