These days, jumping into the stock market is easier than ever with trading apps right at your fingertips in Dubai, UAE. But with all the choices out there, figuring out which one works best for you can feel tricky.
Skipping the homework might land you with an app that’s clunky, pricey, or not secure enough. Luckily, we’ve dug into a bunch of these apps and broken them down to clear things up and help you pick wisely. In this guide, you’ll get the scoop on the top 8 trading platforms in the UAE that look strong for 2025.
Understanding Online Trading Apps in the UAE
Before jumping into the top platforms, it’s worth knowing how online trading rolls in the UAE. The scene here splits mainly between the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the rest of the country. It’s all kept in check by regulators like the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), so investors have a safe setup.
With things like the wild swings in crypto prices grabbing headlines, more folks are getting into online trading. Everyday investors are showing they can make moves too, proving you don’t need big bucks to get involved. Getting started in the UAE takes a bit of prep, but it’s pretty straightforward once you’re set.
How to Start Trading Stocks in the UAE?
Kicking off stock trading in the UAE boils down to a few simple steps to meet the rules and hit the ground running:
1. Get a National Investor Number (NIN)
First up, grab a National Investor Number (NIN) from the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) or Nasdaq Dubai. You’ll need it to trade on local exchanges like the ADX (Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange) or DFM.
2. Open a Brokerage Account
With your NIN in hand, set up an account with a trustworthy broker. That’s where you’ll add funds and make your trades.
3. Jump into Trading
Account ready? Now you can buy and sell based on your plan and what’s happening in the market.
4. Keep an Eye on Your Investments
Stay on top of market shifts and check in on your portfolio regularly to tweak things as needed.
Even if you’re not a resident or under 21, you can trade with the right paperwork and approvals.
Top 8 Trading Platforms in UAE for 2025
Picking the right trading platform in Dubai can really shape your experience when it comes to ease, costs, and safety. Here’s a rundown of the top apps and platforms worth considering for 2025:
1. eToro – Best Trading Platform for Beginners in the UAE
eToro gives you access to over 4,500 assets like stocks, ETFs, and commodities. It’s popular for its straightforward setup and social trading tools, like Copy Trading, where you can follow what experienced traders are doing. Fees are kept reasonable with spreads around 1%.
- Fees: No direct trading fees; spreads average about 1%.
- Assets: More than 4,500, covering stocks, ETFs, and commodities.
- Regulation: Licensed by the Abu Dhabi Global Market Authority (ADGM) and meets global standards.
- AED Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and digital wallets.
- Minimum Deposit: AED 370 (approx. $100).
- Best Feature: Copy Trading lets you mirror pros without starting from scratch.
- Track Record: Named Best Trading Platform in the UAE by Forbes Advisor 2024; millions of users worldwide.
2. Interactive Brokers – Best for Experienced Global Traders
A go-to for more experienced folks, Interactive Brokers opens doors to over 100 markets worldwide. It shines with low fees and solid tools for serious trading. Regulated by the UAE’s Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) and the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
- Fees: Low commissions, spreads from 1% to 1.5%.
- Assets: Over 2,500 assets across 100+ markets.
- Regulation: Compliant with UAE SCA and UK FCA.
- AED Deposit Methods: Debit/credit cards and bank wires.
- Minimum Deposit: AED 0 (no minimum for most accounts).
- Best Feature: IBKR Mobile app brings pro-level tools to your phone for trading anywhere.
- Track Record: #1 for Active Traders in StockBrokers.com 2025 Awards; operating since 1977 with trillions under management.
3. DEGIRO – Best for Budget-Conscious Stock Traders
DEGIRO keeps things clear with fair pricing and access to over 2,500 stocks and ETFs. It’s regulated by the UAE’s SCA and works well for all levels thanks to its simple design and low costs.
- Fees: Spreads around 1%, no commissions.
- Assets: 2,500 assets in 50 markets.
- Regulation: SCA-regulated.
- AED Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and digital payments.
- Minimum Deposit: AED 0 (no minimum required).
- Best Feature: Straightforward interface that’s easy to pick up, even if you’re new.
- Track Record: #1 European Discount Broker at Investing in the Web’s Global Brokerage Awards 2024; over 100 international awards for fees and service.
4. Plus500 – Best for CFD and Forex Enthusiasts
Plus500 is a good fit for UAE traders, with over 2,800 instruments like stocks, forex, commodities, and ETFs. It skips commissions and is licensed by the DFSA.
- Fees: No commissions, spreads from 1% to 2%.
- Assets: 2,800+ instruments, including stocks and forex.
- Regulation: DFSA-licensed.
- AED Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and digital payments.
- Minimum Deposit: AED 370 (approx. $100).
- Best Feature: Clean, no-frills app for quick trades across a wide range.
- Track Record: Strong growth with record client deposits in 2025; new UAE license and local sponsorships like the Dubai City Half Marathon.
5. SaxoTraderGO – Best for Versatile Multi-Asset Traders
SaxoTraderGO brings advanced tools and a mix of assets, from stocks and bonds to commodities and crypto. It suits beginners to pros with features like technical charts and market updates.
- Fees: Competitive fees for retail and professional investors; spreads from 0.7 pips on major forex pairs.
- Assets: Stocks, forex, crypto, bonds, and more (70,000+ instruments).
- Regulation: SCA-licensed, also regulated by DFSA for UAE clients.
- AED Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, credit/debit cards.
- Minimum Deposit: AED 0 (no minimum for most accounts).
- Best Feature: Built-in market insights and economic calendar to stay informed.
- Track Record: Best in Class for Mobile Trading Apps in ForexBrokers.com 2025 Awards; Best Forex Broker at Global Finance Awards 2024.
6. Sarwa – Best for Hands-Off New Investors
Sarwa is straightforward and great for starters, with auto-investing and tailored advice. It handles fund allocation based on trends and your risk level.
- Fees: Low fees, typically 0.25% per trade or $1 for Sarwa Trade.
- Assets: Stocks, ETFs, crypto, and auto-invest portfolios.
- Regulation: DFSA-regulated.
- AED Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, debit/credit cards.
- Minimum Deposit: AED 18 (approx. $5).
- Best Feature: Hands-off investing that adjusts to your goals.
- Track Record: First regulated robo-advisor in the region; Best Wealth Management Solution UAE 2025 by World Economic Magazine; hit profitability in 2024.
7. TastyWorks – Best for Active Options Traders
TastyWorks (now known as Tastytrade), from TD Ameritrade, is geared toward active options traders. It focuses on options and futures with affordable pricing and strong tools.
- Fees: Low-cost pricing, typically $1 per contract for options.
- Assets: Options, futures, stocks, and ETFs.
- Regulation: Regulated by US authorities and accessible in UAE.
- AED Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, wire transfers.
- Minimum Deposit: AED 0 (no minimum for most accounts).
- Best Feature: Customizable options chains for spotting trades fast.
- Track Record: Best for Active Traders by Time Magazine 2025; #1 for Innovation 2025.
8. XTB – Best for Cost-Conscious CFD Traders
XTB offers good value with its CFD and forex lineup. It’s a solid choice for traders watching costs, with useful features and an easy interface.
- Fees: Competitive spreads and low commissions, around 0.30% markup on CFDs.
- Assets: Forex, CFDs, indices, stocks, and ETFs.
- Regulation: Licensed by multiple global authorities, including DFSA.
- AED Deposit Methods: Debit/credit cards, bank wires.
- Minimum Deposit: AED 0 (no minimum required).
- Best Feature: Advanced charts for spotting trends in CFDs.
- Track Record: Record revenues and 1.54 million clients in 2025; new Dubai office for stronger UAE presence.
Conclusion
Trading in Dubai and the UAE has a lot of upside for beginners and pros alike. With a good platform like eToro, Interactive Brokers, or Plus500, you can dive in confidently. They offer reliable tools, secure setups, and reasonable fees to help you navigate the markets smartly.
Choosing the right app or platform sets you up well for online trading in the UAE. Get going today and tap into what’s out there!
FAQs About Trading in the UAE
1. How do I open a trading account in the UAE?
Apply for a Dubai Financial Market (DFM) National Investor Number (NIN) and pick a licensed broker to set up your account.
2. What’s the best way to buy and sell stocks in the UAE?
Pick a platform, open and fund your account, do some research, make trades, and keep track of how things are going.
3. What are the perks of trading in Dubai?
Dubai has plenty of chances in stocks and forex, plus a tax-free vibe and solid financial setup that draws investors.
4. Which trading platform is top in the UAE?
Options like eToro and Interactive Brokers rank high for their easy use, low costs, and UAE compliance.
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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. 61% 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.
Crypto assets are complex and carry a high risk of volatility and loss. Trading or investing in crypto assets may not be suitable for all investors. Take 2 mins to learn more
eToro USA LLC does not offer CFDs and makes no representation and assumes no liability as to the accuracy or completeness of the content of this publication, which has been prepared by our partner utilizing publicly available non-entity specific information about eToro.