The ADGM RegLab is a specially-tailored regulatory framework which provides a controlled environment for FinTech participants to develop and test innovative FinTech solutions. As the first RegLab in the region and the world’s second most active FinTech sandbox, the RegLab is designed to foster innovation within the UAE financial services market for both new market entrants and existing financial institutions.
By creating a regulated, safe environment RegLab has been designed to allow FinTech innovation to be tested without being subjected to the full suite of regulatory requirements that would otherwise apply to traditional financial services firms. The set-up will allow FinTech participants to explore and develop FinTech solutions in a risk appropriate and cost-effective environment.
The ADGM RegLab is for all participants active in the FinTech space, from startups to existing, regulated companies. To qualify, FinTech participants must demonstrate an innovative technological solution that is at the stage of development ready for testing. The solution should also contribute to the development of the financial sector in the UAE.
Why apply to join the ADGM FinTech RegLab
FinTech hub
ADGM is rated by independent reviewers as one of the best FinTech jurisdictions with a flourishing ecosystem and presence of numerous FinTech firms.
Active RegLab
ADGM FinTech RegLab is the world's second most active FinTech regulatory sandbox in the world.
Test and develop
RegLab participants have up to two years to test and develop their solution to a point where it can be commercially launched.
Bespoke regulatory requirements
Regulatory requirements are specific to participant business model and risks as they progress through different stages of development or testing.
RegLab Co-working spaces
Co-working spaces are available for RegLab firms, which give them access to the fintech innovation ecosystem in ADGM.
Low cost
The fee for participating in ADGM RegLab is low and cost effective.
Full ecosystem support
Support and mentorship from ADGM FinTech and innovation partners including financial institutions, venture capital and angel investors, accelerators, technology firms, academic institutes and professional service providers.
Scalability testing
Access to the core banking digital sandbox environment allows participants to integrate their solutions with banking data and functionality and to test them for scalability and robustness.
Other Fintech solutions
ADGM FinTech Digital Lab
The ADGM FinTech Digital Lab supports and enables the creation of APIs, System Virtual Machines, data and applications that connect legacy systems of Financial Institutions to FinTechs, more established technology providers and other relevant parties in a cost-effective and scalable manner, hosted securely on the cloud.
To promote industry adoption, interoperability, financial inclusion and convergence to higher standards, ADGM is developing tools and guidance on the standards and IT security requirements for open APIs and cloud adoption.
FinTech
Abu Dhabi has recently been recognised as the top FinTech hub in MENA region with ADGM actively championing the development of a sustainable and vibrant FinTech ecosystem, setting many 'firsts' for the MENA region, including the first FinTech Regulatory regime and the first FinTech RegLab which today is the world's second most active FinTech sandbox after London.
At ADGM we recognise the importance of technological innovation in the financial services industry. We can play a meaningful role in supporting innovation and growth in FinTech, while promoting systemic safety and consumer protection. As a centre of connectivity and located half-way between the European and Asian markets, Abu Dhabi is a crossroads of the world where ADGM's strategic partnerships with other regulators and the private sector underpin a vibrant FinTech ecosystem.
Global Financial Innovation Network
The Global Financial Innovation Network (GFIN) was formerly launched in January 2019 by an international group of financial regulators and related organisations, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This built on the FCA’s early 2018 proposal to create a global sandbox. The GFIN is a network of 29 organisations committed to supporting financial innovation in the interests of consumers.
The ADGM FinTech Digital Lab supports and enables the creation of APIs, System Virtual Machines, data and applications that connect legacy systems of Financial Institutions to FinTechs, more established technology providers and other relevant parties in a cost-effective and scalable manner, hosted securely on the cloud.
To promote industry adoption, interoperability, financial inclusion and convergence to higher standards, ADGM is developing tools and guidance on the standards and IT security requirements for open APIs and cloud adoption.
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