Harly Zappino, Managing Partner at Neo Legal, captivated audiences at Fintech Week Dubai 2026 with his keynote "How to Get a VARA License." Held at the Radisson Blu Dubai Deira Creek, the event gathered over 300 senior decision-makers to explore payments, security, blockchain, and regtech innovations.?

Zappino's session provided a roadmap for Web3 ventures navigating Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) framework. He outlined key steps: confirming jurisdiction (VARA vs. free zones like DIFC), defining regulated activities from VARA's list, submitting an Initial Disclosure Questionnaire (IDQ) to Dubai Economy and Tourism or free zone authorities, and paying at least 50% of fees to initiate review. The process typically spans 4-6 months, including 3-6 weeks for application filing with business plans and architecture docs, followed by clarifications and final issuance within 1-2 weeks upon compliance.

A recognized leader in Web3 regulation, VASP licensing, tokenisation, and international structuring, Zappino advises across UAE, Australia, and global hubs. His expertise covers multi-billion-dollar token launches, licensing major exchanges in UAE/ADGM/Australia/BVI, DAO setups, and UHNWIs' cross-border strategies. He led the world's first IPO accepting crypto and funds in Cayman/BVI/UAE/Australia.[user bio]?

As Founder of Neo Legal, Neo Finance, and Neo World Ventures, Zappino invests in blockchain, gaming, RWAs, and tech startups. Active in crypto since 2015, he blends regulatory, commercial, and technical insights for founders and institutions.

Attendees praised his practical guidance amid Dubai's booming digital asset scene. "Harly demystified VARA—essential for scaling in UAE," noted one participant. Zappino emphasized compliance pitfalls like vague activity mapping, urging structured applications.