BurjX Launches as a Licensed Digital Asset Brokerage
On July 21, 2025, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates witnessed a significant milestone in the financial technology sector as BurjX announced its debut as a fully licensed digital asset brokerage. This innovative platform will facilitate the trading of more than 100 cryptocurrencies, establishing itself as a leader in compliance and product offerings in the rapidly evolving UAE market.
The Booming Cryptocurrency Landscape in the UAE
The cryptocurrency landscape in the UAE is booming, with revenue forecasts indicating a staggering US$395.9 million by 2025. By 2026, it is anticipated that the user count will soar to approximately 3.88 million, reflecting an extraordinary trend where nearly one in three residents is expected to invest in digital currencies within the next year. Such figures place the UAE among the top countries in terms of cryptocurrency adoption globally.
Commitment to Regulation and Trust
BurjX is committed to building a future for the UAE that emphasizes regulation, trust, and competitiveness on an international scale.
“We established ourselves here to create a platform that embodies these values and proves that homegrown initiatives can lead the market globally,”
stated Omar Abbas, CEO and Co-Founder of BurjX, who also co-founded Canada’s NDAX, a leading cryptocurrency exchange.
Expertise and Governance
Adam Ferris, the Co-Founder and Chairman of BurjX, pointed out the rarity of startups achieving such advanced regulatory compliance and technical execution upon launch. His background includes experience at Goldman Sachs and holding a JD/MBA from Harvard, underscoring the firm’s ambition to become a significant global contender in the digital asset space.
Dr. Ryan Lemand has joined BurjX’s Board, bringing considerable expertise from his previous roles at Binance and as the former Head of Risk for the UAE’s SCA. His involvement enhances BurjX’s governance capabilities focused on navigating the complexities of digital finance regulations.
Seamless Transactions and Security
Customers can easily switch from UAE Dirhams to digital currencies thanks to BurjX’s integration with Zand Bank, facilitating instantaneous account funding and trades. Underpinned by the advanced regulatory framework of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the platform offers a seamless, reliable fiat-to-crypto transaction experience, reinforcing its status as a strategically important player in the region’s financial technology landscape.
What sets BurjX apart is its dual licensing for both trading and custody, allowing it to provide institutional-grade security and efficiency. Utilizing infrastructure comparable to that of NASDAQ, it can handle upwards of one million transactions per second, with enhanced security features provided by Fireblocks’ multi-party computation wallet technology. This makes BurjX a robust choice for both novice investors and financial institutions, all managed under a comprehensive governance framework aimed at protecting user assets.
Private Client Division and Future Growth
BurjX has also introduced a Private Client Division tailored for family offices and high-net-worth individuals. This division offers a tailored approach with over-the-counter (OTC) services, dedicated support, and an expansive collection of digital assets, allowing sophisticated investors to build well-rounded portfolios with confidence.
Moving forward, BurjX is poised for growth as it aims to expand its services throughout the UAE and the wider MENA region. Its strategy centers on reinforcing core values such as security, ease of use, and regulatory compliance, capitalizing on the increasing adoption of cryptocurrencies and the growing interest from affluent clients. BurjX is now firmly positioned to act as the UAE’s gateway to the global cryptocurrency economy.
Conclusion
Established by visionaries Omar Abbas and Adam Ferris, BurjX operates under the jurisdiction of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of ADGM. It promises to reshape regional interactions with digital assets, providing a regulated and homegrown alternative in the cryptocurrency market.