These 6 trading platforms are tried, tested, and regulated in the UAE
If you are prepared to invest your money, the first thing to consider is what platform is suitable for your strategy. Whether you are looking for a cost-effective way to invest in fractionalised shares or a platform that lets you invest in cryptocurrency in a secure and regulated manner, there are a range of reliable trading platforms in the UAE for you to choose from.
While saving is an important aspect of financial planning, the rate of inflation can sometimes outpace the rate of interest offered by savings accounts, resulting in a loss of monetary value over time. As a result, the only way to truly grow your wealth rather than hold onto it is to invest it. All investments carry risk, and you should never invest more than you can afford to lose, but the importance of having the right platform with robust risk control tools and security features cannot be overstated.
Here are the best trading platforms in the UAE.
eToro
Best for: an all-round, gamified social trading experience
Whether you’re new to trading or a seasoned investor with the profits to prove it, you have likely already heard of eToro. This multi-asset investment platform offers a range of traditional financial instruments, including ETFs, commodities, and stocks, as well as alternative assets such as cryptocurrencies. Used by 35 million people, this platform is popular for its gamified, community-focused trading experience. Tools like CopyTrade let users automatically mimic the trades of more successful traders, while the Popular Investor Program rewards top traders for sharing their strategies, creating a social media-like trading environment.
For those still learning to navigate the market and manage risk effectively, eToro offers a demo trading account funded with $100,000 in virtual funds, allowing users to hone their skills, discuss strategies, and get a feel for the market without financial risk.
For UAE customers, eToro offers a Sharia-compliant Islamic Account, which charges zero interest on open positions.
Trading 212
Best for: low-cost, fractionalised shares
Trading 212 is a dynamic investment platform known for commission-free trading in the UAE. It offers a range of investment vehicles, including ETFs, stocks, and commodities, and it has real-time market data with advanced charting tools. A standout feature of Trading 212 is fractionalised shares, which let investors enter the market with as little as $1, lowering the entry barrier for those who may not have the means to pay full share prices. It has a user-friendly mobile app and 24/5 customer support, but it does not offer Islamic accounts.
With no commission, fractionalised ownership, and a user-friendly interface, Trading 212 is a highly democratic, easy-to-access platform with a wide pool of diverse investors. New users can make use of a comprehensive demo account with $50,000 in virtual funds.
IG
Best for: advanced trading, CFDs
IG is an excellent platform for advanced traders who are already confident with the market. Founded in 1974, this global multi-platform is known for its stability and reliability, offering one of the most extensive ranges of financial instruments and trading tools including indices, forex, IPOs, and cryptocurrencies. It has access to over 17,000 markets worldwide, including those specific to the Middle East region.
IG is perfect for hands-on traders in the UAE who like to eagle-eye the market, with real-time charting and up-to-the-minute financial analysis from global experts. While IG appeals to experienced traders, it also offers a comprehensive library of interactive educational resources for beginners, as well as advanced risk management tools. It has 24/7 customer support and a mobile app with extensive, easy-to-navigate features.
IG charges industry-average fees and commission, and it may be less suitable for those with low-value portfolios.
Sarwa
Best for: beginners, auto-investing
In a different direction to a traditional platform like IG is Sarwa – a UAE trading platform regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) within Abu Dhabi Global Markets (ADGM). Meaning ‘wealth’ in Arabic, Sarwa appeals to beginner and casual traders looking for passive, automatic investment options. Standout features of Sarwa include zero-commission trading, fractional shares, and automated portfolio management. It is a reliable option for investors seeking straight-forward, passive diversification, offering low-cost ETFs and access to a high-yield savings account (Sarwa Save) with a 3% annual interest rate.
As a local platform, Sarwa offers an extensive range of halal, Sharia-compliant investment options. Although the platform doesn’t have the long-established track record of older platforms like eToro and IG, it is regulated by both ADGM and Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), adhering to strict regulatory standards.
Amana
Best for: local stocks, low-cost trading
Another local company, Amana is one of the most popular trading platforms in the UAE. It was founded in 2010 and offers more than 800 financial instruments, including cryptocurrency, forex, gold, and US & MENA stocks. This UAE platform offers high leverage, zero commissions except on local shares, and no withdrawal fees, creating a cost-effective trading environment.
Amana is suitable for both high-volume experienced traders and beginners. Learning resources on Amana are particularly strong – its Real Vision resources are dubbed the ‘Netflix for finance’, offering tuition-free courses that demystify the world of finance.
Amana is regulated by Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and offers Sharia-compliant Islamic accounts for Muslim traders in the UAE.
AvaTrade
Best for: copy trading, forex
AvaTrade is a secure, globally-regulated trading platform with approximately half a million users. It is a preferred choice for forex, CFDs, and cryptocurrencies, alongside more niche alternative assets like agricultural commodities. This platform is suitable for experienced traders, but it also caters to beginners and those seeking a more social trading experience. Similar to eToro, AvaTrade offers features like DupliTrade and ZuluTrade, which let users copy the trades of other successful traders.
AvaTrade is regulated by ADGM alongside seven other global regulators, ensuring robust regulatory adherence. It offers Sharia-compliant Islamic accounts with no interest on overnight positions.
Plus500
Best for: CFDs, mobile trading
Plus500 is a multi-asset fintech company that’s traded on the London Stock Exchange. It is one of the largest trading platforms in the UAE, boasting more than 26 million registered users around the world. The platform is particularly suitable for on-the-go trading. The user-friendly mobile app has advanced risk management tools, advanced analytical tools, and commission-free trading.
Plus500 is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and has an office in DIFC, bringing security and peace-of-mind to UAE investors.
Final take
Ultimately, the best platform for you will depend on your specific investment strategy, risk tolerance, and trading style. Sometimes, investors will diversify across various platforms for different needs. If you are a beginner or novice investor in the UAE, platforms like eToro and AvaTrade are suitable options, offering a social gamified trading experience with generous demo account options. For more traditional investors seeking high leverage options, advanced charting tools, extensive CFD options, platforms like IG and Plus500 are reliable, regulated, and secure. With any investment, it is essential that you do your own research and exercise caution. Be aware of malicious links, phishing scams, and always ensure the security of your personal information.
