Google crypto ads UAE: Google Updates Crypto Ad Rules, Clarifies CFD and Forex Licensing

Google crypto ads UAE rules will change from 21 October, when the company applies updated licensing requirements to advertisements targeting users in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), covering crypto exchanges, software wallets, contracts for difference (CFDs) and rolling spot forex. The policy change broadens eligibility for crypto advertisers while clarifying rules for leveraged trading products.

Under the new rules, firms in all four categories must hold a licence for the service they promote and obtain separate Google certification before their ads can run. The requirements apply to ads targeting UAE users, regardless of where the company is based.

Google crypto ads UAE: Crypto advertising eligibility

Crypto exchanges and software-wallet providers can seek approval with an appropriate licence from one of four regulators: the Capital Market Authority (CMA), the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) or the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Licensed crypto exchanges and software-wallet providers have been able to advertise to UAE users since February 2025. Google’s currently published policy specifies a VARA licence or an FSRA licence to operate a multilateral trading facility. The October update adds the CMA and DFSA as accepted regulators and no longer limits the FSRA route to multilateral trading facilities.

CFD and forex rules

For CFD and rolling spot forex advertising, Google recognises licences from the CMA, DFSA and FSRA. The existing policy already accepted licences from the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), DFSA and FSRA. The new wording substitutes the CMA for the SCA, which the CMA replaced as legal successor in January 2026. This change primarily brings Google’s regulator name up to date.

Advertisers in either category must also comply with local law and complete Google’s certification process through their Google Ads account. A multi-asset brokerage group needs to check which of its legal entities provides each advertised service, as a licence held by one entity, or approval to advertise CFDs, does not automatically cover a crypto campaign run under the same brand. Each campaign must qualify under the rules for its own product.