BTC$77,156+3.3% ZEC$337.96+1.7% XMR$346.65+1.4% DASH$36.95+0.9% FIRO$0.7776+1.2% ARRR$0.1914+2.0% BEAM$0.0206-1.8% GRIN$0.0384-0.4% IRON$0.0608-1.8% SCRT$0.1059+11.6% NIGHT$0.0374+2.3% BTC$77,156+3.3% ZEC$337.96+1.7% XMR$346.65+1.4% DASH$36.95+0.9% FIRO$0.7776+1.2% ARRR$0.1914+2.0% BEAM$0.0206-1.8% GRIN$0.0384-0.4% IRON$0.0608-1.8% SCRT$0.1059+11.6% NIGHT$0.0374+2.3%
zkonomics
Home  /  Buy  /  United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates · Updated 04.13.26

Privacy coins in United Arab Emirates

In the UAE, both Zcash and Monero are banned on regulated platforms. VARA (Dubai's crypto regulator) and the DFSA (financial regulator for the DIFC free zone) issued a categorical prohibition on January 12, 2026 covering all 'anonymity-enhanced cryptocurrencies,' naming Zcash and Monero specifically. Self-custody and personal ownership remain legal.

zkonomics editorial · 3 min read

Your two options

Zcash (ZEC)
Not available on regulated platforms

No, you cannot buy Zcash through any UAE-regulated platform.

Read the Zcash guide >
Monero (XMR)
Not available on regulated platforms

No, you cannot buy Monero through any UAE-regulated platform.

Read the Monero guide >

What to know

Zcash and Monero cannot be bought or held through any UAE-regulated platform. Self-custody of these assets remains legal; the prohibition targets licensed venues, not personal wallets. If you are a resident or visitor, plan accordingly.

Regulatory detail

VARA (Dubai) and ADGM (Abu Dhabi) VASP licensing. Privacy coins (ZEC, XMR) banned from regulated platforms as of January 12, 2026.