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Affiliate Disclosure DailyForex.com adheres to strict guidelines to preserve editorial integrity to help you make decisions with confidence. Some of the reviews and content we feature on this site are supported by affiliate partnerships from which this website may receive money. This may impact how, where and which companies / services we review and write about. Our team of experts work to continually re-evaluate the reviews and information we provide on all the top Forex / CFD brokerages featured here. Our research focuses heavily on the broker’s custody of client deposits and the breadth of its client offering. Safety is evaluated by quality and length of the broker's track record, plus the scope of regulatory standing. Major factors in determining the quality of a broker’s offer include the cost of trading, the range of instruments available to trade, and general ease of use regarding execution and market information.

Forex Brokers in Dubai and UAE

By Huzefa Hamid
Reviewer Adam Lemon
Fact-checker DailyForex.com Team

I’m a trader and manage my own capital. I trade the major Forex pairs, some Futures contracts, and I rely entirely on Technical Analysis to place my trades. Today, I am also a Senior Analyst for DailyForex.com. I began trading the markets in the early 1990s, at the age of sixteen. I had a few hundred British pounds saved up (I grew up in England), with which I was able to open a small account with some help from my Dad. I started my trading journey by buying UK equities that I had read about in the business sections of newspapers. The 1990s were a bull market, so naturally, I made money. I was fortunate enough in my early twenties to have a friend that recommended a Technical Analysis course run by a British trader who emphasized raw chart analysis without indicators. Having this first-principles approach to charts influences how I trade to this day.

Adam Lemon began his role at DailyForex in 2013 when he was brought in as an in-house Chief Analyst. Adam trades Forex, stocks and other instruments in his own account. Adam believes that it is very possible for retail traders/investors to secure a positive return over time provided they limit their risks, follow trends, and persevere through short-term losing streaks – provided only reputable brokerages are used. He has previously worked within financial markets over a 12-year period, including 6 years with Merrill Lynch.

The DailyForex.com team is comprised of analysts and researchers from around the world who watch the market throughout the day to provide you with unique perspectives and helpful analysis that can help improve your Forex trading.

A growing number of international Forex brokers have opened subsidiaries in Dubai, the financial center of the Middle East and the fastest-growing Forex market there excepting only Saudi Arabia.
We have extensively reviewed both Forex brokers with a local presence and those catering to residents of the U.A.E. to help you decide which brokers are worth considering for opening a Forex account from Dubai, or from outside Dubai where you are looking for an offshore broker in Dubai. We present our results below.

Top Forex Trading in Dubai

1
4.8/5
The ratings shown on DailyForex.com are determined by hours of research from our editorial team into over 10 factors, including account fees, deposit/withdrawal options, regulatory status, tradable assets, and more.
Best all around broker
High floating leverage + fast execution
2
4.6/5
The ratings shown on DailyForex.com are determined by hours of research from our editorial team into over 10 factors, including account fees, deposit/withdrawal options, regulatory status, tradable assets, and more.
Transparent Islamic accounts upon request.
Excellent education for beginners on the website and via the spun-out Ava Academy.
3
4.5/5
The ratings shown on DailyForex.com are determined by hours of research from our editorial team into over 10 factors, including account fees, deposit/withdrawal options, regulatory status, tradable assets, and more.
Arabic website & industry-leading selection exceeding 26,000 assets.
API trading & VPS hosting for low-latency 24/5 Forex trading.
4
4.5/5
The ratings shown on DailyForex.com are determined by hours of research from our editorial team into over 10 factors, including account fees, deposit/withdrawal options, regulatory status, tradable assets, and more.
ECN-style trading
Daily market research and Autochartist access
5
4.2/5
The ratings shown on DailyForex.com are determined by hours of research from our editorial team into over 10 factors, including account fees, deposit/withdrawal options, regulatory status, tradable assets, and more.
UK-regulated subsidiary & GBP and crypto deposits and withdrawals.
Excellent beginner education and research via Eightcap Labs & Trade Zone.

  • FXTM, Best all-around broker with high floating leverage and fast execution.
  • AvaTrade, Highly regulated, choice of fixed or floating spreads.
  • BlackBull Markets, Best ECN trading environment, with scalping and hedging.
  • FP Markets, ECN trading with leverage up to 1:500.
  • Eightcap, Competitive pricing + excellent daily videos.

Best Dubai Brokers Comparison

Regulators
CMA, FCA, FSC Mauritius, FSCAASIC, BVI, Central Bank of Ireland, FFAJ, FSCA, KNF, MiFIDFMA, FSAASIC, CMA, CySEC, FSCAASIC, CySEC, FCA, SCB
Year Established
20112006201420052009
Execution Type(s)
ECN/STP, Market MakerMarket MakerECN/STP, No Dealing DeskECN/STPECN/STP, Market Maker
Minimum Deposit
$200
$100
$0
$100
$100
Average Trading Cost EUR/USD
0.1 pips0.9 pips1.3 pips1.2 pips1.0 pips
Average Trading Cost GBP/USD
0.2 pips1.5 pips2.0 pips1.4 pips1.2 pips
Average Trading Cost Gold
$0.18 $0.29 $0.90 $0.16$0.12
Trading Platform(s)
MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Proprietary platformOther, MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Proprietary platform, Web-based+MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, Trading ViewMetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, Proprietary platform, Web-basedMetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Trading View
Islamic Account
Negative Balance Protection
N/A

FXTM

In Summary Best all-around broker with high floating leverage and fast execution

Dubai forex traders have a number of-top tier forex brokers available to them, allowing for plenty of scope when it comes to trading n forex, CFDs, cryptos and more. FXTM, also known simply as “Forex Time”, has been around since 2011, and offer a fairly broad product range which includes a number of popular cryptocurrencies, 62 currency pairs and crosses, 11 stock index CFDs, 172 stock CFDs, and 3 commodity CFDs. The available bundle includes gold, silver, natural gas and crude oil. In addition, FXTM allows clients to trade in stocks that are not wrapped in CFDs, allowing traders to take direct legal ownership of shares (buying them), just like you’d find with a traditional stockbroker. The FXTM brand is comprised of three main bases of operation: namely FXTM Mauritius, FXTM Cyprus, and FXTM UK.

FXTM Pros & Cons

Read more on FXTM »
4.8/5 in this category

Pros & Cons

  • Excellent commission-based Forex pricing environment and transparency
  • Upgraded MT4/MT5 trading platforms plus proprietary mobile trading app
  • Quality market research and educational content for beginner traders
  • A highly regulated broker with a tier-1 license
  • Limited Choice of commodities

AvaTrade

In Summary Highly regulated, choice of fixed or floating spreads

AvaTrade belongs among the best Forex brokers in the UAE due to its choice of trading platforms. Ava Options, Ava Social, WebTrader, and AvaTradeGO are available alongside MT4/MT5. WebTrader and AvaTradeGO have embedded Trading Central services, providing traders an edge. The Guardian Angel plugin upgrades MT4/MT5, while the fee-based Ava Protect insurance policy protects against losing trades.

Traders get a reasonably priced commission-free cost structure, and the well-balanced asset selection includes options, cryptocurrencies, and ETFs. AvaTrade offers VPS hosting for 24/5 low-latency trading. It serves the UAE from its Abu Dhabi Global Markets Financial Services Regulatory Authority licensed subsidiary.

Read more on AvaTrade »
4.6/5 in this category

Pros & Cons

  • High quality educational offering via AvaAcademy
  • Excellent choice of trading platforms catering to various trading needs
  • Broad asset selection and cross-asset diversification opportunities
  • Well-regulated and trusted broker with oversight from a central bank
  • Trading costs competitive but nothing special

BlackBull Markets

In Summary Best ECN trading environment, with scalping and hedging

BlackBull Markets belongs among the best Forex brokers in the UAE for its institutional-grade trading conditions via Equinix servers co-located in New York (NY4), London (LD5), and Tokyo (TY3), enabling an average order execution speed of less than 75 milliseconds. Ultra-competitive Forex trading fees feature raw spreads from 0.0 pips for a commission between $4.00 and $6.00 per lot, while data feeds of 66+ third-party providers ensure ultra-deep liquidity.

Traders can use MT4/MT5 and cTrader, which support algorithmic trading. Social traders can connect to TradingView, and copy traders can diversify through BlackBull Markets CopyTrader, ZuluTrade, and Myfxbook Autotrade.

Read more on BlackBull Markets »
4.5/5 in this category

Pros & Cons

  • ECN/NDD execution model with deep liquidity
  • Institution-grade pricing for retail traders via proprietary price aggregation
  • ZuluTrade and Myfxbook for social trading
  • Leverage of up to 1:500
  • Limited deposit options

FP Markets

In Summary ECN trading with leverage up to 1:500

There are a number of top forex and CFD brokerage options available to traders in Dubai. This includes the likes of FPMarkets, one of the world’s most popular forex and CFD brokers. Based in Australia and established in 2005, FPMarkets offers the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) as well as the MetaTrader 5 (MT5) trading platforms, alongside WebTrader and IRESS platforms. Clients can enjoy trading in over 10,000 different shares and stocks, as well as over 60 forex pairs and crosses, 5 cryptocurrencies, 11 equity indices, all of the major commodities, and a number of top publicly traded shares traded on both the Sydney and the Hong Kong stock exchanges.

FPMarkets Pros & Cons

Read more on FP Markets »
4.5/5 in this category

Pros & Cons

  • Choice of trading platforms and auxiliary trading tools
  • Very competitive cost structure and excellent asset selection
  • Low minimum deposit requirement and leverage of up to 1:500
  • Well-regulated and trustworthy
  • Availability of Iress geographically restricted

Eightcap

In Summary Competitive pricing + excellent daily videos

Based in Australia, EightCap is a leading forex and CFD broker with over ten years of experience in the industry. Also sometimes referred to as 8Cap, this broker was established in 2009, and is considered reliable and trustworthy, based on several factors including regulatory licensing. EightCap is licensed through several top regulators including the much-respected Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), with additional licensing via the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission. EightCap offers one of the lowest forex fees out of all Australian forex brokers. This is especially true for clients that open a Raw account. For example, USD/EUR account fees are low with a $3.5 commission: with an average spread during peak trading hours of 0.1 pips.

EightCap Pros & Cons

Read more on Eightcap »
4.2/5 in this category

Pros & Cons

  • Low minimum deposit and high leverage of up to 1:500
  • Competitive cost structure
  • Excellent technology infrastructure and seasoned management team
  • Daily research and quality educational content
  • Limited leverage in some areas

Top Forex Brokers & Trading Apps in Dubai

Our Rating
4.5
5.0
4.5
4.5
4.5
Full Review
Retail Loss Rate
70.70%
77.0%
71.0%
Undisclosed
Undisclosed
DFSARegulation
No
No
No
No
No
Minimum Raw Spreads
0.0 pips
0.0 pips
Not Applicable
0.0 pips
0.0 pips
Minimum Standard Spreads
1.0 pips
1.5 pips
0.9 pips
0.8 pips
1.0 pips
Minimum Commission for Forex
$6.00 per Round Lot
$0.80 perRound Lot
Commission-free
$6.00 per Round Lot
$7.00 per Round Lot
Commission for CFDs/DMA
0.10% or $0.03 per share
Commission-free
Commission-free
0.002%
Commission-free
Commission Rebates
No
No
Not Applicable
Yes
No
Minimum Deposit
$100
$50
$100
$0
$100
Demo Account
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Managed Account
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
Islamic Account
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
No
Inactivity Fee
No
$5 monthly after six months
$50 monthly after three months
No
No
Deposit Fee
Third-Party
Third-Party
Third-Party
Third-Party
Third-Party
Withdrawal Fee
Third-Party
Yes + Third-Party
Third-Party
Third-Party
Third-Party
Funding Methods
19
47
5
5
13

One of the first choices anyone located in Dubai must make when looking for a new broker is whether to go for one which is located and regulated in Dubai or not. Forex brokers regulated in Dubai operate under the oversight of the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). While the DFSA has a reputation as a light regulator, it ensures a highly competitive as well as relatively secure trading environment for Forex trading in Dubai. It also serves as one of the best jurisdictions for Forex brokers to use as a gateway to the MEASA region, which represents one of the fastest-growing sectors for financial services. Therefore, when you see a Forex broker setting up in Dubai, you usually see one that wants to expand, and as such may be focusing on making a very competitive offering to clients.

Choosing a Forex Broker in Dubai

If you are going to choose a Forex broker physically located in Dubai, we think that an international Forex broker with a regulated subsidiary in Dubai will be likely to be the best choice. This can ensure a track record in other jurisdictions, as many local Dubai Forex brokers have not been in business for a very long time. The longer a broker has successfully conducted business, the better run it is likely to be. Longevity is a reliable heuristic here.

The best Dubai Forex brokers will also maintain deposit and withdrawal options via local payment processors or banks and Arabic language customer support.

Now you’ve got through important safety issues, you can consider what the broker has to offer. Is the cost of trading there competitive or not? Check spreads, commissions, and other incidental fees. Traders who are planning to keep trades open over the New York rollover at the end of the trading day there should also consider the overnight swaps typically offered. Unfortunately, some brokers abuse this typically “hidden” fee.

Finally, examine the “nice to have” elements, such as the range of tradable instruments, quality of customer support, and trading platforms. Going through the process in this order should ensure you end up opening an account with the best Dubai Forex broker for you.

Is Forex Legal in Dubai?

Forex trading is completely legal in Dubai, in fact its hard to think of a place where it is more legal, as Dubai has been a low tax, offshore, trade-friendly financial center for many years. The U.A.E. does not levy income tax on individuals, so if retail traders are able to generate a profit from Forex and CFD trading, they can keep it all. What may be illegal is taking deposits from other retail traders and trading on their behalf without having an appropriate regulatory license to do so.

UAE Forex Regulation

Forex Brokers in Dubai rank among the most trusted and well-regulated ones in the Middle East and have an expanding international footprint. The Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) is the primary regulator for Forex / CFD brokers. Additionally, each emirate has its financial regulator, with the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) being the most established.

The CBUAE ensures brokers follow established guidelines, including Sharia law. Requirements for Forex / CFD brokers to obtain a license consist of having a UAE citizen as the intermediary Forex broker, a minimum of 60% of paid-up share capital with local banks and contributed by UAE citizens, and capital requirements between DH1 million and DH3 million, which is approximately $270,000 to $815,000, dependent on the scope of brokerage activities.

Dubai emerged as a global financial center, and many international Forex brokers chose it as their hub for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), making the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) the financial regulator of choice. The DFSA maintains a well-trusted and competitive Forex trading environment.

How to Start Trading Forex in Dubai

Dubai serves as a gateway to the MENA region, as Forex brokers in Dubai expand their footprints.

The below steps are necessary to getting started successfully with Forex trading in Dubai:

1. Education remains the most vital aspect of Forex trading, as it is a high-skilled profession. Even traders who wish to copy others or use account management services must have in-depth education, which allows traders to spot scams and fraud.

2. Use this page as a resource to check out the most competitive choices for Dubai Forex traders, providing a competitive edge and a secure trading environment.

3. A suitable Forex trading strategy, annual goals with realistic expectations, and a risk management profile are paramount to successful trading.

4. Demo accounts are popular but can present a trap for beginners, as fully simulating Forex trading in a demo account is impossible as it lacks trading psychology. Demo trading is like playing a sports simulator, which won’t make you a great athlete. Beginners should learn in a live account with a smaller deposit and consider any trading losses as the price of education.

5. Analyzing daily economic, monetary, and political events allows traders to understand and profit from price action.

6. The placement of hard take profit and stop loss levels should be done with each order before entering a trade. This helps protect against impulsive, emotional trading decisions and allows for a more “set and forget” trading approach.

Conclusion

Forex brokers in Dubai provide a gateway to the MENA region, and benefit from a well-trusted regulator which maintains competitive business conditions. Following the regulatory changes in Europe and Australia, namely by the CySEC, the FCA, and the ASIC, the Dubai Financial Services Authority emerged as one of the more preferred jurisdictions for Forex brokers. An increasing number of the best Forex brokers acquire a DFSA license, and the UAE continuously improves business friendliness.

Dubai Forex traders rank among those with higher deposits, making them a core market for many international Forex brokers. The large foreign population in the UAE makes Forex trading an essential part of everyday life.

Beginner traders in Dubai should avoid the rush to trade Forex but focus on in-depth education, which will form the foundation for successful trading. The Forex brokers in Dubai listed here can ensure Dubai Forex traders get a innovative trading environment, competitive costs, Islamic trading accounts if desired, and a secure and trustworthy partner.

You might also be interested in reviewing the below top brokers:

FAQs

Is Dubai good for Forex trading?

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Dubai provides an excellent Forex trading environment and is the hub for the MENA region, with many international Forex brokers acquiring a license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority.

How can I open a Forex account in Dubai?

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All Forex brokers in Dubai offer a swift online application. Mandatory account verification to satisfy AML/KYC requirements as demanded by the DFSA completes the account opening.

Which Forex broker is best in Dubai?

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It depends on individual preferences and requirements. The Forex brokers in Dubai listed here all provide traders with a cutting-edge and secure trading environment, making them market leaders.

Do Forex traders pay tax in the UAE?

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The UAE is a tax-free country. Forex trading is not subject to a capital gains tax, but UAE Forex traders should consult a licensed professional to ensure compliance with local rules and regulations.

Do I need a license to trade Forex in Dubai?

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Retail Forex traders who use their capital to trade Forex do not require a license. Forex brokers and account managers must obtain a DFSA license.

How to choose a DFSA-regulated Forex broker?

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Our review lists the most competitive Forex Brokers in Dubai, catering to various strategies. Individual preferences will make the final determination, and Forex traders can check the DFSA database to ensure their brokers has a license. Forex brokers with a DFSA license will provide it on their website, either in the footer or in their section covering regulation.

Huzefa Hamid
About Huzefa Hamid

I’m a trader and manage my own capital. I trade the major Forex pairs, some Futures contracts, and I rely entirely on Technical Analysis to place my trades. Today, I am also a Senior Analyst for DailyForex.com. I began trading the markets in the early 1990s, at the age of sixteen. I had a few hundred British pounds saved up (I grew up in England), with which I was able to open a small account with some help from my Dad. I started my trading journey by buying UK equities that I had read about in the business sections of newspapers. The 1990s were a bull market, so naturally, I made money. I was fortunate enough in my early twenties to have a friend that recommended a Technical Analysis course run by a British trader who emphasized raw chart analysis without indicators. Having this first-principles approach to charts influences how I trade to this day.