In this episode of The Riffle, we examine the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA)’s guidance on investor classification and onboarding and its implications for Virtual Asset Service Providers operating in Dubai.

The discussion explores how VARA requires VASPs to categorise clients as Retail, Qualified, or Institutional Investors, the financial and knowledge-based eligibility thresholds for accessing high-risk virtual asset products, and the mandatory onboarding, suitability, and verification controls that firms must implement.

We also consider lifecycle management, reclassification triggers, record-keeping obligations, and VARA’s supervisory and enforcement expectations.

A concise overview for boards, senior management, compliance and legal teams, risk functions, and VASPs seeking to align investor onboarding frameworks with VARA’s regulatory standards.

🎙️ Presented by 10 Leaves