# Victoria Wells > Victoria leads Ape Law’s Web3 legal practice, managing licensing, tokenization and regulatory matters across ADGM, VARA and global frameworks. - Role: Principal & Co-Founder - Canonical profile: [https://ape.law/blog/authors/victoria-wells](https://ape.law/blog/authors/victoria-wells) - Updated: 2026-09-21 ## Background Victoria Wells is Principal and Co-Founder of Ape Law, a UAE-based law firm working with tokenization, crypto and Web3 businesses worldwide. Her work covers real-world assets, token launches, digital-asset licensing, funds and cross-border structures. Victoria served as Chief Legal Officer at Illuvium while also co-founding Ape Law. She led a VARA application covering exchange, broker-dealer, custody and asset management activities, and helped the DAO secure banking in the UAE. She previously founded Alt Law in Australia. Her published work includes the first-ever ADGM VC fund manager licence permitting investment into virtual assets, SAFTs, SAFEs and token warrants, alongside token raises, market-entry strategies and urgent restructuring. Her professional background also includes serving as Vice President of LawFi DAO and membership of LexDAO and the MENA Fintech Association. ## Areas of focus - RWA tokenization - Token launches - Digital-asset licensing - Crypto fund structures - Cross-border legal strategy - Founder disputes ## Experience - Principal & Co-Founder of Ape Law - Former Chief Legal Officer at Illuvium - Founder of Alt Law in Australia - Tokenization, licensing and cross-border legal work - Vice President of LawFi DAO - Membership of LexDAO and the MENA Fintech Association ## Published work - [How to Choose a Crypto Lawyer in Dubai: Criteria That Actually Distinguish One From Another](https://ape.law/blog/do-you-need-crypto-lawyer-dubai/index.md): How to choose a crypto lawyer in Dubai: what separates regulatory counsel from formation agents, which credentials to verify, and what to ask first. - [Fractional GC vs In-House Counsel for a Crypto Company: How the Two Models Compare](https://ape.law/blog/fractional-gc-vs-in-house-counsel-crypto/index.md): Fractional general counsel or an in-house hire for a crypto company: how the two models compare on cost, coverage, continuity and regulatory capability. - [RWA Tokenization Platform Licensing in the UAE: Issuing Your Own Asset vs Operating for Others](https://ape.law/blog/rwa-tokenization/index.md): Tokenization platform licensing in the UAE depends on whether you issue your own asset or operate for others. Requirements for both models explained. - [ADGM SPV Setup for Crypto and Tokenization Projects: What It Does and What It Does Not](https://ape.law/blog/adgm-spv/index.md): What an ADGM SPV setup involves for crypto and tokenization projects: what the vehicle does, what it cannot do, and how SPVs are used as token issuers. - [VARA License Cost in Dubai: Full 2026 Fee Breakdown](https://ape.law/blog/vara-license-cost/index.md): VARA license cost in Dubai broken down by activity category: application fees, annual supervision fees, and the compliance costs that follow. - [UAE Crypto Business Bank Account: What Banks Require Before Opening](https://ape.law/blog/uae-crypto-business-bank-account-requirements/index.md): What UAE banks require before opening a crypto business account: corporate documents, license evidence, source of funds, and beneficial ownership. - [What Custodians Require Before Supporting a Tokenized Fund](https://ape.law/blog/tokenized-fund-custodian-requirements/index.md): Tokenized fund custody requirements explained: legal opinions, segregation and title, key management, and where custodian review most often stalls. - [DeFi Legal Advisory in the UAE: Regulatory Risks, Compliance Gaps, and What Founders Need to Know](https://ape.law/blog/defi-legal-advisory-uae/index.md): DeFi legal advisory for UAE founders. Federal Decree-Law No. 6 of 2025 brings DeFi protocols under CBUAE supervision. Penalties up to AED 1 billion. Compliance deadline: September 2026. VARA, ADGM, DIFC licensing requirements, AML/CFT obligations, and entity structuring strategies explained. - [The UAE Web3 Regulatory Handbook 2026: Every Jurisdiction, License, and Cost Explained](https://ape.law/blog/uae-crypto-license-guide/index.md): Compare VARA, ADGM, DIFC, and DMCC crypto licenses side by side. Real costs, timelines, capital requirements, and hidden fees across every UAE jurisdiction. - [Stablecoin License Costs in UAE: VARA, ADGM & CBUAE - The Real Numbers](https://ape.law/blog/stablecoin-license-costs-uae/index.md): Compare VARA, ADGM and CBUAE stablecoin licensing: fees, capital requirements, approval times and compliance differences to pick the right UAE regime. - [Stablecoin Regulatory Compliance Checklist 2026: UAE Licensing, Reserves & AML Requirements](https://ape.law/blog/stablecoin-regulatory-compliance-checklist/index.md): Issuers must meet strict 1:1 reserve, licensing, AML/KYC, audit and cybersecurity rules to operate stablecoins legally in the UAE and major markets. - [ADGM Disclosure Rules for Tokenized Securities](https://ape.law/blog/adgm-disclosure-rules-tokenized-securities/index.md): Clear summary of ADGM disclosure rules for tokenized securities: prospectus and ongoing reporting, technical and custody disclosures, and June 2025 updates. - [Tokenized Real Estate Under VARA: Complete Compliance Checklist 2026](https://ape.law/blog/vara-tokenized-compliance/index.md): Navigate VARA compliance for tokenized real estate in Dubai. Complete 2025 guide covering licensing, AML/CFT, investor rights & DLD integration. - [Tokenized Fund Regulations: EU vs. UAE – Which Jurisdiction Will Make or Break Your Fund?](https://ape.law/blog/eu-vs-uae-tokenized-fund/index.md): EU MiCA vs UAE regulations for tokenized funds: Speed (3-6 vs 9-12 months), costs, compliance, custody requirements, and which jurisdiction fits your fund. - [ADGM Virtual Asset Rulebook: What to Know](https://ape.law/blog/adgm-what-to-know/index.md): ADGM Virtual Asset Rulebook explained: Accepted Virtual Assets criteria, prohibited tokens, 2025 self-assessment updates, and VASP compliance requirements. - [EU vs UAE Crypto Regulations: Key Differences](https://ape.law/blog/eu-vs-uae/index.md): EU MiCA vs UAE crypto regulations compared: Licensing (3-6 vs 6-12 weeks), costs (€200K vs AED 500K), compliance differences, and choosing your jurisdiction. - [How to Structure a DAO with UAE Operations: Complete Legal Guide](https://ape.law/blog/structure-dao/index.md): Complete guide to structuring DAOs with UAE operations. Explore RAK DARe, ADGM frameworks, hybrid models, and legal compliance for decentralized organizations. - [DIFC License Cost Detailed Breakdown](https://ape.law/blog/difc-license-cost/index.md): DIFC license cost breakdown: AED 65K-100K+ for non-regulated firms, AED 250K-900K+ for financial entities. Full pricing guide for UAE crypto businesses. - [What is a DIFC Foundation + How to Set Up DIFC Foundations?](https://ape.law/blog/difc-foundation/index.md): Discover DIFC Foundations for asset protection, succession planning, and tax-neutral wealth management. Complete setup guide for this versatile legal structure. - [How to Launch an ICO in the UAE in 8 Steps](https://ape.law/blog/uae-ico/index.md): Step-by-step guide to launching an ICO in the UAE. Navigate SCA, VARA, and ADGM regulations, tokenomics, compliance, and legal requirements for success. - [DFSA Regulations and Legal Framework](https://ape.law/blog/dfsa-regulations/index.md): Comprehensive guide to DFSA regulations and legal framework in DIFC. Learn licensing requirements, rulebook structure, and compliance for financial firms in UAE. - [9 Tips on How to Use DLT](https://ape.law/blog/dlt/index.md): 9 practical tips for using distributed ledger technology (DLT) in trading, tokenization, settlement, and compliance. Transform your crypto business operations. - [15 Tips for Security Token Investment](https://ape.law/blog/security-token/index.md): 15 expert tips for security token investment. Learn about tokenized assets, regulatory compliance, liquidity, and the future of digital securities investing. - [Detailed Guide on DMCC Crypto License Cost](https://ape.law/blog/dmcc-crypto-license-cost/index.md): DMCC crypto license cost guide: Starting from AED 20K setup, AED 50K capital requirement. Full breakdown of fees, benefits, and licensing process in Dubai. - [Detailed Guide on VARA Regulations and Legal Framework](https://ape.law/blog/vara-regulations/index.md): VARA regulations explained: Legal framework, licensing process, and compliance requirements for virtual asset businesses operating in Dubai mainland and free zones. - [5 ADGM License Categories and Their Advantages](https://ape.law/blog/adgm-license-categories/index.md): 5 ADGM license categories explained: Banking, trading, asset management, fintech advisory, and Islamic finance. Choose the right license for your UAE business. - [Detailed Guide on ADGM Activity List](https://ape.law/blog/adgm-activity-list/index.md): Complete guide to ADGM activity list covering financial, non-financial, and retail licenses. Learn permitted activities and licensing requirements in Abu Dhabi. - [Compliant Virtual Asset Investing in the UAE: 8 Legal Tips](https://ape.law/blog/virtual-assets/index.md): Expert legal guidance on virtual assets regulation in the UAE. Navigate crypto and Web3 compliance with specialized legal solutions from Ape Law. - [8 Legal Insights for Crypto Trading in the UAE](https://ape.law/blog/crypto-trading-in-uae/index.md): 8 expert legal insights for crypto trading in the UAE. Navigate licensing, compliance, and regulatory requirements with professional Web3 legal guidance. - [How to Get the FSRA Abu Dhabi License](https://ape.law/blog/fsra-abu-dhabi/index.md): Complete guide to obtaining an FSRA Abu Dhabi license. Learn licensing requirements, application process, and regulatory framework for virtual asset businesses. - [Regulatory Framework of Crypto Exchange UAE](https://ape.law/blog/crypto-exchange-uae/index.md): UAE crypto exchange regulatory framework explained. Learn licensing requirements, compliance obligations, and how to set up a crypto exchange business legally. - [Unpacking ADGM's New Token Issuance Guidance](https://ape.law/blog/adgm-new-law-guidance-4/index.md): ADGM's new token issuance guidance explained. Comprehensive analysis of listing requirements, eligibility criteria, and regulatory framework for security tokens. - [Benefits of DIFC FinTech Hive License](https://ape.law/blog/difc-fintech-hive/index.md): Benefits of DIFC FinTech Hive license for startups. Access funding, mentorship, and regulatory support in Dubai's premier fintech innovation ecosystem. - [How to Get ADGM Abu Dhabi License in 9 Steps](https://ape.law/blog/adgm-abu-dhabi/index.md): How to get an ADGM Abu Dhabi license in 9 steps. Complete guide to setup, benefits, licensing categories, and regulatory requirements for crypto businesses. - [How to Get DIFC Innovation Hub License in UAE in 8 Simple Steps](https://ape.law/blog/difc-innovation-hub/index.md): Get a DIFC Innovation Hub license in 8 steps. Access Dubai's tech ecosystem, 0% tax benefits, and regulatory support for startups and innovation firms. - [How to Obtain a DIFC Crypto License in 8 Simple Steps](https://ape.law/blog/difc-crypto-license/index.md): How to obtain a DIFC crypto license in 8 steps. Expert guide to licensing, compliance, and setting up a regulated crypto business in Dubai's financial center. - [6 Best Practices for Real Estate Tokenization in UAE](https://ape.law/blog/real-estate-tokenization/index.md): 6 best practices for real estate tokenization in UAE. Learn regulations, costs, and benefits of tokenizing property with expert guidance from Dubai lawyers. - [How to Choose a DMCC Crypto License](https://ape.law/blog/dmcc-crypto-license/index.md): Complete guide to choosing a DMCC crypto license in 8 steps. Learn requirements, costs from $20k, tax benefits, and free zone advantages for your business. - [How to Get VASP in UAE for Your Web3 Business](https://ape.law/blog/vasps/index.md): How to get VASP license in UAE for Web3 businesses. Comprehensive guide to VARA requirements, licensing process, and compliance for virtual asset providers. - [How to Get the VARA UAE License for Web3 Businesses](https://ape.law/blog/vara-uae/index.md): Get your VARA UAE license for Web3 businesses. Complete guide covering regulations, compliance, licensing process, and benefits of Dubai's crypto framework. - [The Ultimate Guide on Legal Landscape for UAE Crypto](https://ape.law/blog/uae-crypto/index.md): Ultimate guide to UAE crypto legal landscape. Learn regulations, tax exemptions, licensing requirements, and compliance from VARA, SCA, DFSA, and ADGM. - [How to Start a Web3 Dubai Business in 7 Simple Steps](https://ape.law/blog/web3-dubai/index.md): Start your Web3 Dubai business in 7 steps. Complete guide covering VARA licensing, DIFC framework, compliance, legal risks, and top Web3 companies in Dubai. - [Chainflip vs. THORChain: One Blocked Billions in Laundered Funds, The Other Profited From It](https://ape.law/blog/chainflip/index.md): Chainflip blocked $1.5B in laundered ByBit hack funds while THORChain profited from it. Compare their responses and learn DeFi protocol responsibilities. - [Bybit Hack: Crisis Response, Lessons for Founders and Industry Takeaways](https://ape.law/blog/bybit-hack/index.md): ByBit hack: $1.5B stolen by North Korea's Lazarus Group. Crisis response lessons for founders covering communications, security, and capital reserves. - [5 Hard Truths About Setting Up a Crypto Business in the UAE](https://ape.law/blog/5-truths/index.md): 5 hard truths about setting up crypto businesses in UAE: banking challenges, jurisdiction competition, local talent, migration planning, and real costs. - [US CBDC Projects In Memoriam](https://ape.law/blog/us-cbdcs/index.md): Trump's Executive Order terminates US CBDC projects. Explore OpenCBDC, Project Cedar, Project Agorá and other initiatives affected by the 2025 ban. - [Trump’s Executive Order Will Shake Up Crypto Regulation Globally](https://ape.law/blog/executive-order-jan-2025/index.md): Trump's crypto Executive Order reshapes global regulation, legalizes digital assets, bans CBDCs, and promotes USD stablecoins worldwide. Game-changer. - [UAE’s New Token Laws: New Rules for Tokenised Securities and Commodities](https://ape.law/blog/uae-securities/index.md): UAE's SCA Directive introduces new regulations for tokenized securities and commodities. Essential insights for VASPs, exchanges, and token issuers. - [Future-Proofing Digital Asset Regulations: ADGM’s Latest Innovations](https://ape.law/blog/future-proofing-digital-asset-regulations-adgm-s-latest-innovations/index.md): ADGM proposes revolutionary updates: regulated staking, margin trading, self-certification for tokens, and reduced fees for virtual asset businesses. - [Is Fair Launch the New Meta?](https://ape.law/blog/fair-launch/index.md): Fair token launches eliminate VC advantages and insider deals. Discover why community-driven distribution builds trust and prevents pump-and-dump schemes. - [HyperLiquid: The DeFi Powerhouse Redefining Onchain Trading & More](https://ape.law/blog/hyperliquid/index.md): Hyperliquid's L1 blockchain and DEX revolutionize DeFi with onchain order books, community-first ethos, and HYPE token's stellar performance explained. - [Crypto's New Dawn: How Trump's Pro-Crypto Era is going to be a game changer](https://ape.law/blog/crypto-new-dawn/index.md): Trump's pro-crypto administration signals a new era. Legal framework coming July 2025. David Sacks appointed crypto czar. Game on for crypto businesses. - [Build an Ark? INFO 225 Receives a Facelift. Is It Time to Leave?](https://ape.law/blog/info-225/index.md): ASIC updates INFO 225 for crypto regulation. New guidance on digital assets, financial products, stablecoins, and exchange licensing requirements. - [Coinbase CEO to Law Firms - You can’t serve two masters in Crypto](https://ape.law/blog/coinbase-ceo-rejects-dual-masters/index.md): Coinbase CEO warns law firms: choose crypto or regulators. You can't serve two masters. Major implications for legal representation in web3. - [Nike’s M&A fumble - RTFKT is no more](https://ape.law/blog/nike-fumble/index.md): Nike shuts down RTFKT after $1B acquisition. Lessons from the NFT pioneer's closure for web3 M&A deals and corporate integration strategies.