The UAE has formally joined the OECD’s Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF); the Ministry of Finance says the UAE will roll out CARF in 2027 and begin automatic information exchange in 2028 to boost cross-border crypto tax transparency.
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UAE to implement CARF in 2027 with exchanges sharing data from 2028
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CARF enables automatic exchange of crypto tax information between participating jurisdictions to improve tax compliance.
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Over 50 jurisdictions, including Switzerland, New Zealand and Australia, have committed to CARF; South Korea and others are moving to join.
UAE CARF: UAE joins CARF for crypto tax reporting; implementation set for 2027 with data exchange in 2028 — read key dates and implications.
What is the UAE’s CARF announcement?
The UAE Ministry of Finance announced the country’s formal commitment to the OECD Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF), stating the UAE will roll out the framework in 2027 and begin automatic exchange of crypto tax data in 2028. This aligns UAE policy with international tax transparency standards.
How does CARF work?
CARF creates standardized reporting rules for crypto-asset service providers and establishes automatic exchange channels between participating tax authorities.
It requires jurisdictions to collect specified crypto transactional data and exchange it with partner countries to assist tax administration and compliance.
Why does this matter for exchanges and traders?
Front-loading compliance obligations, CARF will require exchanges, custodians and certain intermediaries to collect, verify and report user transaction details as defined by the OECD technical guidance.
Firms operating in the UAE should expect new reporting workflows, data collection requirements and secure transmission standards ahead of the 2028 exchange start date.
Public consultation and stakeholder engagement
The UAE launched a public consultation on Sept. 15 to gather feedback from exchanges, custodians, traders and advisory firms; the consultation period closes Nov. 8.
Public consultation results will inform implementing legislation and operational guidance from the UAE Ministry of Finance (UAE MOF).
Which countries are implementing CARF and what are their timelines?
Over 50 jurisdictions have committed to CARF, with varying implementation schedules. Switzerland, New Zealand, Australia and the Netherlands are among the adopters. South Korea has reported agreement to join, with its National Tax Service coordinating implementation.
| Jurisdiction | Commitment / Action | Notable timeline |
|---|---|---|
| United Arab Emirates | Committed; public consultation underway | Rollout 2027; exchanges in 2028 |
| Switzerland | Adopted bill enabling automatic exchange | Adoption announced June 6 (Swiss government) |
| South Korea | Finalized agreement to implement | Reported Sept. 2; tax authority coordinating |
Frequently Asked Questions
When will UAE firms begin reporting under CARF?
UAE firms should plan for legislative changes in 2026–2027 and for reporting systems to be active ahead of the 2028 automatic exchange start date.
Will CARF apply to all crypto transactions?
CARF targets reportable crypto-asset activities as defined by OECD guidance; exact scope will be set by each jurisdiction during implementation and through public consultation.
Key Takeaways
- Implementation timeline: UAE roll-out in 2027; data sharing starts in 2028.
- Global alignment: CARF adoption is spreading—50+ jurisdictions including Switzerland and South Korea are taking steps.
- Industry impact: Exchanges and custodians must prepare for new reporting, data collection and security requirements.
Conclusion
The UAE’s commitment to CARF marks a significant step toward global crypto tax transparency. The Ministry of Finance’s 2027 rollout and 2028 data-exchange timeline give industry participants a clear window to prepare. Expect detailed implementing rules following the public consultation and guidance from international bodies such as the OECD.
Author: COINOTAG. Published: 2025-09-22. Updated: 2025-09-22.
