ADGM consults on new oversight framework for crypto mining

The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has opened a consultation on a proposed policy framework for the crypto mining industry, as it looks to introduce clearer standards for how mining businesses operate within the financial free zone.

The consultation has been issued by the ADGM Registration Authority and seeks feedback on draft guidance covering commercial licencing, responsible operations, ongoing compliance obligations and supervisory oversight for crypto mining firms. Stakeholders have until 20 March 2026 to submit their responses.

Mining falls under commercial licencing regime

While crypto mining is not treated as a regulated financial service in the ADGM, the Registration Authority has confirmed that it is subject to its commercial licencing regime. Any entity carrying out crypto mining activities from the ADGM must therefore secure and maintain the relevant approval from the authority.

The discussion paper explains how the Registration Authority plans to regulate crypto mining as a commercial activity rather than a financial one. It sets out expectations around corporate structure, governance and internal controls, with the aim of ensuring that mining firms operate in a responsible and transparent manner.

Proposed obligations for ongoing compliance

The draft guidance introduces a number of ongoing obligations for crypto miners once licenced. These include requirements around transparency, disclosure and record keeping.

One of the key proposals involves the disclosure of on-chain addresses used to receive mining rewards. The Registration Authority has indicated that this would support effective oversight and monitoring of mining activities. Firms would also be expected to maintain detailed records relating to their operations and make them available to the authority when required.

The paper also highlights the importance of strong cybersecurity measures. Mining firms would need to demonstrate that they can protect their systems and infrastructure from cyber threats and ensure continuity of operations in the event of technical failures or external disruptions.

Emphasis on operational resilience

Operational resilience forms a central part of the proposed framework. The Registration Authority expects crypto miners to have systems and controls that can withstand operational stress, including power outages, system failures and cyber incidents.

The guidance outlines expectations around risk management, internal policies and incident response planning. These measures are intended to reduce operational risks that could impact both the business and the wider digital asset ecosystem.

Managing overseas mining operations

Given that crypto mining often involves infrastructure spread across several countries, the discussion paper also focuses on cross-border operations. The Registration Authority has stated that crypto mining groups headquartered in the ADGM are expected to manage their overseas activities in line with ADGM standards.

This means that governance, cybersecurity and compliance requirements should apply across the entire group, not just to the entity based in the ADGM. The authority has signalled that it will take a group-wide view when supervising mining businesses with international operations.

Call for industry feedback

The Registration Authority has encouraged industry participants to engage with the consultation and provide practical feedback on the proposed measures. Legal and regulatory advisers have said the consultation offers mining firms a chance to assess how prepared they are for tighter oversight.

What happens next

The consultation will remain open until 20 March 2026. After reviewing the responses, the Registration Authority is expected to refine and finalise its guidance for the crypto mining sector.