Understanding the OKX Dubai Code of Conduct
As a licensed Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) under the Dubai Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA), OKX Middle East FinTech FZE ("OKX Dubai") operates with full regulatory compliance to ensure transparency, fairness, and security across its digital asset exchange platform. This Code of Conduct outlines the standards expected from all users—referred to as Participants—who access and engage with the OKX Dubai trading venue.
By agreeing to the OKX Dubai Terms of Service, every Participant implicitly accepts this Code of Conduct. It applies universally to all individuals and entities using the exchange, reinforcing a trustworthy environment for virtual asset trading in the Middle East.
👉 Discover how OKX Dubai ensures secure and compliant trading for all users.
Core Principles and Regulatory Framework
The foundation of this Code lies in adherence to Applicable Law, the VARA Rulebook, and the platform’s own Terms of Service. These frameworks collectively define acceptable behavior and establish consequences for violations.
OKX Dubai holds an official Exchange License from VARA, empowering it to provide regulated exchange services. As such, it is obligated to enforce strict conduct rules that prevent market abuse, protect user integrity, and support ongoing regulatory supervision.
Key definitions central to understanding this policy include:
- Exchange: The OKX Dubai digital platform where Participants buy, sell, and trade Virtual Assets.
- Participants: Clients of OKX Dubai who use the Exchange for trading activities.
- Virtual Assets: Digital representations of value that can be traded or used for investment, payment, or exchange purposes—including Virtual Tokens as defined by VARA.
- Prohibited Behaviour: Actions explicitly banned under Clause 2 of this Code.
These terms are further detailed in Schedule 1 and serve as reference points throughout enforcement and compliance processes.
Prohibited Behaviors on the Exchange
All Participants are fully responsible for their actions while using the OKX Dubai platform. Any activity that breaches the Terms of Service, VARA regulations, or UAE Applicable Laws is strictly forbidden.
Examples of prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:
- Market Manipulation: Engaging in deceptive practices designed to distort price movements or create false appearances of trading volume.
- Insider Dealing: Trading based on non-public, material information that could influence market decisions.
- Unlawful Disclosure: Releasing confidential or sensitive data in violation of legal or contractual obligations.
- Cybersecurity Threats: Distributing malicious software or launching attacks—such as distributed denial-of-service (DDoS)—against OKX Dubai systems.
- Abusive Conduct: Any behavior reasonably deemed harmful, disruptive, or exploitative by OKX Dubai.
These restrictions are in place to safeguard market integrity and user trust. Violations may trigger immediate disciplinary action.
Disciplinary Measures for Non-Compliance
OKX Dubai reserves the right to take swift and decisive action against any Participant suspected of engaging in Prohibited Behaviour. The platform has broad authority to implement corrective and punitive measures, including:
- Issuing formal warnings or reprimands
- Mandating compliance training
- Imposing trading conditions or temporary restrictions
- Enforcing trading prohibitions or full suspensions
- Requiring restitution or applying contractual penalties
- Canceling active client orders
- Conducting mandatory compliance audits
- Reporting incidents to VARA
- Making criminal referrals when warranted
Additionally, VARA retains independent authority to pursue further remedies and may delegate enforcement powers to OKX Dubai with written consent.
These measures ensure that misconduct is addressed promptly and proportionally, maintaining a fair and stable trading ecosystem.
Investigation Procedures
When there is reasonable suspicion of a breach—whether of the Terms of Service, VARA Rulebook, Applicable Law, or this Code—OKX Dubai initiates a comprehensive investigation.
During this process:
- Participants must fully cooperate by providing requested documents, information, and system access.
- Upon conclusion, OKX Dubai issues a formal notice outlining findings and the rationale behind any decisions made.
Transparency and due process are prioritized to ensure fairness while upholding regulatory responsibilities.
👉 Learn how OKX Dubai investigates and resolves compliance concerns efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who does this Code of Conduct apply to?
A: It applies to all Participants—clients who access or use the OKX Dubai Exchange platform—regardless of location or account type.
Q: What constitutes Market Manipulation under this policy?
A: Market Manipulation follows the definition in the VARA Rulebook and includes spoofing, wash trading, pump-and-dump schemes, and other artificial price-influencing tactics.
Q: Can OKX Dubai share my data with regulators?
A: Yes. Participants waive confidentiality rights regarding information OKX Dubai is required to disclose to VARA upon request, including investigation reports and evidence.
Q: How will I be notified if this Code changes?
A: OKX Dubai provides a 10-day notice before amendments take effect. Updated versions are published directly on the official website.
Q: What records does OKX Dubai keep, and for how long?
A: All transaction records, customer agreements, audit logs, due diligence files, and service-related documentation are retained for at least eight (8) years—or longer if required by regulators.
Q: Who approves updates to this Code?
A: The local Head of Compliance or MLRO reviews and documents changes, which must then be approved by the local Board of Directors.
Reporting and Regulatory Disclosure
OKX Dubai is committed to full cooperation with VARA. The platform will promptly provide any requested items, documents, or information related to this Code, including:
- Investigation reports
- Evidence collected during compliance reviews
- Records of disciplinary actions taken
Participants acknowledge and consent to these disclosures, waiving any claim of confidentiality over information shared with VARA in fulfillment of regulatory duties.
Policy Maintenance and Amendments
To remain aligned with evolving regulations and industry standards, OKX Dubai regularly reviews and updates this Code of Conduct.
Updates are managed by the local Head of Compliance / MLRO, documented formally, and approved by the local Board. Once published on the OKX Dubai website, amendments take effect immediately unless otherwise stated.
Participants receive at least 10 days’ notice prior to implementation of significant changes, ensuring adequate time to review and adapt to new requirements.
👉 Stay ahead with real-time updates on regulatory policies affecting your trades.
Record Retention Policy
In compliance with regulatory expectations, OKX Dubai maintains comprehensive records related to:
- Customer agreements and contracts
- Transaction histories
- Trading instructions
- Custody and staking services
- Due diligence and audit trails
All such records are securely stored for a minimum of eight (8) years, or longer if mandated by applicable authorities. This ensures traceability, supports audits, and strengthens accountability across all operations.
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