Bybit has appointed Derek Dai as Country Manager for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

In his role, Dai will oversee regional strategy, market expansion, regulatory engagement, institutional partnerships, and localised product development, following Bybit’s recent Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) license.

“The Middle East is emerging as one of the most important regions shaping the future of digital finance, with the UAE leading the way in building a progressive and well-regulated ecosystem,”

Dai said.

“Our priority is to deepen collaboration with financial centres such as DIFC and DMCC, strengthen the infrastructure connecting digital assets with everyday financial services, and advance tokenised real-world assets that bridge traditional finance and the digital economy.”

Bybit plans to expand AED fiat access, build partnerships with banks and payment providers, and develop Shariah-compliant products.

Bahrain will serve as one of the next key milestones in its regional expansion.

The company has also partnered with the Emirates Red Crescent during Ramadan to support the Iftar Tent initiative and engaged employees in volunteer activities.

Amid regional geopolitical tensions, Bybit has activated Business Continuity Protocols in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including daily check-ins, safety confirmations, and travel support.

“Our users in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and across the Gulf need to know one thing: Bybit is open, Bybit is liquid, and staffed around the clock,”

Dai added.

“Your funds are safe. Your access is uninterrupted.”

Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Middle East, based on image by brilian via Freepik