3iQ wins in-principle approval for Category 4 license in Abu Dhabi

What happened

The post 3iQ wins in-principle approval for Category 4 license in Abu Dhabi appeared first on Crypto Briefing . On October 12, 2026, the crypto investment manager announced that its UAE-based subsidiary, 3iQ Middle East Ltd, received in-principle approval for a Category 4 license.

is one step closer to running a regulated business in Abu Dhabi. The green light comes from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).

What a Category 4 license actually covers A Category 4 license allows 3iQ Middle East to act in an advisory role. It also permits the firm to provide non-discretionary investment arrangements, meaning the advisor can recommend and arrange deals, but the client retains the final say on what gets bought or sold.

3iQ frames the approval as part of a broader strategy to establish regulated operations in key digital asset markets around the world, viewing its Abu Dhabi entry as a vital piece of serving accredited investors globally. Advertisement The Further partnership and a $100 million head start The license news did not arrive in isolation.

Key facts

• On October 12, 2026, the crypto investment manager — announced: that its UAE-based subsidiary, 3iQ Middle East Ltd, received in-principle approval for a Category 4 license