The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a growing financial hub in the Middle East, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi emerging as key centres for regulated forex trading. Traders in the UAE can legally access the global forex market through registered brokers licensed by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) or authorised offshore entities operating under strict guidelines. This article ranks the top registered forex brokers in the UAE, ensuring security, legal compliance, and professional-grade trading services.

How Forex Regulation Works in the UAE

✅ Legal Forex Trading in UAE:

• Only through licensed SCA or free zone brokers
• Offshore brokers must not market to UAE residents without approval
• UAE law prohibits unauthorised financial promotions

Top Registered Forex Brokers in UAE (2026)

1. IG International – DFSA Regulated Entity

• Local Regulation: DFSA (F004885)
• Global Regulation: FCA, ASIC, MAS
• Platforms: IG Web, MT4
• Key Features:
  • Over 17,000 instruments
  • Spread betting and CFDs
  • Dubai-based office

Best For: Multi-asset traders who want a globally recognised brand with local compliance.

2. AvaTrade Middle East – SCA Licensed Broker

• Local Licence: SCA No. 20200000042
• Global Regulation: FSCA, ASIC, Central Bank of Ireland
• Platforms: MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO
• UAE Services:
  • Arabic-language support
  • Local funding methods
  • Islamic account options

Ideal For: UAE residents seeking a local license, Islamic accounts, and full regulatory cover.

3. Saxo Bank UAE – ADGM Regulated

• Licence: FSRA, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
• Platform: SaxoTraderGO, SaxoTraderPRO
• Market Access: FX, commodities, stocks, ETFs, options
• Advantages:
  • Institutional-level infrastructure
  • Tailored accounts for UAE investors
  • Full Arabic support

Recommended For: High-net-worth traders and professionals.

4. ADSS (Abu Dhabi)

• Licence: SCA & Central Bank of UAE
• Headquarters: Abu Dhabi
• Platform: MT4, OREX
• Highlights:
  • Commission-free forex accounts
  • 24/6 Arabic and English support
  • Local payment gateways

Top Choice For: UAE-based retail traders seeking locally headquartered service.

5. Equiti Securities Currencies Brokers LLC

• Licence: SCA Licence No. 607136
• Presence: Dubai, Abu Dhabi
• Platform: MT4, Equiti Trader
• Strengths:
  • FSCA and SCA regulation
  • Institutional liquidity access
  • Education in English and Arabic

Best For: Retail and semi-pro traders in the Gulf.

Comparison Table: Registered UAE Forex Brokers

Key Benefits of UAE-Registered Brokers

• Compliance with Sharia law (Islamic accounts)
• Arabic-language support and education
• Faster withdrawal processing via UAE bank accounts
• FSRA, SCA, or DFSA protection ensures local legal recourse
• Professional-grade infrastructure with international connections

How to Verify Forex Broker Licences in UAE

1. Visit the SCA Public Register
2. Check the broker’s trade name and licence number
3. For free zone brokers, check with DFSA or ADGM FSRA registers
4. Confirm local office location and Arabic-language support

Key Takeaways

• IG, AvaTrade, Saxo Bank, ADSS, and Equiti are the top registered forex brokers in the UAE in 2026
• All hold valid licences with SCA, DFSA, or ADGM-FSRA for full compliance
• UAE traders benefit from Sharia-compliant accounts, Arabic support, and fast local funding
• Always verify regulatory details via official portals before opening an account
• Offshore brokers without UAE licences may not be legally allowed to serve UAE residents

Frequently Asked Questions

Is forex trading legal in the UAE?

Yes, but only with SCA, DFSA, or ADGM-licensed brokers. Offshore brokers are not allowed to solicit UAE clients without approval.

Which is the best SCA-regulated forex broker?

AvaTrade UAE and Equiti UAE are both SCA-licensed and offer strong local service with Islamic accounts.

Are forex brokers in UAE Sharia-compliant?

Yes. Most UAE-regulated brokers offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts that comply with Sharia law.

How do I check if a broker is licensed in the UAE?

Search for the broker’s name on the SCA, DFSA, or ADGM FSRA public registers.

Can UAE residents use offshore forex brokers?

Technically yes, but it may breach UAE marketing laws, and traders lose local regulatory protection.

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