The 6 best stock brokers in the UAE for 2024 - and how to find your best fit
If you’re looking for the best stock brokers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), you’re in the right place.
Our team at Investors Observer has compiled a list of the most reliable, cost-effective platforms for everything from automated investing to active trading.
But make no mistake—finding the best broker goes beyond flashy marketing and promotional deals.
Here’s what we focused on when selecting the top brokers in the UAE:
- Regulatory compliance and licensing from UAE authorities (SCA, DFSA)
- Platform reliability and trading tools
- Fee transparency and competitive pricing
- Quality of customer support
- Range of available markets and assets
- Account funding options
Without further ado, here are Investors Observer's picks for the best brokers in the UAE for 2024:
- Sarwa – Best for hands-off investors seeking automated portfolio management
- Baraka – Ideal for beginners looking for easy, accessible trading
- Century Financial – Best for traders wanting extensive market access
- Plus500 – Top broker for CFD trading in the UAE
- Amana – Best for wide MENA market access with zero fees
- Etoro – Best social trading platform with copy-trading features
1. Sarwa
Looking for a trading platform in the UAE that does the heavy lifting for you?
Sarwa has cracked the code on automated investing, using smart technology to build and manage your portfolio while you focus on life.
The reason Sarwa made our list of the best trading platforms is its refreshing simplicity.
Through Sarwa Invest, their robo-advisory service selects and manages low-cost ETFs based on your risk comfort level.
Think of it as having a financial advisor who never sleeps.
The platform even offers a high-yield savings account paying 3% annually—a smart place to park your cash while you plan your next investment move.
Plus, with FSRA regulation from Abu Dhabi Global Market, you can trust that your money is in safe hands.
Pricing:
- Management fees: 0.5% to 0.85% annually (based on account balance)
- No minimum balance requirement
2. Baraka
Baraka has quickly emerged as one of the best trading apps for beginners in the region. The UAE Government named Baraka a Future 100 company, and for good reason.
The Ministry of Economy recognized what thousands of new investors have discovered: finally, here’s a platform that makes trading feel less like rocket science and more like everyday banking.
This Dubai broker combines access to over 8,400 stocks and ETFs with zero-commission trading, but that’s just the start.
Baraka's real achievement lies in its fresh approach to investor education, Shariah-compliant trading options, and an “auto-invest” feature that automates portfolio building.
All this comes wrapped in an app so straightforward it’s changing how UAE residents think about investing.
Pricing:
- $1 trade fee for buying and selling stocks and ETFs after using free trades
- One free trade per month for all users, 3 free trades for Premium subscribers
- No account maintenance fees
- Inactivity fee of $1 per month for accounts with less than $50 in total cash and no open positions
- Currency conversion fees apply (specific rates not disclosed)
- Extended trading hours fees: $2 for Standard subscribers, $1 for Premium and Premium+ subscribers
3. Century Financial
When it comes to sheer trading power in the UAE, Century Financial flexes some serious muscle.
Founded in 1989, this Dubai broker provides investors access to over 40,000 instruments across 125 global markets.
We're talking everything from shares and indices to commodities and currencies—spread across 31 countries.
For serious investors seeking comprehensive market access, few trading platforms in the UAE come close.
What sets this veteran broker in Dubai apart is its arsenal of trading platforms.
Beyond standard offerings, traders can choose between Century Traders, TradeRoom, MT5, CQG, TWS, and Qualifier.
Each platform is backed by professional-grade research tools and round-the-clock support. Their offerings are impressive: 330 currency pairs, 2,000+ ETFs, and 130+ commodities.
Plus, with fund protection up to $2 million and SCA regulation, your investments enjoy solid security with this brokerage.
Pricing:
- Commission structures vary by service level
- Custom pricing based on account type and trading volume
- Detailed fee schedules available during consultation
4. Plus500
Looking for one of the best trading platforms in the UAE for CFD trading?
Plus500 pioneered Bitcoin CFDs back in 2013 and now offers over 2,800 instruments across stocks, forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies—all through their sleek WebTrader platform.
Plus500 strikes a rare balance: powerful enough for pros, yet simple enough for beginners.
The trading app interface features over 100 technical indicators and multi-chart viewing without the usual clutter. Traders benefit from essential tools like guaranteed stop-loss orders, real-time quotes, and a Traders' Sentiment indicator that reveals market direction at a glance.
Not to mention, this UAE trading app provides a secure gateway to global CFD trading, backed by DFSA regulation and full support in both English and Arabic.
Pricing:
- Commission-free trading (spreads from 0.8 pips)
- Minimum deposit: $100
- Withdrawal fee: $5 (minimum withdrawal $30)
- Inactivity fee: $10 monthly after three months
5. Amana
Free Middle East and North Africa M9ENA) stock trading up to $100,000—that's not a typo. Amana has dropped every fee for regional investments: no commissions, no clearing charges, nothing.
Since 2010, this Dubai-based broker has grown into a powerhouse, offering 5,500+ instruments across both local and global markets.
The platform stands out where it matters.
Through amanaWeb or MetaTrader 4/5, you get direct access to 2,100+ international stocks and 200+ regional shares.
Start small with fractional trading on premium stocks, while triple regulation from DFSA, FCA, and CySEC keeps your investments secure.
Plus, Amana's partnership with Real Vision—the "Netflix of finance"—gives you serious educational firepower.
Deposit $500, and you unlock $500 worth of professional trading courses, daily market briefings, and analysis from industry giants like Stanley Druckenmiller and Peter Brandt.
Pricing:
- Zero fees on first $100,000 MENA stock investments
- Zero commission on most trades
- Minimum deposit: $50
- Currency conversion fees apply (rates vary)
6. eToro
eToro has UAE traders and Dubai brokers talking—and for good reason.
With a fresh license from Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) in November 2023 and glowing local reviews, this platform stands out for making life easier for investors.
An Investment Trends survey found that UAE traders value exactly what eToro delivers: hassle-free withdrawals, personal account managers, and straightforward educational tools.
Plus, unlike pure online brokers, eToro maintains a physical office on Abu Dhabi's Al Maryah Island.
eToro packs serious trading tools into a package that makes sense. You get professional TradingView charts, a handy Economic Calendar for market updates, and the comprehensive eToro Academy.
Want to trade stocks? Crypto? ETFs? Take your pick—including 80+ cryptocurrencies.
Not only that, with Arabic support, Sharia-compliant accounts, and quick withdrawals (a major plus for UAE traders, according to recent surveys), eToro nails the local essentials while keeping you connected to global markets.
Pricing:
- Minimum deposit: $100 (standard), $500 for bank transfers.
- All transactions are in USD, with currency conversion fees for AED deposits.
- Withdrawal fee: $5 (minimum withdrawal $30).
How to choose the right broker in UAE
Selecting the best trading platform in UAE requires more than just a glance at fee comparisons. Here’s your comprehensive guide to making an informed choice that aligns with your trading goals.
Regulatory compliance
Never compromise on security. Your broker in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE must hold proper licensing from recognized authorities like the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), or Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).
These regulators ensure platforms maintain strict operational standards and protect investor interests through segregated accounts and regular audits.
Trading costs and minimums
Understanding your broker's fee structure is crucial for long-term trading success. Look beyond advertised commission rates—many UAE trading platforms embed costs in spread markups or currency conversion fees.
Consider the full picture: minimum deposit requirements, inactivity charges, and withdrawal fees can significantly impact your trading bottom line.
Some brokers offset higher trading fees with better tools or service, while others compete purely on cost.
Platform features
The best trading app should align with your trading style and experience level. Essential features include real-time market data, robust charting tools, and reliable mobile access.
Advanced traders might prioritize sophisticated technical indicators and customizable interfaces, while beginners should focus on platforms offering comprehensive educational resources and intuitive navigation.
Account types
Different trading goals require different account structures. Most brokers offer tiered accounts with varying benefits and requirements. Consider whether you need:
- Standard vs. premium account features
- Demo account availability for practice
- Islamic (swap-free) account options
- Margin trading capabilities
- Portfolio management services
Payment methods
A broker's payment infrastructure can make or break your trading experience. Efficient funding keeps you agile in fast-moving markets. Look for:
- Local UAE bank transfer options
- Multiple international payment methods
- Competitive currency conversion rates
- Quick withdrawal processing
- Clear fee structures for each payment type
Customer support
Quality support proves its worth during market volatility or technical issues. Your broker should offer 24/5 availability with Arabic language support and multiple contact channels.
A local UAE office presence adds an extra layer of reliability, enabling face-to-face resolution when needed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best stock to invest in UAE?
The UAE markets boast some heavyweight contenders. Real estate giant Emaar Properties continues to shape Dubai's skyline.
Emirates NBD dominates the banking sector. ADNOC Distribution leads the energy space.
But here's the thing—the "best" stock depends entirely on what you're looking for. Are you after growth? Dividends? Long-term stability?
Start by researching these major players on the DFM and ADX, but don't jump in without understanding what fits your investment strategy.
Which bank is best for stock trading in UAE?
While Emirates NBD and other local banks offer trading services, specialized platforms often give you more bang for your buck.
Amana, for instance, lets you trade across six MENA markets—perfect if you want to tap into regional opportunities.
Then there's eToro, which has built a massive community of traders sharing strategies. Your choice really depends on what kind of trader you want to be.
Can I invest in the UAE stock market?
Yes, and it's simpler than you might think. Whether you're a UAE resident or not, you'll need:
- An Investor Number (NIN) from DFM or ADX
- An account with a regulated broker
- Identity verification
- Initial deposit (varies by platform)
Which broker has the lowest spread in UAE?
Numbers matter, but they don't tell the whole story.
From our reviewed platforms, Plus500 offers spreads from 0.01%, while Sarwa's management fees scale from 0.5% to 0.85%. eToro charges no commission on stocks but averages 1% spreads on other assets.
But here's the thing—choosing a broker isn't just about finding the lowest fees. Maybe you need Amana's direct access to MENA markets? Perhaps eToro's social trading features would save you more in the long run by helping you make smarter trades.
Or maybe Century Financial's personalized service better suits your investing style.
Look at the complete package: what markets can you access? How good are their trading tools? Do they offer the support you need? The cheapest option rarely turns out to be the best choice for your trading journey.