Best Trading Platforms in UAE for 2025
Published: May 28, 2025
Author:
Howayt Fasil
Fact Checked:
Samir Khalidi
Online trading in Dubai is increasingly popular because of its accessible way of getting wealth, including the ability to fund accounts in USD or local currency equivalents, such as UAE dirhams (AED). In this competitive industry, selecting the right forex broker can be a turning point to your success. This is the guide to the top trading platforms, with an analysis of their features and benefits and what makes them the best amongst their peers in the forex industry.
Our Top 10 Trading Platforms in UAE
These trading platforms in Dubai are the best of the best, with each one offering something a little different that makes it a good choice for the local market:
1. FBS
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FBS is a trading brand in the trading market, known for tight spreads, several types of accounts, and platforms like MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and FBS Trader app. FBS — Renowned For Forex Education Resources, provides demo accounts for newbies and extensive training materials. FBS is a well-known broker on the global market with plenty of advanced features and instruments for advanced and novice users. What is unique is its commitment to exemplary service to its clients.
Pros:
- Wide Range of Forex Education: Various Forex educational resources, including tutorials, webinars, and multiple movers market guides.
- Low Spreads: Starting from just 0.7 pips on selected accounts.
- Trading Platforms: Includes MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), FBS Trader mobile app.
- Demo Accounts: New traders can practice in risk-free environments with a demo account.
- Flexible Leverage: Allows leverage of up to 1:3000 for those more adventurous trading strategies.
Cons:
- Higher Costs on Premium Accounts: Some advanced account may incur higher trading fees.
- Complexity for Beginners: The variety of account types and trading conditions may be overwhelming for new users without proper guidance.
2. Interactive Brokers (IBKR)
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Interactive Brokers is a popular broker for those who actively trade. The platform provides a wide range of options with which to invest and has low fees for executing trades. Also, one should notice that it has got many powerful features and offers access to the global market, making it the most convenient for professional trading.
Pros:
- Low Trading Fees: Competitive pricing across various asset classes.
- Wide Range of Tradable Assets: Access to global markets and diverse instruments.
- Advanced Trading Tools: Robust platforms with comprehensive research capabilities.
Cons:
- Complex Platform Interface: Steep learning curve for new users.
- Lengthy Account Setup: Account opening process can be time-consuming.
- Limited Customer Support: Users report challenges in reaching support services.
3. SaxoTraderGO
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SaxoTraderGO is a versatile trading platform developed by Saxo Bank, providing access to a wide array of financial instruments, including stocks, bonds, forex, commodities, and CFDs. The platform is tailored to meet the needs of both novice and experienced traders, offering advanced charting tools and a customizable interface. Saxo Bank, established in 1992 and headquartered in Denmark, is regulated by multiple financial authorities, ensuring a secure trading environment.
Pros:
- Comprehensive Market Access: Wide range of instruments across global markets.
- Advanced Trading Tools: Professional-grade charting and analysis features.
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive design catering to both beginners and professionals.
Cons:
- High Minimum Deposits: Requires significant initial investment for premium accounts.
- No MetaTrader Support: Does not integrate with popular platforms like MT4 or MT5.
- Limited Educational Resources: Lacks comprehensive learning materials for new traders.
4. XTB
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XTB is a global brokerage firm offering trading services in forex, indices, commodities, stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies through its proprietary platform, xStation 5. Founded in 2002, XTB is regulated by several financial authorities, including the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, comprehensive educational resources, and responsive customer support. XTB caters to both beginner and experienced traders seeking a reliable and efficient trading environment.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Platform: xStation 5 offers intuitive navigation and features.
- Comprehensive Educational Resources: Extensive materials for trader development.
- Responsive Customer Support: High-quality assistance for users.
Cons:
- Inactivity Fees: Charges apply for dormant accounts.
- Limited Product Range: Focuses mainly on CFDs; lacks broader asset classes.
- Regulatory Issues: Past fines and warnings from financial authorities.
5. eTORO
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eToro is a usual selection for people who want to invest, thanks to the platform being easy to use and the attractive extra feature of social trading which lets you replicate the trades experienced investors made. It's very good for beginning with stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. However, the fees might be above the average which is one disadvantage of the platform, while another is the lack of advanced tools for traders with experience.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Interface: The design is easy to understand, which makes it appropriate for the ones who are new to this trading world.
- Social Trading Features: It permits one to copy the trades of people skilled in investment.
- Commission-Free Stock Trading: Simply put, there are no fees involved in stock trade.
Cons:
- Withdrawal and Inactivity Fees: One would have to pay charges when money is taken or the account is not active.
- Limited Customer Support: Standard support is limited; enhanced support requires higher-tier membership.
- Restricted Crypto Offerings: Limited number of cryptocurrencies available for trading.
6. AvaTrade
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AvaTrade is a well-regulated broker with a solid international presence. Renowned for its stability, it has many trading assets, from forex to stocks to cryptocurrencies. AvaTrade has several platforms available, which is a plus for different types of traders. The high minimum deposit and slow withdrawal processes make it less attractive for new users.
Pros:
- Trustworthy and Controlled: Functions with intercontinental supervision.
- Diverse instrument choices: forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, etc.
Cons:
- Large Minimum Deposit: Not friendly to budget-challenged traders.
- Limited Customization: No flexibility for the advanced trader.
- Withdrawal Delays: A user claims it takes time to process their money.
7. XM Trading
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XM Trading is an established broker that focuses on the interest of retail customers and is easy to use for newbies. Especially suitable for those who are new to trading, it has low minimum deposits and a full range of educational facilities. XM provides stable platforms and transparent pricing for a seamless trading experience. On the other hand, its forex orientation restricts the range of instruments for advanced traders.
Pros:
- User-Friendly: Great for anyone, especially entry-level traders, due to a minimal barrier to setup.
- Educational Content: Provides access to webinars, tutorials, and trading guides.
- Small Deposit: This makes it simple to get started in trading.
Cons:
- Restricted Number of Instruments: Primarily forex-driven, so fewer CFDs.
- Support Limitations: The customer service is not 24/7.
- Withdrawal Fees: Certain accounts may incur high fees for extracting funds.
8. DEGIRO
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DEGIRO is a Dutch-based online brokerage firm founded in 2008, offering low-cost trading services across various European markets. The platform is designed for retail investors seeking access to a broad range of financial instruments, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, and derivatives. DEGIRO's user-friendly interface and competitive fee structure make it an attractive option for cost-conscious traders. The company operates under the supervision of the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) and the Dutch Central Bank (DNB).
Pros:
- Low-Cost Trading: Offers some of the lowest fees in the market.
- No Minimum Deposit: Allows users to start trading without a minimum balance.
- User-Friendly Platform: Simple interface suitable for beginners.
Cons:
- Limited Product Range: Does not offer forex or cryptocurrency trading.
- Customer Service Issues: Reports of delayed responses and limited support.
- IT Infrastructure Concerns: Past issues with platform stability and outages.
9. Sarwa
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Sarwa is a UAE-based fintech company offering automated investment advisory services, combining robo-advisory with human financial experts. The platform provides diversified portfolios of low-cost index funds, tailored to individual risk profiles. Sarwa aims to simplify investing for beginners, with features like automatic rebalancing and low fees. The company is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).
Pros:
- Low Fees: Cost-effective investment options.
- User-Friendly App: Simplified interface ideal for beginners.
- Access to Human Advisors: Combines robo-advisory with personal financial advice.
Cons:
- Limited Asset Variety: Primarily focused on US markets; lacks global diversification.
- Short Track Record: Relatively new with limited historical performance data.
- Withdrawal Delays: Some users report issues with timely fund withdrawals.
10. Plus500
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Plus500 is a simple broker, which makes it a good choice for beginners. Users wanting an all-things trading-free experience are attracted to its intuitive platform design and general straightforwardness. And provides plenty of CFD to choose from, especially for traders looking for diversification. That said, the absence of MT4/MT5 and the expensive trading costs may turn away more experienced users.
Pros:
- Easy to use UI: Simple to use even for novice designers.
- Diverse Range of CFDs — access multiple different markets, including forex and commodities.
Cons:
- No MT4 or MT5 Support: Does not support the industry-standard trading platforms.
- Wider Spreads: The trading costs are in the higher range.
- Lack of Advanced Tools: Not ideal for professional traders.
Key Features to Look for in a Forex Broker
Low Spreads and Fees
Low spreads and transparent fees are essential to maximize profits. Select brokers that offer the best price without skimping on service.
Diversity of Trading Assets
The platform features a wide selection of instruments, such as currency pairs, CFDs, and commodities, which traders can use to diversify their portfolios and exploit several opportunities.
Reliable Trading Platforms
Reliable trading platforms like MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 provide professional functions, including personalized tools, live forex signals, and one-click execution.
| Brokers | Trading Platform | Min Deposit | Leverage | Spread |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FBS | MT4, MT5, FBS Trader | $5 | Up to 1:3000 | From 0.7 pips |
| Interactive Brokers (IBKR) | Trader Workstation, IBKR Mobile | $0 | Up to 1:400 | From 0.1 pips |
| SaxoTraderGO | SaxoTraderGO | Varies | Up to 1:100 | From 0.4 pips |
| XTB | xStation 5 | No minimum | Up to 1:30 | From 0.1 pips |
| eToro | eToro Web Platform, Mobile App | $50–$200 | Up to 1:30 | Typically above 1.0 pips |
| AvaTrade | MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGo | $100 | Up to 1:30 | From 0.9 pips |
| XM Trading | MT4, MT5, XM WebTrader | $5 | Up to 1:1000 | From 0.8 pips |
| DEGIRO | DEGIRO Web Platform, Mobile App | €0.01 | Not offered | Market-based |
| Sarwa | Sarwa Web Platform, Mobile App | $1 | Not offered | 0.25% fee per trade |
| Plus500 | Proprietary Platform (Web & Mobile) | $100 | Up to 1:30 | From 0.8 pips |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is online trading legal in the UAE?
Yes, online trading is legal and regulated here. The primary regulatory bodies include the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), and the Central Bank of the UAE. These authorities oversee financial activities to ensure investor protection and market integrity.
Which trading platforms are recommended for beginners?
Best trading platforms For Beginners — FBS & XM are for newcomers and offer extensive forex education, demos, and easy-to-use platforms.
What factors should I consider when choosing a trading platform in Dubai?
Key considerations include:
- Regulation: Ensure the platform is licensed by reputable authorities like the SCA or DFSA.
- Fees and Commissions: Compare trading fees, spreads, and any hidden charges.
- Asset Variety: Look for platforms offering a diverse range of instruments, including stocks, forex, and cryptocurrencies.
- User Experience: A platform with a user-friendly interface and responsive customer support enhances trading efficiency.
- Educational Resources: Access to tutorials, webinars, and market analyses can be beneficial, especially for beginners.
What is the minimum deposit needed to start trading?
The minimum deposit varies across platforms. Some platforms allow you to start with as little as $5 (around 18 dirhams – AED), while others may require higher initial deposits. It's crucial to choose a platform that aligns with your budget and trading goals.
Do I need to pay taxes on trading profits?
As of 2025, the UAE does not impose taxes on individual trading profits. This tax-free environment makes it an attractive destination for traders. However, it's advisable to consult with a tax professional, especially if you're a foreign national, to understand any obligations in your home country.