Is Crypto Legal in Western Sahara?

Western Sahara's legal status regarding cryptocurrency cannot be definitively established due to the disputed nature of the territory (1). The territory is claimed by Morocco, which currently occupies most of Western Sahara, while the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic claims sovereignty but controls only approximately 20-25% of the disputed area (1). Morocco has maintained a cryptocurrency ban since 2017, though the country is preparing draft legislation to regulate and legalize crypto assets (2).

Entities claiming to represent a "Central Reserve Authority of Western Sahara" have appeared online offering cryptocurrency licenses, but these have been identified by financial regulatory experts as fraudulent operations (2). The so-called authority uses questionable tactics including mass email campaigns and online chat functions to promote "crypto licenses," which legitimate regulators would issue as Virtual Asset Service Provider licenses with proper legal frameworks (2). No recognized international regulatory body acknowledges such an authority operating in Western Sahara (2).

"The Central Reserve Authority of Western Sahara appears to be yet another scam regulator designed to sell worthless licenses to unsuspecting companies and consultants. Stay away, be vigilant, and do not engage with this entity."

The United Nations considers Western Sahara a non-self-governing territory, and Morocco administers the majority of the region under its southern provinces designation (1). Morocco's central bank, Bank Al-Maghrib, is developing a legal framework for crypto assets with technical assistance from the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, though cryptocurrencies remain prohibited for commercial payments or settlements (2). Given the territorial dispute and lack of internationally recognized governance, Western Sahara has no legitimate regulatory framework for cryptocurrency operations (1)(2).

Source:
https://freemanlaw.com/cryptocurrency/western-sahara-and-cryptocurrency/
https://www.zitadelleag.com/news/scam-alert-the-so-called-central-reserve-authority-of-western-sahara

Last updated: 19-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.