Best Online Trading Platform in UAE [2025 Guide]

Online trading is booming in the UAE. With over 138,000 new investor accounts added to the Dubai Financial Market in 2024 alone, and 85% of them being foreign nationals, it’s clear more people are choosing to grow their money through stocks, ETFs, and global assets. 

Moreover, one of the best brokerage companies in the middle east - Capital.com reported that UAE traders were the most active on its platform in the past year, executing an impressive 19.5 million trades—twice the volume recorded in Germany. This remarkable activity positioned the UAE as the top market globally on the platform, with a total trading value reaching $468.9 billion.

Now, with platforms now offering zero-commission trades, real-time market access, and seamless mobile onboarding, choosing the right online trading platform can make or break your investment journey. This guide breaks down the best online trading platforms in the UAE for 2025, so you can invest more efficiently from day one.

What is an online trading platform?

Online trading platforms have transformed how people invest in financial markets. In the UAE, these platforms enable users to buy and sell a wide range of assets, including stocks, ETFs, forex, cryptocurrencies, commodities, and contracts for difference (CFDs). 

Typically, these platforms are available as desktop software, web-based services, or mobile applications. Choosing the right platform can significantly impact your trading experience, making it essential to understand the different types available and the assets you can trade.

What can you trade? 

Most platforms support a diverse range of investment options, allowing you to build a balanced portfolio:

1. Stocks:

• Shares of public companies listed on local exchanges like the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and Dubai Financial Market (DFM), as well as international markets like Nasdaq, New York Stock Exchange, and more. 
• Represents ownership in a company and entitles the holder to a portion of the company’s earnings and assets.

2. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs):

• Investment funds that track the performance of a specific index, sector, or commodity.
• Offers diversified exposure with a single purchase, such as tracking the S&P 500 or a basket of emerging market stocks.
• Traded like a stock on major exchanges, making them highly liquid.

3. Forex (Foreign Exchange):

• The trading of currency pairs (e.g., AED/USD, EUR/USD) with the goal of profiting from currency fluctuations.
• One of the most liquid and volatile markets, operating 24/7.

4. Cryptocurrencies:

• Digital or virtual currencies secured by cryptography, such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and others.
• Can be traded against fiat currencies (e.g., BTC/USD) or other cryptocurrencies.
• Offers high volatility and potential for significant returns, but also substantial risk.

5. Commodities:

• Physical assets like gold, oil, natural gas, and agricultural products.
• Traded either as spot commodities (immediate delivery) or through futures contracts (agreement to buy/sell at a later date).
• Used for diversification, inflation hedging, and speculative trading.

6. Contracts for Difference (CFDs):

• Derivative instruments that allow traders to speculate on the price movement of assets without actually owning them.
• Includes a wide range of underlying assets like stocks, indices, commodities, and forex.
• Suitable for leveraged trading, but also involves a higher level of risk.

Primary stock exchanges in UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) hosts three primary stock exchanges: the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), and Nasdaq Dubai. Each serves distinct roles in the region's financial ecosystem and most brokers in UAE support trading in these three stock exchanges.

Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)

Founded in 2000, the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), originally known as the Abu Dhabi Securities Market, was rebranded in 2008. 

Regulated by the Emirates Securities and Commodities Authority (ESCA), ADX serves as one of the UAE’s primary financial trading platforms. 

The exchange offers a wide range of products, including cash equities, ETFs, foreign equities (planned), and derivatives. It operates with a focus on promoting sustainable investment and innovation.

• Listings: 151 securities, including equities (main market & growth market), ETFs, and derivatives
• Market Capitalization: Approximately AED 2.97 trillion (USD 808 billion) as of November 2024
• Key Index: FTSE ADX General Index

Dubai Financial Market (DFM)

The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) was founded on March 26, 2000, and is regulated by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA). 

It operates as a public joint-stock company, with 80% owned by Borse Dubai and 20% held by public shareholders. 

The DFM specializes in trading equities, sukuks, ETFs, and REITs, making it a popular platform for both retail and institutional investors. It remains a key player in the UAE’s financial ecosystem, frequently attracting IPOs and investment in the real estate and tourism sectors.

• Listings: 69 companies and 130 securities 
• Market Capitalization: AED 907 billion (2024)
• Key Index: DFM General Index (DFMGI)

Nasdaq Dubai

Nasdaq Dubai, founded in 2005 as the Dubai International Financial Exchange (DIFX), was rebranded to its current name in 2008. 

Regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), it operates from the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). 

The exchange primarily caters to international investors, offering products like equities, Sukuk (Islamic bonds), and derivatives. It is fully electronic and serves as a hub for cross-border listings and innovative financial products.

• Listings: 7 equities, 2 ETPs, 105 sukuk, 41 conventional bonds
• Key Index: FTSE Nasdaq Dubai UAE 20

Financial market regulation in UAE

The financial market in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is regulated by a multi-tier system designed to ensure transparency, investor protection, and compliance with local laws. 

The primary regulatory body overseeing non-banking financial services, including brokerages, is the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA). Additionally, brokers may also operate under the jurisdiction of specialized financial zones, each governed by their own regulatory frameworks of either Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) for Abu Dhabi or Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) for Dubai.

Mainland brokers: SCA regulation

Mainland brokers are licensed by the SCA and must adhere to strict regulatory standards, including:

• Sharia Compliance: Products must be interest-free, aligning with Islamic finance principles.
• Client Fund Management: Brokers must maintain client funds separately from their own operating funds.
• Capital Requirements: Minimum capital thresholds are enforced to ensure financial stability.
• Ownership Rules: Brokers must comply with specific ownership and corporate governance requirements.

Financial free zone brokers: ADGM and DIFC regulation

Brokers operating within financial free zones like the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) follow different regulatory standards:

These zones offer greater flexibility compared to mainland regulations while maintaining robust client protection protocols. Brokers operating here can offer a broader range of financial products, including conventional and Sharia-compliant options.

Trading Financial Instruments in the UAE

The UAE trading landscape allows investors to trade a variety of financial instruments through licensed brokers. The types of trading vary based on whether the broker is registered as a mainland or free zone entity.

To trade stocks on local exchanges such as the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), or NASDAQ Dubai, investors must open an account with a broker registered on these exchanges. For forex and CFDs, investors can choose from a range of online brokers licensed either as mainland or free zone entities.

Why choose regulated brokers

Choosing a regulated broker is essential for safeguarding your investments and ensuring compliance with UAE financial laws. Here’s why regulation matters:

• Investor Protection: Regulated brokers follow strict rules regarding client fund segregation, protecting your money from misuse.
• Dispute Resolution: Regulatory bodies like the SCA, DFSA, and FSRA provide a framework for resolving disputes between investors and brokers.
• Financial Stability: Brokers must maintain a minimum capital base to ensure they can meet financial obligations.
• Transparency: Regular financial reporting and audits are mandatory, maintaining market integrity and investor trust.

Some stats that you should know about financial market regulation

As of May 2025, 

• The SCA regulates 191 active financial institutions, including forex brokers, with 20 specifically identified as brokers.
• The DFSA regulates 816 financial institutions.

Best local licensed brokerage in UAE

The brokers listed below are fully licensed and regulated, offering reliable services for trading Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Nasdaq Dubai listed securities. Each broker differs in terms of fee structure, tradable assets, and service offerings, making it essential to choose one that aligns with your investment strategy.

To assist in your selection, we have compiled a detailed comparison of the leading brokerage firms. The table below highlights each broker’s fees for your reference:

Best international online brokerage in UAE

Here’s a comparison of the best international online brokers available for UAE residents, focusing on key factors such as US stock fees, minimum deposit, withdrawal fee, deposit method, and withdrawal method.

1. Interactive Brokers

Interactive Brokers is a top international online broker known for its low fees, broad market access, and strong regulatory compliance.

It offers trading on over 150 markets worldwide, including stocks, ETFs, options, futures, forex, bonds, mutual funds, and cryptocurrencies.

Fees and Commissions:

• US Stock Trading Fee: $1.00 per trade
• S&P 500 Index CFD Fee: $4.60
• Account Fee: None
• Inactivity Fee: None
• Withdrawal Fee: $0

Account and Funding:

• Minimum Deposit: $0
• Time to Open Account: 1–3 days
• Deposit Methods: Bank transfer
• Withdrawal Methods: Bank transfer

Interactive Brokers is regulated in the United States by the SEC and FINRA, in Europe by the FCA, and in Dubai by the DFSA.

2. Saxo

Saxo is a well-regarded international broker offering a broad range of trading instruments and strong regulatory oversight, making it a solid choice for UAE investors. Clients can access over 70,000 instruments across 120 global exchanges, including stocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, forex, options, futures, and CFDs. 

Saxo is regulated by top-tier authorities, including the UK's FCA, Denmark's FSA, Switzerland's FINMA, Australia's ASIC, and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).

Fees and Commissions:

• US Stock Trading Fee: $1.60 per trade
• S&P 500 Index CFD Fee: $3.30
• Account Fee: None
• Inactivity Fee: None
• Withdrawal Fee: $0

Account and Funding:

• Minimum Deposit: $0
• Time to Open Account: 1 day
• Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit cards
• Withdrawal Methods: Bank transfer

Saxo Bank's competitive fee structure and extensive product offerings make it an attractive option for both novice and experienced traders in the UAE. The absence of account and inactivity fees, coupled with a $0 minimum deposit requirement, lowers the barrier to entry for new investors. Additionally, the availability of multiple deposit methods adds convenience for clients.

3. XTB

XTB is a globally recognized broker offering a wide range of trading instruments, including forex, CFDs, stocks, ETFs, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. 

With access to over 7,000 instruments, it caters to both retail and professional traders. XTB is regulated by top-tier authorities such as the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), ensuring a secure trading environment.

Fees and Commissions:

• US Stock Trading Fee: $0.00 (commission-free)
• S&P 500 Index CFD Fee: $1.40
• Account Fee: None
• Inactivity Fee: Yes
• Withdrawal Fee: None for bank transfers above a certain threshold

Account and Funding:

• Minimum Deposit: $0
• Time to Open Account: 1 day
• Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit cards, PayPal, Skrill, Paysafe, Neteller
• Withdrawal Methods: Bank transfer

XTB's proprietary xStation 5 platform offers a user-friendly interface with advanced charting tools and real-time market analysis. The broker provides educational resources, including webinars and tutorials, to support traders at all levels. 

With competitive fees, a broad product range, and strong regulatory oversight, XTB is a solid choice for traders seeking a comprehensive trading experience.

4. Swissquote

Swissquote is a Swiss-based broker offering access to a wide range of financial instruments, including stocks, ETFs, forex, CFDs, options, futures, bonds, and cryptocurrencies. 

The platform is regulated by top-tier authorities such as FINMA (Switzerland), FCA (UK), and DFSA (UAE), ensuring a secure trading environment.

Fees and Commissions:

• US Stock Trading Fee: $10.00 per trade
• S&P 500 Index CFD Fee: $2.80
• Account Fee: None
• Inactivity Fee: None
• Withdrawal Fee: $10.00

Account and Funding:

• Minimum Deposit: $0
• Time to Open Account: 1 day
• Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit cards
• Withdrawal Methods: Bank transfers

Swissquote's fee structure is transparent, with trading fees varying based on the instrument and trading volume. The broker does not charge account maintenance or inactivity fees, but a withdrawal fee of $10 applies. Account opening is straightforward, requiring no minimum deposit, and can be completed within a day. Funding options include bank transfers and credit/debit cards, with withdrawals processed via bank transfer.

5. Trading 212

Trading 212 is a UK-based broker regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).

It offers commission-free trading on real stocks and ETFs, with no account or withdrawal fees. The platform requires a low minimum deposit of $1 and provides various funding options, including bank transfers and credit/debit cards.

Fees and Commissions:

• US Stock Trading Fee: $0.00 (commission-free)
• S&P 500 Index CFD Fee: $2.10
• Account Fee: None
• Inactivity Fee: None
• Withdrawal Fee: None

Account and Funding:

• Minimum Deposit: $1
• Time to Open Account: 1 day
• Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal
• Withdrawal Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit cards

Trading 212's proprietary platform is user-friendly and suitable for both beginners and experienced traders. The broker offers a wide range of tradable instruments, including stocks, ETFs, forex, commodities, and indices. With its low fees and accessible platform, Trading 212 is a competitive option for traders seeking cost-effective trading solutions.

6. IG

IG is a UK-based broker regulated by multiple authorities, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). 

It offers access to over 17,000 markets, encompassing forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.

Fees and Commissions:

• US Stock Trading Fee: $10.00 per trade
• S&P 500 Index CFD Fee: $2.90
• Account Fee: None
• Inactivity Fee: $12 per month after 2 years of inactivity
• Withdrawal Fee: None

Account and Funding:

• Minimum Deposit: $0
• Time to Open Account: 1–3 days
• Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit cards, PayPal
• Withdrawal Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit cards

IG's fee structure is transparent, with no charges for account maintenance, deposits, or withdrawals. 

The broker imposes an inactivity fee of $12 per month only after two years of inactivity. Account opening is straightforward, requiring no minimum deposit, and can be completed within 1 to 3 days. 

Funding options include bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and PayPal, with withdrawals processed via bank transfer or cards.

7. Oanda

OANDA is a well-established forex and CFD broker founded in 1996, regulated by top-tier authorities including the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), MAS (Singapore), CFTC (USA), and DFSA (Dubai). 

It offers a broad range of trading instruments such as forex pairs, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, with availability varying by region. 

Fees and Commissions:

• US Stock Trading Fee: $0 (commission-free)
• S&P 500 Index CFD Fee: $2.90
• Account Fee: None
• Inactivity Fee: $14 per month after 12 months of inactivity
• Withdrawal Fee: None

Account and Funding:

• Minimum Deposit: $0
• Time to Open Account: 1–3 days
• Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit cards, PayPal
• Withdrawal Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit cards

OANDA's fee structure is transparent, with no charges for account maintenance, deposits, or withdrawals. The broker imposes an inactivity fee of $14 per month only after 12 months of inactivity.

Account opening is straightforward, requiring no minimum deposit, and can be completed within 1 to 3 days. Funding options include bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and PayPal, with withdrawals processed via bank transfer or cards.

Global diversification made easy with StashAway General Investing

StashAway General Investing offers UAE investors a simple and cost-effective way to diversify globally. With access to a wide range of international ETFs and assets, StashAway’s data-driven investment strategy ensures a balanced portfolio that adapts to market changes. Plus, with low fees of 0.2% - 0.8% and no hidden charges, investors can grow their wealth without worrying about high costs.