ADGM launches consultation over new crypto mining regulations

The ADGM registration authority (RA) is seeking industry feedback on its proposed guidance on crypto mining activities, which sets out the authority’s plans for a commercial framework for crypto mining, responsible operation principles, licensing requirements, ongoing obligations and its supervisory approach.

Although crypto mining is not classified as a regulated financial service in the ADGM, the ADGM’s commercial licensing regime is applicable and requires entities to obtain and maintain an appropriate approval from the RA.

The discussion paper proposes ongoing obligations for crypto mining which including transparency measures and disclosure of on-chain addresses used for mining rewards, and emphasises requirements for operational resilience, cybersecurity, record keeping, and ongoing supervision.

Given the inherent cross-border nature of digital asset infrastructure, the RA’s discussion paper also addresses how crypto mining groups which are headquartered in the ADGM should manage their overseas mining operations, and sets out that it expects them to apply ADGM standards to their global operations.

“This is an important moment for crypto miners in the ADGM, or those considering entering the market, to engage with the RA on the proposed measures in the discussion paper,” said Marie Chowdhry, a fintech expert with Pinsent Masons in Dubai.

“This is the opportunity for those affected to begin analysing where their potential gaps in cybersecurity, governance and other key parts of the regulations might fall and look at how best to address them.”

Responses to the discussion paper are open until 20 March 2026.