Bybit, the globally recognized cryptocurrency exchange headquartered in Dubai, has taken a major leap forward in its international expansion strategy. The company has officially secured a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license from Austria’s Financial Market Authority, giving it the green light to operate as a regulated digital asset service provider across 29 European countries.

This move enables Bybit to serve nearly 500 million people across the European Economic Area, providing its digital products and services under a unified regulatory framework — a milestone made possible thanks to the company’s strong foundation in Dubai, a city increasingly seen as a launchpad for tech-driven innovation.

With this license in hand, Bybit has also unveiled its new European headquarters in Vienna, Austria. The decision to expand into Europe is not just about market opportunity — it’s a direct reflection of Dubai’s ambition to be a global leader in blockchain and fintech. Bybit’s ability to move swiftly and secure regulatory approval abroad demonstrates the strength of Dubai’s business ecosystem and its supportive approach toward future-facing industries like crypto and Web3.

Ben Zhou, co-founder and CEO of Bybit, noted that compliance is at the heart of the company’s mission: “Securing this license in Europe is a reflection of our Dubai-rooted values — transparency, innovation, and global vision. We’re proud to take this next step while continuing to represent Dubai on the global stage.”

As part of its European rollout, Bybit plans to make significant investments in Austria, including the hiring of over 100 local employees to meet regional demands and compliance standards. But the bigger picture remains centered around Dubai’s influence — a city that has empowered startups and established players alike to scale internationally through clear regulations and forward-thinking policies.

Mazurka Zeng, CEO of Bybit Europe, shared similar sentiments: “Our expansion into Europe is deeply tied to our roots in Dubai. The city gave us the foundation to build responsibly, grow sustainably, and now export that model to a wider global audience.”

In addition to scaling its services, Bybit is also investing in education and blockchain research. Through its Blockchain for Good Alliance, the company is collaborating with European universities to nurture future talent and explore real-world blockchain solutions — echoing similar programs already launched in Dubai’s thriving academic-tech ecosystem.

Dubai’s positioning as a leading digital hub continues to bear fruit through success stories like Bybit’s. The city’s commitment to fostering innovation, building regulatory clarity, and supporting bold ventures is now echoing across borders — with Vienna as the latest example of that reach.