OKX Celebrates Official Launch in UAE with Surprise Guest Pep Guardiola

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On the evening of October 10th, Dubai’s iconic Museum of the Future became the stage for a landmark moment in the Middle East’s digital economy: OKX, a leading global onchain technology company, officially announced its operational launch in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) under full regulatory compliance. With this milestone, OKX has become the first global cryptocurrency exchange to offer AED banking rails for both retail and institutional clients in the UAE—marking a major leap forward for crypto adoption in the region.

The high-profile event brought together industry pioneers, blockchain innovators, and sports royalty, underscoring the growing intersection between technology, finance, and culture.

A Star-Studded Celebration of Innovation

In a surprise appearance that electrified the audience, Pep Guardiola, the acclaimed manager of Manchester City’s Men’s First Team, joined as a special guest. As part of OKX’s ongoing role as Manchester City’s Official Sleeve Partner, the collaboration highlights shared values of innovation, precision, and forward-thinking strategy.

Speaking at the event, Guardiola shared his enthusiasm:

"I'm very proud to be here in Dubai with Manchester City's Official Sleeve Partner OKX as part of their celebrations and announcement that they will enter the market. OKX has been a major partner of the club for the last three years and we share a commitment to innovation, adaptability, and success. Technology is a huge part of performance on the pitch and further advancements in this space to enhance fan experiences and activity is exciting. It's been a fantastic event to be part of this evening and I thank OKX for inviting me."

His presence not only amplified the global visibility of the launch but also reinforced how digital innovation is reshaping traditional industries—from sports to financial services.

Industry Leaders Unite for the Future of Web3

Beyond the spotlight moment, the evening featured insightful contributions from some of the most influential figures in blockchain and finance:

These leaders participated in panel discussions exploring the transformative potential of blockchain technology across sectors, emphasizing Dubai’s strategic positioning as a hub for Web3 innovation under forward-looking regulatory frameworks.

👉 Discover how top financial minds are shaping the future of digital assets today.

First Mover Advantage: Full Regulatory License in the UAE

Rifad Mahasneh, General Manager of OKX MENA, emphasized the significance of this achievement:

"We're thrilled to be the first global crypto exchange to launch with a full operating license for retail and institutional clients in the UAE. We've brought leaders and visionaries from diverse backgrounds to tonight's event to discuss the bright future of this space in the country and region and its impact on business sectors. We're deeply committed to growing locally and our product development reflects this commitment. Tonight's celebration is just the beginning of a long-term journey."

This regulatory approval allows OKX to provide a comprehensive suite of services tailored to local needs, setting a new benchmark for security, transparency, and user experience in the region.

What UAE Users Can Now Access

Residents of the UAE who complete identity verification via the OKX app or website can now enjoy seamless access to a wide array of digital asset services:

Additionally, users can now deposit and withdraw AED directly through local bank accounts—eliminating friction and reducing transaction costs. This integration streamlines the onboarding process for newcomers while empowering experienced traders with faster liquidity options.

With over 280 cryptocurrencies and 480 trading pairs, including popular combinations like BTC/AED, ETH/AED, and USDT/AED, OKX offers the broadest selection of digital assets available in the UAE market.

Enhanced Local Support and User Experience

Understanding the importance of accessibility, OKX has introduced Arabic-language customer support across both its mobile app and web platform. This ensures that users across the Arab-speaking world can navigate complex crypto transactions with confidence and clarity.

For new users, OKX is offering a welcome reward of up to 100 AED upon signing up and completing initial trades—a gesture designed to lower entry barriers and encourage exploration of decentralized finance tools.

More token listings are planned for UAE customers in the coming months, reflecting OKX’s commitment to expanding choice and utility within the local ecosystem.

👉 Start your crypto journey with one of the most trusted platforms in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is OKX licensed to operate in the UAE?

A: Yes. OKX holds a full operational license from UAE regulators, making it the first global crypto exchange authorized to serve both retail and institutional clients with AED banking integration.

Q: Can I trade using UAE Dirhams (AED)?

A: Absolutely. OKX supports direct deposits and withdrawals in AED via local bank transfers, along with spot trading pairs such as BTC/AED, ETH/AED, and USDT/AED.

Q: Are derivatives available to all users?

A: Derivatives trading is available only to qualified retail investors* and institutional clients** who meet specific risk assessment and capital requirements set by OKX and local regulations.

Q: Does OKX offer customer support in Arabic?

A: Yes. Arabic-speaking users can access dedicated customer support through the OKX app or website for assistance with account management, trading, and technical issues.

Q: How do I get started on OKX?

A: Simply download the OKX app from the App Store or Google Play, complete identity verification, deposit funds in AED, and begin trading instantly.

Q: What security measures does OKX use?

A: OKX employs military-grade encryption, cold wallet storage for 95%+ of assets, two-factor authentication (2FA), and regular third-party audits to ensure maximum protection of user funds.

Looking Ahead: Building the Digital Economy in MENA

OKX’s UAE launch isn’t just about launching a service—it’s about planting a flag in one of the world’s most dynamic tech-forward economies. By aligning with Dubai’s vision to become a global leader in blockchain adoption, OKX is helping lay the infrastructure for a more inclusive, efficient, and innovative financial future.

As blockchain continues to mature, platforms like OKX are bridging traditional finance with decentralized systems—offering users greater control, transparency, and opportunity.

👉 See what’s next in crypto innovation—join millions already building their financial future on OKX.

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