FinTech & Financial Services Regulatory 

Financial stock market numbers and city light reflection

Legal clarity for a fast-moving financial sector

FinTech is reshaping financial services, and the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern them are evolving just as quickly. We help financial institutions, FinTech innovators and regulators across the Middle East navigate this change with clarity and confidence.

Combining deep regulatory expertise with commercial understanding, we advise across the full spectrum of financial services regulation—from licensing and data protection to emerging technologies and digital assets. Drawing on our experience advising governments on FinTech legislation, we go beyond interpreting the rules to help shape practical, future-ready regulatory frameworks that support innovation, integrity and growth.


How we can help

Shaping future-ready financial regulation

We help governments and regulators design and implement FinTech legislation and regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with resilience. Combining legal, commercial and technical expertise, we deliver practical, enforceable solutions—from drafting laws and regulations to supporting implementation and compliance structures that enable a secure, future-ready financial ecosystem.

Navigating licensing and market entry

We support financial institutions and FinTech businesses through the full licensing and incorporation journey. From structuring and regulatory approvals to operational readiness, we provide end-to-end support that helps you enter and operate in the region with clarity, confidence and compliance—engaging regulators effectively and managing requirements efficiently.

Building compliant data protection frameworks

We help you design and implement data privacy frameworks aligned with global standards, including GDPR, and regional data protection laws across the Middle East. Our support spans policy development, data mapping, cross-border transfer arrangements and operational compliance—helping you manage data responsibly in a rapidly evolving regulatory environment.

Strengthening financial crime compliance

We support financial institutions and FinTech firms in meeting AML, CTF and sanctions obligations across the region. Combining regulatory expertise with practical execution, we help design, assess and enhance compliance frameworks, conduct risk assessments and implement cross-border programmes—supporting regulator engagement and building trust across your operations.

Clear regulatory insight for confident decisions

We provide strategic legal and regulatory advice that supports informed decision-making in complex environments. From regulatory assessments and readiness reviews to governance and control implementation, we deliver practical, execution-focused solutions that help you remain agile, compliant and future-ready as the financial services landscape evolves.

Our experience

BNPL Provider—Legal and regulatory advisory

Led a regional BNPL provider’s regulatory licensing across UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, supporting initial applications, compliance frameworks, and sandbox entry. We advised on AML, governance, and cross-border structuring, coordinated with regulators, and ensured alignment with evolving expectations. Our work enabled the provider’s licensing success and market leadership in regulated BNPL services across the GCC.

Crypto-asset Platform—Market-entry advisory

Acted as regulatory counsel to a leading U.S.-based FinTech firm on its proposed UAE market entry. We advised on crypto and brokerage licensing strategy, conducted cross-jurisdictional regulatory analysis, and developed tailored frameworks to align the client’s business model with UAE requirements - positioning them for regulator-ready expansion into one of the world’s most progressive virtual asset markets.

Digital Asset Foundation—Regulatory structuring

Advised on the regulatory structuring of a digital asset foundation built around decentralised governance and token-based participation. We reviewed constitutional documents, governance models, and token mechanics to align with evolving Web3 and DAO-related regulations. Our legal opinion enabled the client to refine its structure, reduce risk, and ensure regulatory readiness in a novel and complex legal landscape.

GCC Central Bank—Open banking framework

Supported a leading GCC central bank in designing its open banking framework through global benchmarking, legal gap analysis and stakeholder input – now a key pillar of the jurisdiction’s fintech agenda, driving innovation, competition and better consumer protection.

Awards and recognitions

Team

Middle East Law Awards 2025

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Individuals

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Contact us

Amir Kordvani

Amir Kordvani

Partner, Head of, PwC Legal Middle East

Lachlan Roos

Lachlan Roos

Partner, Middle East Clients & Markets, Transformation and AI leader, Tax and Legal Services, PwC Middle East

Samir Safar-Aly

Samir Safar-Aly

Director, FinTech & Financial Services, PwC Legal Middle East

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