Google Expands UAE Crypto Ad License Options Starting Oct. 21

Google will add a fourth licensing route for cryptocurrency exchange and software wallet ads targeting the United Arab Emirates on Oct. 21, expanding the licenses advertisers can use to qualify.

The revised policy accepts licenses from the Capital Market Authority (CMA), Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) and Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Advertisers also need Google certification and must meet applicable local legal requirements. The policy covers UAE-targeted campaigns from Google Ads accounts worldwide.

Licensing and certification are already conditions for exchange and software wallet ads in the country. Google’s February 2025 policy listed the DFSA, FSRA and VARA as qualifying authorities. The revision adds the CMA to that list. Google set no separate deadline for license applications.

Advertisers that violate the policy will receive a warning of at least seven days before an account suspension. The expanded list of qualifying authorities takes effect Oct. 21.