Review our top 10 list of the most trustworthy and regulated online brokers in the UAE. We tested with real money accounts and compared their key criteria.
Choosing an online broker in the UAE can be challenging, as there are many options to consider. Finding a broker that is both safe and matches your investment goals requires careful research and consideration.
Evaluating brokers, comparing their features, and ensuring they are properly regulated are important steps to ensure you select a trustworthy and high-quality platform.
To make it simple to choose an online broker, we selected a list of the top 10 brokers and what types of trading they are best for, followed by feature comparisons, reviews and frequently asked questions.
Best online brokers in UAE
1
eToro 4.9 Your capital is at risk.
Best for social and copy trading, commission free stock and ETF trading.
2
AvaTrade 4.9 Your capital is at risk.
Best for forex and CFD trading beginners, great research tools, fast account opening.
3
Interactive Brokers 4.9 Your capital is at risk.
Ideal for professional traders and active investors, excellent for stocks and ETFs.
6
ActivTrades 4.5 Your capital is at risk.
Best for CFD trading on indices and stocks. Low trading fees. Easy account opening
7
Trading 212 4.3 Your capital is at risk.
Best customer support. Commission-free stock and ETF trading. Low trading fees.
8
OANDA 4.2 Your capital is at risk.
Best for forex and currency trading specialists. Great trading tools. Fast account opening.
Safety and regulation overview in UAE
The UAE has a robust regulatory framework to ensure fairness, transparency, and investor protection in stock trading, creating a secure environment for investors. Key regulatory bodies include:
Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA): The SCA is the primary regulatory body for securities trading in the UAE. It oversees stock exchanges, brokers, and investment funds, ensuring compliance with local laws and protecting investors from fraud. The SCA mandates brokers to maintain high operational and reporting standards.
Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA): The DFSA regulates financial services in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). It ensures that brokers and financial institutions adhere to stringent standards for transparency, risk management, and investor protection.
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA): The FSRA governs financial activities within the ADGM, providing a robust framework for stock trading and investment services. It emphasizes market integrity and investor protection.
Central bank of the UAE: The Central Bank regulates banking and financial activities to maintain the overall stability of the UAE financial system. It also plays a role in ensuring that brokers operating in the UAE comply with capital adequacy and anti-money laundering regulations.
Investor protection mechanisms: While the UAE does not have an investor protection fund like the SIPC in the U.S., regulations under the SCA, DFSA, and FSRA ensure client funds are segregated from brokers’ operational funds, reducing the risk of mismanagement.
Tier-1 International Regulators
For UAE investors considering international brokers, working with entities regulated by Tier-1 regulators ensures additional security and transparency. Examples include:
- Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) (USA): Sets rigorous standards for financial transparency and investor protection, making it a trusted regulator for brokers offering services globally.
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) (UK): Enforces stringent rules for client fund segregation, market practices, and operational integrity.
- Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC): Ensures high standards of operational transparency and investor safeguards for brokers.
- Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC): Commonly regulates international brokers serving UAE clients, with protections like the Investor Compensation Fund.
Safety and regulation comparison for top brokers
Here are some key areas that determine how trustworthy a broker is: who they’re top tier regulators are, investor protection they provide, and if they have any history of misconduct, or scandals. Take a look at the table below where we break down this information for you.
| Broker Name | ||
|---|---|---|
| eToro | ||
| AvaTrade | ||
| Interactive Brokers | ||
| Pepperstone | ||
| Saxo Bank | ||
| ActivTrades | ||
| Trading 212 | ||
| OANDA | ||
| XTB | ||
| Sarwa |
OANDA divisions vary; check which applies. See OANDA Divisions. Spreads differ by division/account.
Fees compared
Fees of selected platforms are compared in the table below. eToro has some of the lowest overall fees across all respective categories, Saxo Bank had the highest.
| Broker Name | ||
|---|---|---|
| eToro | ||
| AvaTrade | ||
| Interactive Brokers | ||
| Pepperstone | ||
| Saxo Bank | ||
| ActivTrades | ||
| Trading 212 | ||
| OANDA | ||
| XTB | ||
| Sarwa |
OANDA divisions vary; check which applies. See OANDA Divisions. Spreads differ by division/account.
Non-trading fees compared
Non-trading fees such as account, deposit and withdrawal fees are compared in the table below. eToro has no account maintenance fees or deposit fees, AVAtrade has a high inactivity fee for 3 months of inactivity.
| Broker Name | ||
|---|---|---|
| eToro | ||
| AvaTrade | ||
| Interactive Brokers | ||
| Pepperstone | ||
| Saxo Bank | ||
| ActivTrades | ||
| Trading 212 | ||
| OANDA | ||
| XTB | ||
| Sarwa |
OANDA divisions vary; check which applies. See OANDA Divisions. Spreads differ by division/account.
Minimum deposit, deposit methods and account opening compared
Minimum deposit, deposit method, how fast it takes to open an account, and other useful information of selected platforms are compared in the table below. eToro has a $100 minimum deposit for UAE clients, and bank transfers are mostly available for UAE traders across all brokers.
| Broker Name | ||
|---|---|---|
| eToro | ||
| AvaTrade | ||
| Interactive Brokers | ||
| Pepperstone | ||
| Saxo Bank | ||
| ActivTrades | ||
| Trading 212 | ||
| OANDA | ||
| XTB | ||
| Sarwa |
OANDA divisions vary; check which applies. See OANDA Divisions. Spreads differ by division/account.
Mobile, desktop and web trading platforms compared
Trading platforms are compared in the table below. Interactive brokers has the most comprehensive trading platform compared to the other brokers we picked, Saxo Bank has a very intuitive mobile app represented by our score for them.
| Broker Name | ||
|---|---|---|
| eToro | ||
| AvaTrade | ||
| Interactive Brokers | ||
| Pepperstone | ||
| Saxo Bank | ||
| ActivTrades | ||
| Trading 212 | ||
| OANDA | ||
| XTB | ||
| Sarwa |
OANDA divisions vary; check which applies. See OANDA Divisions. Spreads differ by division/account.
Product selection, markets and financial assets compared
Available financial products are compared in the table below. Interactive Brokers has access to every asset type in our selection.
| Broker Name | ||
|---|---|---|
| eToro | ||
| AvaTrade | ||
| Interactive Brokers | ||
| Pepperstone | ||
| Saxo Bank | ||
| ActivTrades | ||
| Trading 212 | ||
| OANDA | ||
| XTB | ||
| Sarwa |
OANDA divisions vary; check which applies. See OANDA Divisions. Spreads differ by division/account.
User base of top online brokers in UAE compared
The number of clients per broker are compared in the table below. eToro currently has the most recorded active users from our selection.
| Broker Name | |
|---|---|
| eToro | |
| AvaTrade | |
| Interactive Brokers | |
| Pepperstone | |
| Saxo Bank | |
| ActivTrades | |
| Trading 212 | |
| OANDA | |
| XTB | |
| Sarwa |
Top online brokers in UAE reviewed
1. eToro – Best for beginners. Great trading fees. Social trading. Copy trading.
Min Deposit: $100
Overall fee class: Low
Time to open account: 1 day
Demo account: Yes
51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Traders interested in social trading and zero-commission stock trading
Key points:
- Trade global stocks, ETFs, and assets from major markets like NASDAQ and NYSE
- Only broker with local access to UAE stocks via ADX
- In-principle approval by Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) under FSRA; regulated by FCA, CySEC, ASIC
- Sharia-compliant Islamic trading accounts with interest-free options
- CopyTrader feature to replicate top global investors’ strategies
- Arabic-language customer support for easy communication
Pros:
- Access to over 3,500+ stocks across 17 global markets
- Easy to use trading interface
- Great mobile trading app and platforms
- Industry-leading social/copy trading app
- Responsive customer support with Arabic option
Cons:
- No AED support for deposits or withdrawals, leading to currency conversion fees
- Limited advanced trading tools for professional traders
51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
2. AvaTrade – Best for forex and CFD trading beginners, great research tools, fast account opening.
Min Deposit: $100
Overall fee class: Average
Time to open account: 1-3 days
Demo account: Yes
Best for forex and CFD trading beginners
Key points:
- Trade Forex, CFDs, and cryptocurrencies across global markets
- Regulated by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) under FSRA
- Offers Sharia-compliant Islamic trading accounts with interest-free options
- Advanced trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
- Arabic-language customer support available for easy assistance
Pros:
- Wide range of Forex pairs and CFDs available for trading
- Supports MetaTrader platforms with advanced tools and features
- Islamic account options for Sharia-compliant trading
- User-friendly mobile trading app
- Arabic-language customer support for UAE clients
Cons:
- Limited access to individual stocks and ETFs
- No AED support for deposits and withdrawals, causing conversion fees
- Higher fees on inactive accounts
71% of retail CFD accounts lose money
3. Interactive Brokers – Best choice of stocks. Professional trading platform. Very good trading fees.
Min Deposit: $0
Overall fee class: Low-Average
Time to open account: 1-3 days
Demo account: Yes
Traders looking for broad market access and a professional trading environment
Key points:
- Global market access across 150+ markets in 33 countries
- Multi-currency accounts with AED base currency support
- Advanced risk management and portfolio tools
- Competitive pricing for high-volume traders
- Regulated by SEC, FCA, ASIC, and others
Pros:
- Best market coverage in the industry with 80,000+ stocks
- Intuitive mobile trading app
- Day trading, scalping, algorithmic, and automated trading allowed
- Compatible features for casual and professional traders
- Responsive customer support
Cons:
- Limited deposit options (bank transfer only for UAE)
63.3% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with IBKR.
4. Pepperstone – Best for Forex, CFDs and Spread Betting (UK only).
Min Deposit: $0
Overall fee class: Low
Time to open account: 1-2 days
Demo account: Yes
Forex trading with low spreads
Key points:
- Specializes in Forex and CFD trading with access to global markets
- Regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA)
- Offers Sharia-compliant Islamic trading accounts with interest-free options
- Advanced trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and cTrader
- Arabic-language customer support tailored for UAE clients
Pros:
- Tight spreads and competitive fees on Forex trading
- Supports MT4, MT5, and cTrader platforms with advanced trading tools
- Fast execution speeds suitable for scalping and automated trading
- Sharia-compliant Islamic accounts available
- Arabic-language customer service for regional support
Cons:
- Limited access to individual stocks and ETFs
- No AED support for deposits and withdrawals, leading to conversion fees
- Primarily focused on Forex and CFDs, lacking variety in other asset classes
74-89% of retail CFD accounts lose money
5. Saxo Bank – Best for professionals. Great research tools. Great choice of stocks.
Min Deposit: $5000
Overall fee class: Average-High
Time to open account: 1-2 days
Demo account: Yes
69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
Traders looking for a great trading platform and excellent research
Key points:
- Access to 23,000+ stocks, 9,000+ CFDs
- Low stock fees (from $0.001/share for active traders)
- Advanced orders (market, limit, stop)
- Stock tools (watchlists, screeners, alerts)
- Research tools (ideas, screeners, indicators)
- Fast execution (<30ms)
- Education (videos, analysis, podcasts)
- Licensed by Central Bank of UAE (rep office)
Pros:
- Top market coverage
- Customizable SaxoTraderGo
- Advanced orders, protection
- Easy mobile app
- Algo, day trading allowed
Cons:
- High min deposit for UAE
- Setup takes time
69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.
6. ActivTrades – Best for CFD trading on indices and stocks. Low trading fees. Easy account opening.
Min Deposit: $0
Overall fee class: Average
Time to open account: 1 day
Demo account: Yes
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 83% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Copy Traders, Social Traders, UK Traders
Key points:
- Specializes in Forex and CFD trading across global markets
- Regulated by the Securities Commission of The Bahamas (SCB) and Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK
- No local UAE regulation under DFSA or ADGM
- Offers Sharia-compliant Islamic trading accounts with interest-free options
- Supports advanced platforms: MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and ActivTrader
- Arabic-language customer support available for UAE clients
Pros:
- Tight spreads and competitive trading fees
- Supports MT4, MT5, and ActivTrader platforms with advanced features
- Sharia-compliant Islamic accounts are available
- User-friendly interface and reliable mobile app
- Arabic-language customer support for regional clients
Cons:
- No local regulation under DFSA or ADGM for UAE clients
- Limited access to individual stocks and ETFs
- No AED support for deposits and withdrawals, leading to conversion fees
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 83% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
7. Trading 212 – Best customer support. Commission-free stock and ETF trading. Low trading fees.
Min Deposit: $0
Overall fee class: Low
Time to open account: 1 day
Demo account: Yes
Long-Term Traders, Passive Investors, Casual Traders
Key points:
- Primarily focuses on stocks, ETFs, and CFDs trading
- Not directly regulated in the UAE under DFSA or ADGM
- No Sharia-compliant Islamic accounts available
- User-friendly trading platform available via web and mobile app
- No dedicated Arabic-language customer support
Pros:
- Commission-free stock and ETF trading
- Intuitive and beginner-friendly mobile and web platforms
- Wide range of stocks and ETFs from global markets
- Fractional share investing is available
- Easy account setup and onboarding process
Cons:
- Not regulated by DFSA or ADGM in the UAE
- No Islamic (swap-free) account options
- No Arabic-language customer support
- Limited access to advanced trading tools for professionals
8. OANDA – Best for forex and currency trading specialists. Great trading tools. Fast account opening.
Min Deposit: $0
Overall fee class: Low-Average
Time to open account: 1 day
Demo account: Yes
Forex and currency trading specialists
Key points:
- Specializes in Forex and CFD trading across global markets
- Not directly regulated in the UAE under DFSA or ADGM
- Offers Sharia-compliant Islamic trading accounts with interest-free options
- Advanced trading platforms: MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and OANDA’s proprietary platform
- No dedicated Arabic-language customer support for UAE clients
Pros:
- Regulated by FCA for firm operations
- No minimum deposit to open
- Competitive spreads on Forex and crypto
- Fast execution on OANDA Trade
- E-wallet support popular in UAE
- Robust educational tools
- 13 crypto CFDs available
Cons:
- No Islamic accounts offered
- Inactivity fee after 3 months
- Limited Arabic support
- Higher spreads than some rivals
OANDA divisions vary; check which applies. See OANDA Divisions. Spreads differ by division/account.
74-89% of retail CFD accounts lose money
9. XTB – Best for forex and CFD trading with good mobile platform. Easy account opening.
Min Deposit: $0
Overall fee class: Low
Time to open account: 1 day
Demo account: Yes
Beginner Traders, Active Traders, Day Traders
Key points:
- Specializes in Forex and CFD trading across global markets
- Not directly regulated in the UAE under DFSA or ADGM
- No Sharia-compliant Islamic accounts available
- Proprietary trading platform: xStation 5 for desktop and mobile
- Arabic-language customer support is available
Pros:
- User-friendly and highly intuitive xStation 5 trading platform
- Competitive Forex and CFD trading fees
- Access to global stock indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies via CFDs
- Arabic-language customer support available for UAE clients
- Strong educational resources and market analysis tools
Cons:
- Not regulated by DFSA or ADGM in the UAE
- No Sharia-compliant Islamic account options
- Limited access to individual stocks and ETFs outside CFDs
- No AED support for deposits or withdrawals, leading to conversion fees
81% of CFD retail account lose money
10. Sarwa – Best local broker. Best for passive investing via ETFs.
Min Deposit: $0
Overall fee class: Average
Time to open account: 1-3 days
Demo account: No
Automated Investors, Casual Investors
Key points:
- Low fees (no commission on trades)
- 3,000+ stocks, fractional shares
- Easy interface
- AED deposits
- DFSA, FSRA regulated
- Simple trading options
Pros:
- Local Dubai/Abu Dhabi offices
- Beginner-friendly, long-term focus
- Self-directed, automated trading
- Free financial advice
- AED deposits, no conversion fees
Cons:
- Limited research/education
- No penny stocks
How to find the best online broker in the UAE
Selecting the right broker is essential for both beginner and experienced traders in the UAE. Here’s how we evaluate the best options for you:
- Safety (Regulation): We prioritize brokers regulated by trusted authorities such as the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), and Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). Compliance with these local regulators ensures a secure, transparent, and compliant trading environment for UAE clients. Brokers regulated by Tier-1 international authorities like the FCA (UK) or ASIC (Australia) also provide an additional layer of security and credibility for a global range of financial products, including forex, CFDs, and derivatives.
- Fees: We focus on brokers offering competitive and transparent fee structures across a wide range of financial instruments, including forex, CFDs, ETFs, and global assets. This includes low trading commissions, tight spreads, and clear pricing policies. Special attention is given to brokers that minimize currency conversion fees and withdrawal costs, which are especially significant for UAE clients trading across diverse global markets.
- Non-trading fees: Brokers are assessed for hidden costs such as account maintenance charges, inactivity fees, or high withdrawal costs. Platforms with minimal or no non-trading fees are preferred. We also consider brokers offering favorable currency exchange rates and clear policies on financial transactions, reducing unnecessary costs for UAE-based investors across forex, indices, and diversified portfolios.
- Deposit/withdrawal, account opening: We value brokers that offer a streamlined and efficient account opening process tailored for UAE clients. Platforms with fast deposit and withdrawal options that support local payment methods like UAE bank transfers, credit cards, and region-specific gateways stand out. Reliable and accessible funding methods ensure smooth financial transactions and user convenience.
- Mobile app/trading platforms: We evaluate brokers based on the quality, functionality, and reliability of their mobile and desktop trading platforms. The best platforms are intuitive, feature-rich, and user-friendly, offering tools like real-time market alerts, advanced charting tools, and quick trade execution. Platforms that integrate multi-asset trading across forex, CFDs, indices, and global financial instruments provide enhanced versatility for UAE clients.
Taxation for online trading in the UAE
Understanding tax implications is important for traders in the UAE:
No personal income tax: The UAE does not impose personal income tax on residents. This means profits from stock trading, whether short-term or long-term, are not subject to taxation.
Dividend income: Dividends from UAE-listed companies are generally tax-free for residents. However, dividends from international stocks may be subject to withholding taxes in the source country. Investors should check for double taxation treaties between the UAE and the relevant country to determine if tax relief is available.
Corporate tax implications: Starting in 2023, businesses generating more than AED 375,000 in annual profits may be subject to corporate tax in the UAE. If stock trading is part of a business operation, the profits might fall under this tax regime. Consulting a tax advisor is recommended for business accounts.
Currency conversion considerations: While there are no specific taxes on currency conversions in the UAE, fluctuations in exchange rates when trading international stocks can indirectly impact profitability.
International tax obligations: UAE residents trading in foreign markets should be aware of tax obligations in the respective countries, such as capital gains or dividend taxes. Consulting with a tax advisor can help clarify any cross-border tax requirements.
The UAE’s tax environment is highly favorable for individual traders, but businesses and those trading international stocks should seek professional advice to navigate specific tax rules effectively
How to Invest in Global Markets from the UAE
Follow these simple steps to start investing and trading in the UAE:
- Choose a broker: Pick a broker regulated by SCA, ADGM, or DFSA in the UAE, or a trusted global broker offering access to forex, ETFs, indices, and global markets.
- Check local requirements: For UAE-listed assets (DFM, ADX, NASDAQ Dubai), you might need an Investor Number (NIN).
- Open an account: Submit your Emirates ID, passport, proof of address, and bank details. Many brokers offer quick online registration.
- Fund your account: Use UAE bank transfers, credit cards, or e-wallets. Choose brokers that accept AED to avoid extra fees.
- Understand the market: Learn about forex, ETFs, indices, and global markets. Research trends and economic news to make informed decisions.
- Set goals: Decide your investment goals (e.g., growth, income) and choose a strategy that matches your risk level.
- Start trading: Use your broker’s platform or mobile app to trade in forex, ETFs, indices, or UAE-listed assets.
- Manage risks: Diversify your portfolio and use tools like stop-loss orders to limit potential losses.
- Track your investments: Regularly check your portfolio, adjust your strategy, and stay updated with market changes.
- Withdraw or reinvest: Choose to withdraw profits or reinvest them to grow your portfolio long-term.
Which types of trading are legal in the UAE
In the UAE, trading is regulated by authorities like the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). These regulatory bodies ensure fairness, transparency, and investor protection. Here are the types of trading allowed in the UAE:
- Stock trading: Buying and selling shares of companies listed on UAE exchanges like the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), as well as international markets through approved brokers.
- Forex trading: Trading currency pairs is legal through brokers regulated by the SCA, ADGM, DFSA, or international regulators authorized to operate in the UAE.
- Derivatives trading: Trading in futures and options on regulated platforms, including commodities and financial instruments, is permitted under UAE law.
- Commodity trading: Trading physical commodities like gold, silver, and oil is legal, often conducted on platforms like the Dubai Gold and Commodities Exchange (DGCX).
- Mutual funds and bonds: Investing in mutual funds, government bonds, and corporate bonds is available through licensed brokers and financial institutions.
- Cryptocurrency trading: While not fully regulated, cryptocurrency trading is allowed under certain conditions through platforms approved by the UAE’s regulators.
It is essential to use brokers or platforms regulated by UAE authorities or internationally recognized bodies authorized to operate locally. This ensures secure, transparent, and compliant trading.
Conclusion
After reviewing and comparing top brokers for UAE clients, eToro emerges as the best online broker for 2025.
eToro offers access to both UAE-listed and global financial markets, making it a versatile platform for investors seeking diversification. Regulated by ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) and other top-tier international authorities, it ensures a secure and transparent trading experience tailored to UAE investors.
Its social trading features and the option to copy successful investors make it especially beginner-friendly. Combined with competitive fees, an intuitive platform, and a reliable mobile app, eToro simplifies trading and empowers users to manage their portfolios confidently.
With its strong regulatory backing, innovative tools, and user-friendly design, eToro stands out as the best online broker for UAE traders in 2025.
1
eToro 4.9 Your capital is at risk.
Best for social and copy trading, commission free stock and ETF trading.
2
AvaTrade 4.9 Your capital is at risk.
Best for forex and CFD trading beginners, great research tools, fast account opening.
3
Interactive Brokers 4.9 Your capital is at risk.
Ideal for professional traders and active investors, excellent for stocks and ETFs.
6
ActivTrades 4.5 Your capital is at risk.
Best for CFD trading on indices and stocks. Low trading fees. Easy account opening
7
Trading 212 4.3 Your capital is at risk.
Best customer support. Commission-free stock and ETF trading. Low trading fees.
8
OANDA 4.2 Your capital is at risk.
Best for forex and currency trading specialists. Great trading tools. Fast account opening.
FAQ
What is an online broker?
In the UAE, an online broker is a financial service provider that allows you to buy and sell financial instruments such as stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, forex, and derivatives through an online platform or app. These brokers provide access to both local exchanges, such as the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), and international markets, offering tools to monitor portfolios, analyze markets, and execute trades conveniently.
What is a stockbroker?
A stockbroker is a person or company that enables investors to buy and sell stocks or other investment assets. There are three main types of stockbrokers: full-service, discount, and online. A full-service stockbroker manages your money and investments on your behalf and may also offer financial advice.
A discount stockbroker allows you to choose your own investments but buys or sells them for you, and some also offer general information and recommendations to help you decide which assets to buy. An online stockbroker lets you buy and sell investment assets yourself through an online platform or a mobile app. Each type of stockbroker charges fees to cover the cost of running your investment account, buying and selling stocks, and/or trading in a foreign currency.
An online brokerage or investment platform is a website or app that allows you to buy, hold, and sell assets such as stocks, shares, and investment funds. Most providers offer access to companies across a range of industries and markets, including the US, UK, and Europe.
What should I look for when choosing a broker in the UAE?
- Regulation: Ensure the broker is licensed by UAE authorities like the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), or Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).
- Fees: Look for brokers with low commissions, transparent pricing, and minimal fees for withdrawals, currency conversions, or inactivity.
- Trading platforms: Opt for brokers offering user-friendly platforms with advanced tools, mobile compatibility, and access to both UAE and international markets.
- Asset variety: Choose brokers providing a wide selection of assets, including UAE-listed stocks, global equities, ETFs, and forex.
- Customer support: Look for brokers offering responsive support in English and Arabic, with availability during UAE market hours.
Are UAE brokers safe?
Brokers regulated by the SCA, ADGM, or DFSA are considered safe, as they adhere to stringent operational and financial standards. International brokers regulated by Tier-1 authorities like FCA or ASIC and authorized to operate in the UAE also provide secure trading environments.
What fees should I expect when trading in the UAE?
Expect brokerage fees, account maintenance charges, currency conversion fees for international markets, and occasional withdrawal fees. Brokers with locally tailored pricing are preferable to minimize costs.
What documents do I need to trade in the UAE?
- Emirates ID or valid passport
- Proof of residence (utility bill or rental agreement)
- Bank account details
- National Investor Number (NIN) for DFM and ADX trading
Can UAE clients trade internationally?
Yes, UAE clients can trade global markets through locally regulated brokers or internationally licensed platforms authorized to operate in the UAE. Ensure the broker provides access to your desired markets and complies with local regulations.
How do I manage risks when trading from the UAE?
Use tools like stop-loss orders, diversify across sectors and markets, and stay informed about market conditions. Select brokers offering features like risk alerts and negative balance protection to safeguard your investments.
What is negative balance protection?
Negative balance protection prevents traders from losing more money than they have deposited. This is especially important for leveraged trading to protect against volatile market movements.
What are ETFs, and why invest in them?
ETFs allow you to invest in a basket of assets like stocks or commodities and trade them like stocks. They offer diversification, low costs, and ease of trading, making them attractive to UAE investors looking to access both local and international markets.
How can I ensure my online trading is secure?
Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and trade through regulated brokers with encrypted platforms. Regularly monitor your account for unauthorized activity.
What is day trading, and is it suitable for me?
Day trading involves buying and selling securities within the same trading day. It requires time, quick decision-making, and a tolerance for high risk, making it better suited for experienced traders.
What is a brokerage account, and why do I need one in the UAE?
A brokerage account allows you to trade and invest in financial instruments such as stocks, ETFs, and forex. It is essential for accessing local exchanges like DFM and ADX or international markets.
Are brokerage charges negotiable in the UAE?
Some brokers may offer negotiable fees, especially for high-volume traders or business accounts. Inquire with your broker for potential discounts or tiered pricing options.
What is margin trading, and is it available in the UAE?
Margin trading lets you borrow funds to buy more securities than you could with your available capital, amplifying potential returns and risks. It is available in the UAE through brokers authorized for leveraged trading. Ensure you understand the risks before using this feature.
Do brokers in the UAE offer sharia-compliant trading?
Many brokers in the UAE provide sharia-compliant (Islamic) accounts with no interest charges, suitable for observant Muslim traders.
Which local stocks can I trade in the UAE?
UAE traders can access stocks listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), and NASDAQ Dubai.
What is the National Investor Number (NIN), and why is it important?
A National Investor Number is required for trading on DFM and ADX, and you can obtain it by registering with these exchanges. More information are available in this guide on how to buy stocks in UAE.
Do UAE residents pay taxes on stock trading?
No, UAE residents are not subject to personal income tax on trading profits. However, be aware of potential taxes when trading international stocks.
What are the most common assets traded in the UAE?
Stocks, ETFs, forex, commodities (like gold), mutual funds, and derivatives (futures and options) are commonly traded by UAE investors.
Can I trade cryptocurrencies in the UAE?
Yes, but only through authorized platforms such as eToro or brokers regulated by UAE authorities offering crypto assets.
What trading hours should I be aware of?
UAE stock markets operate Sunday to Thursday, with DFM and ADX trading hours typically from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM UAE time.
What are the biggest stock exchanges in the UAE?
The biggest stock exchanges in UAE are listed below:
- The Dubai Financial Market, or DFM for short
- The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, or ADX for short
- The NASDAQ Dubai
What are the different stock brokerage accounts available in the UAE?
There are 3 different stock brokerage accounts available in the UAE:
- Local stock brokers: available for people living in the UAE (both natives and expats). The Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (a UAE government agency) can be used instead.
- A UAE bank brokerage accounts: available to both foreigners and nationals living in the UAE and allow users access to self-directed trading and professionally managed investing.
- Online stock brokers: allow self-directed trading, access to international markets, and total control of investments through the same dashboard.
Can I invest in the UAE stock market as a tourist or expat?
Everyone can invest in the UAE stock market with a valid NIN number.
Disclaimer
eToro is a multi-asset platform which offers both investing in stocks and cryptoassets, as well as trading CFDs.
Please note that CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 51% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money
This communication is intended for information and educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice or investment recommendation. Past performance is not an indication of future results.
Copy Trading does not amount to investment advice. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.
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