Best stock brokers

To guide traders, we’ve researched the best stock brokers in the
UAE and wider GCC.

Best Brokers For Best stock brokers

Summary

Best Online Stock Trading Brokers in Dubai, UAE

This guide is for stock traders in the UAE and GCC who are looking for the best stock broker to trade with. Stock trading has grown massively in popularity in the UAE and globally, leading to hundreds of stock trading brokers now operating in the region. Having such a wide choice of online stock trading brokers can make it hard to differentiate and select the right one.

To make things easier, we have researched and analyzed more than 125 stock brokers available for traders, narrowing it down to 4 of the top stock brokers, based on our evaluation.

Top Picks

Broker Snapshot

A global CFD broker with broad international regulation, including in the UAE from the SCA and DFSA.

The UAE’s neo-broker popular for its range of cryptos and MENA stocks available to trade from its intuitive trading app.

A well-known broker offering thousands of CFDs and real stocks. Excellent for advanced tools and education.

A world-leading broker offering forex along with CFDs on stocks, indices, crypto and commodities at competitive prices.

Risk Disclaimer: Trading involves a high risk to the investor's capital. Between 80% of retail investor accounts lose money with this broker.

Plus500 Summary

Plus500 was founded in 2008 and is publicly listed on the London Stock Exchange, part of the FTSE 250 index. The platform gives traders access to over 2,800 instruments across forex, stocks, indices, commodities, crypto, options and ETFs. It offers a user-friendly platform designed internally by Plus500 with commission-free trading available. Plus500 is regulated in multiple jurisdictions, including the UAE under both the SCA and DFSA.

Why trade stocks with Plus500?

One of Plus500’s strongest features is its extensive coverage of stock CFDs, giving traders access to international markets from a single platform. You can trade well-known US shares alongside equity CFDs from Europe, the UK, Canada, Australia, and even the UAE, offering a straightforward way to diversify across regions and industries.

With leverage of up to 1:100 on stock CFDs, Plus500 provides flexibility for different trading approaches, while still allowing you to manage risk through practical tools built into the platform. This combination of broad market coverage and accessible trading features makes Plus500 a useful option for those interested in global equities.

Stock trading with Plus500: Pros and cons

Stocks from multiple jurisdictions. Trade stocks from over a dozen different exchanges, including local UAE stocks.

Trading academy. Gain access to Plus500’s academy focused on stock trading and learning.

Regulated in UAE. Plus500 is regulated by the SCA and DFSA.

Deposit and withdrawals. Plus500’s deposit and withdrawal options are limited.

No phone support. Plus500 cannot be reached via telephone support.

  • Minimum deposit

    $50

  • Average forex spreads

    1.4 pips

  • Demo account

  • Mobile trading

  • Time to open account

    1 day

  • Forex trading options

    Local MENA and global stocks, forex, crypto, commodities, indices, ETFs

  • Full review

Risk Disclaimer: Trading involves a high risk to the investor's capital. Between 75-90% of retail investor accounts lose money with this broker.

Amana Summary

Amana (amana.app) is a commission-free trading platform that has gained traction in the UAE and the wider MENA region. Known as the UAE’s neo broker, it offers access to a wide variety of financial instruments, including thousands of global and regional stocks, over 450 cryptocurrencies, forex, commodities, and indices. The platform is positioned to appeal to beginner users looking for a low-cost entry into the markets. Amana offers both CFDs and physical investing.

While Amana does offer the classic MT4 and MT5 platforms, it is most well-known for the amana app. The mobile platform provides an interface that is clean and user-friendly, which may be particularly helpful for beginners. Educational content is solid and built into the platform, allowing users to learn as they go—another reason why Amana stands out for those new to investing. Amana is also regulated locally in the UAE by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA). In addition, Amana has regulated entities in other regions, including in Jordan (JSC), Cyprus (CySEC), UK (FCA), Lebanon (CMA), and Mauritius (FSC). 

Why trade stocks with Amana?

Amana offers one of the most extensive selections of stocks available on any regional platform, covering not just the UAE, but also major markets in Egypt, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, alongside the US, UK, and EU. This broad access includes stock CFDs and ETPs, helping traders immensely in terms of stock selection to diversify their portfolio.

The amana app also supports ETF trading and fractional investing, which allows users to purchase a portion of a share rather than a full one. This is a great and generally difficult to find option for investors who want to invest smaller amounts or diversify more broadly across expensive stocks.

In terms of cost, amana offers zero commission, zero exchange fees, and zero clearing fees on the first $100,000 invested. Overall, we found amana’s stock trading fees to be low. The platform provides 24/6 customer support in both English and Arabic, reflecting its deep regional focus.

The amana app is also designed to consolidate all stock trading activities in one place—from depositing and withdrawing funds to market analysis and education. It features a clean interface, customizable watchlists, and integrated market news. Users also gain free access to premium financial courses through a partnership with Real Vision, directly within the app.

Stock trading with Amana: Pros and cons

✅ Regulated in the UAE. Amana is licensed by the DFSA and SCA.

✅ Huge stock selection. Trade US, UK, EU and MENA stocks.

✅ Low minimum deposit. Amana has a low $50 minimum deposit.

✅ Low stock fees. No clearing fees on first $100,000 invested.

✅ Great education. Real Vision courses available on the app.

✅ Local support. 24/6 trading support in English and Arabic.

✅ CFDs and investing. Clients can day-trade stocks or invest long-term.

✅ Fractional stock investing. Traders can invest in a fraction of a stock.

✅ Negative balance protection. Traders are protected from their trading balance moving into negative territory.

❌ Limited base currencies. Accounts only offered in USD base currency.

❌ Lacking research tools. Research & analysis tools could be better.

❌ Slightly higher spreads. Spreads can be on the high side for some instruments.

❌ Lower leverage. Trading leverage is low on some instruments.

  • Minimum deposit

    $250

  • Average forex spreads

    0.8 pips

  • Demo account

  • Mobile trading

  • Time to open account

    2-3 days

  • Forex trading options

    Forex, stocks, indices, commodities, ETFs, bonds

  • Full review

Risk Disclaimer: Trading involves a high risk to the investor's capital. 61% of retail investor accounts lose money with this broker.

Admirals Summary

Admirals, formerly known as Admiral Markets, is a globally regulated trading broker offering a wide range of leveraged CFD products and physical investments in stocks and ETFs. Regulated in the UAE, UK, Cyprus, Australia, Jordan, South Africa, Seychelles, and Estonia, Admirals is known for its strong regulatory framework and high international presence. With over 20 years in the industry, the broker supports trading across forex, indices, commodities, bonds, cryptocurrencies, and thousands of global stocks and ETFs, providing traders with flexibility and access to over 8,000 instruments.

Users can trade on MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, both supported by Admirals’ enhanced MetaTrader Supreme Edition. Alternatively, Admirals have their own proprietary web and mobile platforms. The broker also emphasizes education and analysis, offering in-depth resources such as webinars, trading tutorials, and premium market insights. We found that Admirals provides multiple account types, competitive spreads, and a balanced mix of tools aimed at both beginner and advanced traders. Multilingual 24/5 customer support and a focus on security and user experience is another reason why we rate Admirals highly. Overall, the broker is a reliable choice for global and regional traders/investors.

Why trade stocks with Admirals?

Admirals offer a flexible approach to stock trading. Clients can either trade CFDs on global equities or invest directly in physical stocks and ETFs with full ownership rights. This dual model gives investors the choice to speculate on price movements or build a long-term stock investment portfolio. 

One standout feature when it comes to investing is the ability to invest in fractional shares, meaning you can buy a portion of a stock rather than a whole share—ideal for diversifying even with smaller amounts. For example, instead of purchasing an entire high-priced share, you can start with as little as €1 or $1 and invest in just 1/100 of a share or ETF unit.

This approach supports smarter diversification, where investors can design their own balanced portfolios without being limited by the high cost of individual share prices. It is also worth highlighting Admirals’ strong suite of trading education tools and premium research content, making it easier for stock traders to make better-informed decisions. 

For UAE traders, the platform supports convenient funding methods like bank transfers, Visa/MasterCard payments, and e-wallets such as Neteller, Skrill, and PayPal—with no additional transfer fees. These features, combined with access to thousands of global stocks and ETFs, make Admirals a practical and accessible choice for stock investing in the region.

Stock trading with Admirals: Pros and cons

Diverse trading options. Access to over 4,500 stocks.

Fractional shares. Invest in portions of stocks or ETFs from $1.

Global regulation. Licensed in UAE, UK, Cyprus, Australia, Jordan, Seychelles, South Africa, and Estonia.

Educational resources. Comprehensive webinars, tutorials, premium research content.

Multiple platforms. Offers MT4, MT5 and the Admirals platform/app.

Flexible funding methods. Supports bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets.

 

❌ Low leverage. For retail clients, leverage is capped at 1:30.

❌ Inactivity fee. Monthly fee of €10 is charged after 24 months of account inactivity.

❌ Mobile app limitations: The Admirals app, while functional, lacks some advanced features.

  • Minimum deposit

    $10

  • Average forex spreads

    1 pip (EURUSD)

  • Demo account

  • Mobile trading

  • Time to open account

    1 day

  • Forex trading options

    Forex, stocks, indices, commodities, crypto

  • Full review

Risk Disclaimer: Trading involves a high risk to the investor's capital. Between 74-89% of retail investor accounts lose money with this broker.

Exness Summary

Exness is a globally-recognized stock CFD broker known for having tight spreads, lightning-fast execution, and remarkably transparent trading conditions. Founded in 2008, Exness has earned the trust of millions of traders through its offering of robust platforms like MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, and its own proprietary trading platform. Exness is also well-known for having almost-instant withdrawals, 24/7 customer support, and no hidden fees.

What sets Exness apart is its dynamic and unlimited leverage, low minimum deposit, and commission-free trading options, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced stock traders. They have multiple regulatory licenses—including CySEC and the FSCA, promising a secure and compliant trading environment.

Why trade stocks with Exness?

We rate Exness as our top pick for stock trading. While many brokers claim tight spreads and fast execution, Exness consistently delivers all these across a wide range of US-listed stocks, platforms and market conditions.

One of the standout features is Exness’ market access to over 1000 stock CFDs listed on the top US exchanges like the Dow 30, the S&P 500, and the Nasdaq 100. This extensive selection offers stock traders flexibility to choose the markets that suit their strategies.

Stock spreads at Exness remain low and stable, even during high-impact news events like NFP, CPI or FOMC. As the US stock market is known for volatility, this high level of consistency adds a layer of predictability that traders appreciate. Combine this with lightning-fast millisecond execution speeds, it ensures that stock traders can react quickly to market moves without delay.

Another feature that’s worth highlighting is Stop Out Protection—a mechanism designed to protect stock traders from unnecessary stop outs during brief volatility in the equity markets. For those navigating leveraged stock trades, this protection can be the difference between maintaining or losing a position prematurely.

Traders also have access to swap-free stock trading options, making Exness a viable choice for stock traders who follow Islamic finance principles. Additionally, we found that funds are accessible without long hold-ups, allowing for smooth, delay-free withdrawals.

Last of all, platform flexibility is a strong plus with Exness. If you prefer traditional platforms, Exness offers the classic MT5 and MT5 suite across all devices. Or if you’re looking for a more modern and feature-heavy platform option, the Exness Web Terminal and Exness Trade app make stock CFD trading smooth and seamless.

Stock trading with Exness: Pros and cons

✅ Ultra-tight, stable spreads. Competitive spreads even during volatile news events.

✅ 1000+ US stocks. Stock trading available across Wall Street’s top names.

✅ Swap-free account options. Ideal for traders seeking Sharia-compliant solutions.

✅ Multiple trading platforms. Stock trading supported on MT4, MT5, Exness Web Terminal, and Exness App 

✅ Regulated in multiple jurisdictions. Adds credibility and high level of trader protection.

 

❌ Limited educational resources. Not as strong as other brokers when it comes to beginner training or in-depth trading guides.

❌ Less markets than most. Exness does not offer as many markets as other brokers.

❌ High cost for social trading. Minimum of $500 to copy-trade, $2,000 to be a strategy provider.

Your Guide to Find the Best Stock Brokers in the UAE and GCC

Looking for the best stock brokers in Dubai? Check out our in-depth broker reviews and choose the right one today.

Choosing the best stock broker requires careful consideration of regulation, trading conditions, fees, and customer support. A well-regulated and reputable broker will provide a secure trading environment, competitive spreads, and access to global markets. For traders in Dubai and wider region, the top stock brokers offer:

  • Strong regulatory compliance
  • Low spreads & fast execution
  • Advanced trading platforms
  • Islamic stock trading options
  • Reliable customer support

If you’re ready to start stock trading, explore our expert reviews and compare the best stock trading brokers UAE to find the perfect platform for your needs.

FAQ

Not all stock brokers in Dubai offer the same trading conditions. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the best stock broker in UAE:

  • Regulation & Security – Look for brokers licensed by authorities such as the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) or Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) to ensure safety and fund protection.
  • Trading Platforms & Tools – The best stock brokers in Dubai offer advanced MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), or proprietary trading platforms with fast execution and advanced charting tools.
  • Competitive Spreads & Low Fees – Trading costs impact profitability. The top stock brokers in UAE offer low spreads, minimal commissions, and transparent fees.
  • Account Types & Leverage – Whether you’re a beginner or professional trader, choose a broker that offers flexible leverage, demo accounts, and different trading options.
  • Islamic Stock Accounts – Many brokers in Dubai offer swap-free Islamic trading accounts that comply with Shariah principles.
  • Fast Deposits & Withdrawals – The best stock brokers online UAE provide seamless deposit and withdrawal options through local banks, e-wallets, and credit cards.
  • Customer Support – Trading support should be available 24/5 or 24/7, preferably in multiple languages, including Arabic and English.
  • By focusing on these factors, you can confidently select the best stock trading broker Dubai that matches your trading style and needs.

Yes, stock trading is fully legal in Dubai and the UAE. However, while it’s legal for individuals to trade stocks via CFDs, offering stock trading brokerage services or managing funds on behalf of others without a proper license is illegal. Always ensure you trade with a fully regulated stock broker in Dubai to protect your funds.

Stock brokers operating in Dubai and the UAE must comply with strict regulations set by financial authorities such as:

  • Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) – Regulates brokers operating in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
  • Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) – Regulates brokers serving UAE residents outside the DIFC.
  • ADGM’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority – The financial regulator and an international financial center in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Choosing a regulated stock broker licensed by any of the above ensures your funds are protected, and you are trading in a secure and legally compliant environment.

Getting started with stock trading in Dubai is straightforward if you follow these key steps:

  • Learn the Basics – Stock trading itself can take time to master, so education is essential. Learn about how stocks work, market analysis, risk management, and trading strategies.
  • Choose a Trusted Broker – Use this page to compare top stock brokers in Dubai and select a regulated, low-cost, and feature-rich platform.
  • Open an Account – Sign up with your chosen broker and verify your identity by submitting the required KYC documents.
  • Start with a Demo Account – Before trading live, practice with a demo account to test strategies and get comfortable with the platform.
  • Fund Your Account – Deposit funds through bank transfers, credit cards, or e-wallets and select the right trading account type.
  • Develop a Trading Strategy – Set realistic goals, risk management plans, and trade execution rules to maximize your chances of success.
  • Analyze Market Trends & Trade – Stay updated on economic events, news, and technical indicators to make informed trading decisions.
  • Monitor & Improve – Stock trading is a long-term game. Continuously analyze your performance and refine your strategies over time.

Following these steps will help you trade profitably and safely with the best stock brokers online Dubai.

Yes, UAE residents can trade with international stock brokers, but it’s crucial to make sure the broker you choose is regulated in respected jurisdictions (like the UK’s FCA or Australia’s ASIC). Keep in mind, choosing a locally regulated broker under SCA, DFSA or ADGM’s FSRA provides more protection for local stock traders and will align better with UAE financial regulations.

No, stock trading is not taxable in the UAE. While many other countries will require traders to report capital gains or trading income, Dubai and the wider UAE have no personal income tax, making it a tax-efficient location to trade stocks freely.

Risk Disclaimer:

Trading involves risk to your capital. As a general rule, you should only trade in financial products that you are familiar with and understand the risk associated with them. The risk warning described in each financial product below is not exhaustive, you should carefully consider your investment experience, financial situation, investment objective, risk tolerance level and consult your independent financial adviser as to the suitability of your situation prior making any investment.