UAE crypto, wallet, CFD and rolling spot forex ads required CMA, DFSA, FSRA or VARA licensing

Google updated its Financial products and services policy, including the Cryptocurrencies and related products policy, to clarify licensing requirements for advertisers targeting the United Arab Emirates. The requirements apply from October 21, 2026.

Cryptocurrency exchange and software wallet ads are permitted where the advertiser is licensed by the CMA, DFSA, FSRA or VARA. For complex speculative financial products, which the policy lists as contracts for difference and rolling spot forex, the accepted regulators are the CMA, DFSA and FSRA, with VARA omitted. Advertisers must also comply with other local legal requirements and be certified by Google. Google says violations will not lead to immediate suspension and that it will issue a warning at least 7 days before any account suspension.