Zhao, who was found guilty of violating US laws in November of this year, had previously been released on bail and had requested permission from the court to travel to the United Arab Emirates to be with his family. However, the court had not approved Zhao’s request. Indeed, the cryptocurrency billionaire’s second travel request was also denied. Zhao’s travel plan and destination were recorded in the Seattle court but kept confidential. The denial of the travel permit followed a decision by a magistrate judge who had previously allowed Zhao to make a short trip to the United Arab Emirates. This permission was later revoked for Zhao’s planned sentencing hearing in February.