Best Online Trading Platforms in the UAE (2026): Fees, Access & Ease of Use Compared
21 October 2026Every broker's own website will tell you it's the best choice - which isn't much help when you're trying to actually decide. This guide compares the trading platforms genuinely accessible to UAE residents on account fees, which markets you can trade (local DFM/ADX shares vs. US stocks vs. global ETFs), and how fast you can realistically get started, so you can pick based on what matters for your situation rather than whichever platform's ad you saw last.
Online trading is booming in the UAE. In 2025 alone, 97,394 new investors joined the Dubai Financial Market, and 84% of them were foreign nationals, it’s clear more people are choosing to grow their money through stocks, ETFs, and global assets.
Broker data points the same way. Capital.com reported that its UAE clients placed 19.5 million trades in 2024, double the number placed by clients in Germany, with a total trading value of US$468.9 billion. Capital.com is not one of the platforms compared in this guide.
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 2026, so you can invest more efficiently from day one.
Quick answer: best trading platforms in the UAE at a glance
| Best for | Platform | Regulator | Fees (from this guide) | Minimum deposit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAE shares (DFM/ADX) | ADCB Securities, Emirates NBD Securities, FAB Securities | CMA (formerly SCA) | 0.15% (ADX) / 0.275% + ~AED 10 per order (DFM) | — |
| Low-cost US & global stocks | Interactive Brokers | DFSA | US$1 per US stock order | US$0 |
| Commission-free stocks & ETFs | XTB | DFSA | US$0 commission up to €100,000 monthly turnover | US$0 |
| Swiss-backed multi-asset broker | Swissquote | DFSA | US$10 per US stock order | US$0 |
| Experienced traders, 17,000+ markets | IG | DFSA | US$0 for the first 100 US trades a month, then US$5 | US$0 |
Fees and minimums as listed in the comparison tables below. CFD and leveraged products carry a high risk of losing money.
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 Capital Market Authority (CMA), which was called the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) until the end of 2025, 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: 128 listed securities as of Oct 2026, including equities on the main and growth markets
- Market capitalisation: AED 2.8 trillion at the end of June 2026
- 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 Capital Market Authority (CMA), formerly 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 (as of Oct 2026): 65 equities, 3 sukuk, 2 bonds, 1 fund, 2 ETFs and 2 REITs
- Market capitalisation: AED 992 billion (end of 2025)
- 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 (as of Oct 2026): 6 equities, 237 sukuk, 57 bonds and 3 funds
- 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 Capital Market Authority (CMA), known as the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) until the end of 2025. 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: CMA regulation
Mainland brokers are licensed by the CMA and must adhere to strict regulatory standards, including:
- Licensing: Brokers must hold a licence from the CMA, and you can check a broker's licence number on its website and with the regulator.
- 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:
| Financial Zone | Regulating Body |
|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) | Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) |
| Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) | Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) |
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.
| Instrument | Mainland Brokers (CMA) | ADGM/DIFC Brokers (FSRA/DFSA) |
|---|---|---|
| Stocks | Mainly local and regional exchanges (e.g. DFM, ADX, Tadawul); some also offer international markets | Access to global and local stocks |
| Forex | Limited offerings, Sharia-compliant | Full range of forex pairs |
| CFDs | Restricted, mainly local assets | Wide selection, including global markets |
| Commodities | Gold and oil via local exchanges | Global commodity futures and CFDs |
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 CMA, 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 October 2026:
- The Capital Market Authority (CMA), which officially replaced the SCA on 1 January 2026, lists 244 licensed companies and 76 investment funds (cma.ae).
- The DFSA regulates 1,247 firms (DFSA public register).
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:
| Broker | Total trading commission (ADX) | Total trading commission (DFM) | Total trading commission (Nasdaq Dubai) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADCB Securities | 0.15% of total trade value + 5% VAT | 0.275% Trade of Value + 5% VAT + AED 10 per executed order | 0.275% Trade of Value + 5% VAT + AED 10 per executed order |
| ADIB Securities | 0.15% of total trade value | 0.275% Trade of Value + AED 10 per executed order | NA |
| EFG Hermes | 0.15% of total trade value and a min of AED 31.5 | 0.275% Trade of Value + AED 10 per executed order and a min of AED 42 | NA |
| Emirates NBD Securities | 0.15% of total trade value + VAT | 0.275% Trade of Value + AED 10.5 per executed order | 0.23% of trade value + VAT + US$3.15 per executed order |
| FAB Securities | 0.15% of total trade value + 5% VAT | 0.275% Trade of Value + 5% VAT + AED 10 per executed order | NA |
| Mashreq Securities | 0.15% of total trade value + 5% VAT | 0.275% Trade of Value + 5% VAT + AED 10 per executed order | Broker commission: US$14 per trade under US$9,000; 0.25% from US$9,000, 0.20% from US$25,000, 0.10% over US$100,000 (plus market and settlement fees and 5% VAT) |
Local DFM/ADX Shares: ADCB Securities, Emirates NBD Securities, and FAB Securities provide direct exchange access with similar fee structures (~0.15%–0.275% + flat per-order clearing fees) and seamless linking to your local bank account. For Shariah-compliant execution, ADIB Securities is the primary dedicated Islamic option.
US & Global Access: Interactive Brokers ($1 min/order, IBKR Pro) and XTB ($0 commission up to €100,000 monthly turnover) represent two of the lowest-cost entry points, neither requiring a minimum deposit. IG, XTB and Swissquote all serve UAE clients through DFSA-licensed entities in the DIFC.
Regulatory Caution (OANDA & Trading 212): OANDA only offers leveraged derivative CFDs (no underlying asset ownership) and onboards UAE residents via its British Virgin Islands (BVI FSC) entity. Trading 212 ME Limited is listed as an authorised firm on the DFSA public register, so check which Trading 212 entity your account is opened with. While both are established, neither gives you local UAE regulatory arbitration (DFSA/ADGM).
Overview of Local Brokerages in UAE
Local brokerages in the UAE are licensed by the Capital Market Authority (CMA, formerly the SCA) and provide access to ADX and DFM, and in some cases Nasdaq Dubai. Most are owned by major banks like Emirates NBD, ADCB, and FAB, offering integrated banking and trading through a single platform.
With options for Shariah-compliant investing, Arabic-language support, and branch-based services, these brokerages cater to both new and experienced investors. Understanding each platform’s strengths can help you trade local markets more effectively.
ADCB Securities
ADCB Securities was founded in 2005 as the brokerage arm of Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, one of the UAE’s largest and most trusted financial institutions. It provides access to ADX, DFM and Nasdaq, making it a solid choice for domestic market investors.
The platform is fully integrated with ADCB’s banking system, streamlining account management and fund transfers. With a strong local presence, competitive trading fees, and regulatory backing, ADCB Securities serves both new and experienced UAE-based investors.
| Total trading commission (ADX) | Total trading commission (DFM) | Total trading commission (Nasdaq Dubai) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.15% of total trade value + 5% VAT | 0.275% Trade of Value + 5% VAT + AED 10 per executed order | 0.275% Trade of Value + 5% VAT + AED 10 per executed order |
ADIB Securities
Launched in 2005, ADIB Securities is the Shariah-compliant brokerage of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, catering to investors who prioritise ethical finance. It enables trading on the ADX and DFM, aligning with Islamic financial principles.
With a strong focus on faith-based investing, ADIB Securities provides tools for both individuals and institutions. Backed by ADIB’s extensive reach and digital innovation, it appeals to UAE investors seeking halal market exposure with personalised service.
| Total trading commission (ADX) | Total trading commission (DFM) | Total trading commission (Nasdaq Dubai) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.15% of total trade value | 0.275% Trade of Value + AED 10 per executed order | NA |
EFG Hermes UAE
Founded in 1984 in Egypt, EFG Hermes expanded its operations into the UAE as part of its regional strategy. Its UAE brokerage allows clients to trade on ADX and DFM, with a reputation for high-quality research and institutional service.
EFG Hermes UAE is regulated by the Capital Market Authority (CMA, formerly the SCA) and combines traditional brokerage support with modern tools. The firm is ideal for UAE-based investors looking for regional insight and pan-Arab market access.
| Total trading commission (ADX) | Total trading commission (DFM) | Total trading commission (Nasdaq Dubai) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.15% of total trade value and a min of AED 31.5 | 0.275% Trade of Value + AED 10 per executed order and a min of AED 42 | NA |
Emirates NBD Securities
Emirates NBD Securities was established in 2006 as the brokerage division of Emirates NBD, one of the UAE's largest banking groups. It supports trading on ADX, DFM, and Nasdaq Dubai, offering a wide local market reach.
The platform benefits from deep integration with Emirates NBD’s banking ecosystem, enabling smooth transactions and account oversight. With reliable digital tools, strong customer service, and regulatory compliance, it remains a trusted brokerage for UAE residents.
| Total trading commission (ADX) | Total trading commission (DFM) | Total trading commission (Nasdaq Dubai) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.15% of total trade value + VAT | 0.275% Trade of Value +VAT + AED 10.5 per executed order | 0.23% Trade of Value +VAT + US$3.15 per executed order |
FAB Securities
FAB Securities, established in 2001, is the trading subsidiary of First Abu Dhabi Bank, a regional banking powerhouse. It offers direct market access to ADX and DFM, regional MENA and GCC markets, and international equities through third-party brokers.
The platform is popular among UAE investors who prefer a secure, well-capitalised broker. With direct bank integration, FAB Securities simplifies portfolio management for retail and high-net-worth individuals alike.
| Total trading commission (ADX) | Total trading commission (DFM) | Total trading commission (Nasdaq Dubai) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.15% of total trade value + 5% VAT | 0.275% Trade of Value + 5% VAT + AED 10 per executed order | NA |
Mashreq Securities
Mashreq Securities was founded in 2000 under Mashreq Bank, one of the UAE’s oldest private banks. It offers trading services on ADX and DFM, supported by digital tools and a knowledgeable customer service team.
With a reputation for innovation, customisable platforms, and fast trade execution, Mashreq Securities suits UAE investors who want modern technology backed by a legacy bank. Its competitive fee structure makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
| Total trading commission (ADX) | Total trading commission (DFM) | Total trading commission (Nasdaq Dubai) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.15% of total trade value + 5% VAT | 0.275% Trade of Value + 5% VAT + AED 10 per executed order | Broker commission: US$14 per trade under US$9,000; 0.25% from US$9,000, 0.20% from US$25,000, 0.10% over US$100,000 (plus market and settlement fees and 5% VAT) |
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.
| Broker | US Stock Fees | Minimum Deposit | Withdrawal Fee | Deposit Method | Withdrawal Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interactive Brokers | $1.0 | $0 | $0 | Bank transfer | Bank transfer |
| Saxo | $1.6 | $5,000 | $0 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards | Bank transfer |
| XTB | $0 (up to €100,000 monthly turnover) | $0 | $0 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, Skrill | Bank transfer |
| Swissquote | $10.0 | $0 | $10 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards | Bank transfer |
| Trading 212 | $0.0 | $1 | $0 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay |
| IG | $0 (first 100 trades a month), then $5 | $0 | $0 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards |
| Oanda | $0.0 | $0 | $0 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, Skrill | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, Skrill |
Overview of International Brokerages in UAE
Many international online brokerages serve UAE clients through entities regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), but some onboard UAE residents through overseas entities instead and offer access to global markets including the US, Europe, and Asia. These platforms provide a wide range of products—stocks, ETFs, forex, commodities, and crypto—with competitive fees and modern trading tools.
Popular among UAE residents for their low entry barriers, multi-currency support, and digital-first experiences, these brokers are ideal for those seeking diversified exposure beyond local exchanges. Strong global regulation ensures both security and transparency for investors trading internationally.
Interactive Brokers
Founded in 1978 in the United States, Interactive Brokers is a global trading giant regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), U.S. SEC, and FINRA. It gives UAE investors access to over 150 global markets, covering stocks, ETFs, forex, futures, options, and crypto.
With US stock fees at $1, no minimum deposit, and professional-grade tools, Interactive Brokers is a favourite for advanced traders and global portfolio builders. Its robust compliance, low costs, and institutional-level reliability make it a standout choice.
| US Stock Fees | Minimum Deposit | Withdrawal Fee | Deposit Method | Withdrawal Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1.0 | $0 | $0 | Bank transfer | Bank transfer |
Saxo
Saxo Bank, founded in 1992 in Denmark, is regulated by the UK’s FCA, Denmark’s FSA, Switzerland’s FINMA and Australia’s ASIC. In the UAE, the Saxo Bank Representative Office is licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) solely to conduct representative office activities; it doesn't provide financial services, investment advice or regulated financial activities in the UAE. It provides access to 70,000+ instruments across 120 markets, from equities and bonds to forex and CFDs.
With a strong international reputation and a US$5,000 minimum deposit, Saxo suits UAE investors looking for diversification and multi-asset exposure. Its sleek platform and strong compliance credentials offer peace of mind and flexibility.
| US Stock Fees | Minimum Deposit | Withdrawal Fee | Deposit Method | Withdrawal Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1.60 | $5,000 | $0 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards | Bank transfer |
XTB
XTB was founded in 2002 in Poland and is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), the UK’s FCA, and Cyprus’ CySEC. It offers over 7,000 instruments, including forex, CFDs, commodities, crypto, and stocks, with zero-commission trading on stocks and ETFs up to €100,000 of monthly turnover.
Its award-winning xStation 5 platform is intuitive, and the firm is known for transparent pricing and strong global regulation. XTB’s no-fee structure and fast onboarding make it appealing to cost-conscious UAE investors.
| US Stock Fees | Minimum Deposit | Withdrawal Fee | Deposit Method | Withdrawal Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $0 (up to €100,000 monthly turnover) | $0 | $0 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, Skrill | Bank transfer |
Swissquote
Founded in 1996 in Switzerland, Swissquote is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), Switzerland’s FINMA, and the UK’s FCA. It offers access to stocks, ETFs, forex, options, futures, and cryptocurrencies with strong emphasis on compliance.
While its $10 US trading fee is higher, Swissquote appeals to UAE investors seeking Swiss-grade stability and global diversification. Its multi-currency funding and transparent structure support more conservative, long-term trading goals.
| US Stock Fees | Minimum Deposit | Withdrawal Fee | Deposit Method | Withdrawal Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10 | $0 | $10 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards | Bank transfer |
Trading 212
Trading 212, founded in 2004 and based in the UK, is authorised by the DFSA (Trading 212 ME Limited), as well as the UK's FCA and Cyprus's CySEC. It offers commission-free trading on stocks and ETFs, with a $1 minimum deposit and no account or withdrawal fees.
Its mobile-first design and support for PayPal and Apple Pay make it ideal for UAE residents entering the investment world. Trading 212 suits tech-forward users looking for low-cost, beginner-friendly investing with oversight from UK and EU regulators rather than a UAE regulator.
| US Stock Fees | Minimum Deposit | Withdrawal Fee | Deposit Method | Withdrawal Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $0 | $1 | $0 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay |
IG
Founded in 1974 in the UK, IG Group is licensed by the DFSA in Dubai, the UK’s FCA, Australia’s ASIC, and Singapore’s MAS. It gives UAE investors access to over 17,000 markets, including stocks, forex, indices, and crypto.
With no minimum deposit and professional-grade trading tools, IG caters to experienced traders in the UAE. It maintains transparency through tight regulation.
| US Stock Fees | Minimum Deposit | Withdrawal Fee | Deposit Method | Withdrawal Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $0 (first 100 trades a month), then $5 | $0 | $0 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards |
OANDA
Founded in 1996 in the US, OANDA is regulated in several jurisdictions, including by the BVI Financial Services Commission for the entity that offers CFDs internationally. It offers CFDs on US stocks and provides access to forex, commodities, indices, and cryptos.
OANDA offers intuitive tools, no minimum deposit, and a range of funding methods, including PayPal. Its extensive regulatory backing makes it a trusted platform for UAE investors seeking both global reach and platform security.
| US Stock Fees | Minimum Deposit | Withdrawal Fee | Deposit Method | Withdrawal Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $0 | $0 | $0 | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, Skrill | Bank transfer, Credit/Debit cards, PayPal, Skrill |
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 management fees as low as 0.2% p.a. and no hidden charges, investors can grow their wealth without worrying about high costs.
How to check a broker's licence
Before you deposit money, confirm that the exact company you are signing up with holds a UAE licence. The brand name is not enough, because many brokers run several companies in different countries.
- Find the licensed entity's name and licence number. It is usually in the footer of the broker's UAE website or in its client agreement.
- For brokers in the DIFC, search the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) public register at dfsa.ae/public-register. Check that the firm's status is current and that a withdrawal date isn't shown.
- For mainland brokers, check the licence number against the Capital Market Authority (CMA), which was called the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) until the end of 2025.
- For brokers in Abu Dhabi Global Market, check the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) register.
- Make sure the entity on the register is the one named on your account-opening documents.
| Broker | DFSA-licensed entity | DFSA reference | Licensed since |
|---|---|---|---|
| IG | IG Limited | F001780 | 10 June 2015 |
| XTB | XTB MENA Limited | F006316 | 8 July 2021 |
| Swissquote | Swissquote MEA Ltd | F001438 | 16 July 2012 |
| Plus500 | Plus500AE Ltd | F005651 | Not stated |
Costs to check beyond the headline commission
A '0% commission' label rarely means trading is free. Check these costs before you choose a platform:
- Trade or volume caps: XTB charges no commission on stocks and ETFs up to €100,000 of monthly turnover, then 0.2% (minimum €10). IG's UAE share dealing is free for up to 100 trades a month, then US$5 per US share trade.
- Currency conversion: if you fund in AED and buy US shares, you pay to convert. XTB lists a 0.5% conversion cost, and IG applies a 0.7% FX spread once you exceed the free-trade limit.
- Inactivity fees: XTB charges €10 a month if you haven't bought or sold anything for 365 days.
- Exchange and regulator fees on UAE shares: on the DFM, a typical 0.275% commission is made up of a 0.125% broker fee, a 0.05% market fee, a 0.05% regulator fee and a 0.05% depository fee, plus a fixed transaction fee (AED 10.50 at Emirates NBD Securities).
How to open a trading account
- Decide what you want to trade. For DFM or ADX shares you need a broker that is a member of those exchanges. For US and global shares you need an international broker.
- Pick a licensed broker and check its licence (see above).
- Apply online. For UAE shares you also need an Investor Number (NIN). Many brokers create it for you during sign-up: Mashreq offers fully digital ADX and DFM NIN creation, and FAB Securities says opening a trading account and getting a NIN is free.
- Fund the account. For DFM shares you can also use DFM's iVestor app, which lets you open a trading account with partner brokers and track your portfolio.
- Place your first order and check the confirmation for all fees charged.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best trading platform in the UAE?
There's no single "best" platform — it depends on what you want to trade. For UAE-listed shares on the ADX or DFM, bank-linked brokerages like ADCB Securities, Emirates NBD Securities, and FAB Securities offer direct access at broadly similar fees (around 0.15%–0.275% per trade). For US stocks and global markets, Interactive Brokers and XTB currently offer the lowest costs with no minimum deposit.
Do I need a DFSA-regulated broker to trade in the UAE?
Not necessarily, but it matters for investor protection. Brokers licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) or Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) — such as Interactive Brokers, IG, XTB and Swissquote, fall under UAE-based regulatory oversight, while local bank brokerages are licensed by the federal Capital Market Authority (CMA). Some international platforms (e.g., Trading 212) serve UAE clients only through their UK or EU entities, without a UAE-specific license.
Can I buy real US stocks from the UAE, or only CFDs?
Both options exist, and they're not the same thing. Interactive Brokers, XTB, Swissquote, Trading 212, and IG's DIFC entity all let you buy and own the actual shares. OANDA, by contrast, only offers CFDs on UAE accounts — a derivative that tracks the share price without giving you ownership — so it's not the right pick if owning the stock matters to you.
How much money do I need to start trading in the UAE?
It varies widely by platform. Several (Interactive Brokers, XTB, IG) have no minimum deposit at all, and Trading 212 starts at $1. Saxo requires a minimum deposit of US$5,000 for clients in the region, a notable exception worth knowing before you sign up.
Is online trading legal in the UAE?
Yes. Online trading is legal in the UAE when you use a licensed broker: the Capital Market Authority (CMA, called the Securities and Commodities Authority until 2025) licenses mainland brokers, the DFSA regulates brokers in the DIFC, and the FSRA regulates brokers in ADGM. Avoid unlicensed apps; check the broker on the regulator's public register.
What is the most trusted trading platform in the UAE?
Judge trust by regulation, not branding. For UAE-listed shares, CMA-licensed bank brokerages such as ADCB Securities, Emirates NBD Securities and FAB Securities give direct exchange access. For global markets, DFSA-regulated brokers such as Interactive Brokers, XTB and Swissquote are widely used by UAE residents.