The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a global hub for cryptocurrency trading and investments. With progressive regulations, tax exemptions, and high crypto adoption rates, UAE is an ideal region for digital asset activities. Based on our comprehensive analysis, here’s the outline of the 5 best crypto exchanges in UAE, focusing on security, fees, range of cryptocurrencies, and adherence to local regulations.
Summary of 5 Best Crypto Exchanges in UAE
In the UAE, experts advise opting for exchanges regulated by the UAE Central Bank and the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) for purchasing and trading Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. By utilizing bank transfers, credit cards or debit cards to deposit UAE Dirhams (AED), individuals can legally buy, stake, and trade digital assets.
For beginners embarking on crypto ventures in the UAE, we’ve assessed the top 5 trading platforms prevalent in the region:
- eToro – Best Overall Crypto Exchange in the UAE
- Binance – Best for Institutional Investors
- Uphold – Ideal for Newbies [Easiest to Use]
- Bybit – Top Choice for Derivatives Trading
- Gate.io – The Cheapest Exchange
To easily compare the features and offerings of the top 5 crypto exchanges available to UAE residents, we’ve created the following table outlining key details like fees, supported assets, deposit methods, regulation, and unique selling points of each platform:
| Exchange | Fees | Cryptocurrencies Supported | Regulation/Licensing | Deposit Methods | Unique Benefits |
| eToro | 0% trading fee + 1% spread fee | 4,500+ | FCA, ASIC, CySEC regulated | Bank transfer, debit/credit cards | CopyTrader, virtual portfolio, stocks/ETFs |
| Binance | 0.1% spot fee, 0.06% derivatives fee | 300+ | Complies with UAE regulations | Bank transfer, cards, UAE-friendly methods | Largest exchange, earnings up to 25% APY |
| Uphold | 1% trading & 1% spread fee | 250+ | Complies with UAE regulations | Debit/credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay | Easy to use for beginners, up to 25% APY |
| Bybit | 0.01% maker & 0.06% taker fee | 930+ | Dubai HQ, in-principle ADGM license | Bank transfer, debit/credit cards | Top derivatives exchange, 100X leverage |
| Gate.io | As low as 0.2% spot fee | 1,700+ | Not UAE-licensed but accessible | Bank transfers, cards, Apple Pay | Very low fees, vast altcoin options |
eToro Overview
Rated as the premier crypto exchange in the UAE, eToro leads in crypto trading by offering a user-friendly interface, diverse asset range including top cryptocurrencies, and unique features like Copy Trading, all under secure and reputable regulation.
- Supports trading of over 4,500 assets including cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs and commodities
- Regulated by Tier-1 regulators like the FCA, ASIC, and CySEC
- 0% trading commissions, only a small spread fee added
- Innovative Copy Trading feature to copy successful traders
- Virtual portfolio to practice trading risk-free
Key Metrics
- $1 billion raised, launched in 2007
- 27 million registered users globally
- Over 800 employees
- 140+ countries supported
- 4,500+ tradable instruments
- 1% average spread fee
- $1 million protection through Lloyd’s of London
Binance Overview
Emerging as the largest global crypto exchange, Binance stands out with its vast ecosystem catering to both retail and institutional investors. Its offerings are comprehensive, extending from spot and futures trading to earning yields on crypto holdings up to 25% APY.
- Supports over 300 cryptocurrencies
- Competitive 0.1% spot trading fees
- Advanced trading features for derivatives
- Staking services providing up to 25% APY
- Caters well to professional traders and institutions
- Developed trust through regulatory compliance
Key Metrics
- Founded in 2017 and world’s top exchange by volume
- 150 million+ registered users
- Daily trading volume over $30 billion
- Over 1,400 employees worldwide
- Available in 180+ countries
- 300+ cryptocurrencies listed
- Spot trading fees as low as 0.1%
Uphold Overview
In the UAE, Uphold emerges as a top choice for beginners, providing a user-friendly platform supporting over 250 digital assets. Its uncomplicated staking options with up to 25% APY and easy-to-use interface make crypto investing straightforward even for first-time investors.
- Intuitive mobile and web platforms fit for newcomers
- Secured with proof-of-reserves ensuring assets backing
- Supports over 250 cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies
- Up to 25% APY yields on supported digital assets
- Complies with regulations applicable in the UAE
Key Metrics
- Launched in 2015, caters to over 10 million users
- Backed by over $200 million in funding
- Currently supports users in 150+ countries
- Provides access to 250+ financial instruments
- Cryptex debit card to spend crypto balances
- Transparent fee structure capping at 2% spread
Bybit Overview
Bybit secures its position as the top derivatives crypto exchange in the UAE, with over 930 digital assets available for futures trading with up to 100x leverage. As a Dubai-based company with an in-principle ADGM license, Bybit adheres to UAE regulations.
- Headquarters located within the UAE
- In-principle license obtained from FSRA
- Competitive 0.06% taker & 0.01% maker fees
- Allows up to 100x leverage on crypto derivatives
- Supports trading of over 930 cryptocurrencies
- Advanced customizable trading dashboard
Key Metrics
- Registered in 2018 with 1.5+ million users
- Total trade volume over $1 trillion
- Over 930 cryptocurrencies listed
- Up to 100x leverage available
- Takker fee of 0.06%, maker fee at 0.01%
- Headquarters located in Dubai, UAE
Gate.io Overview
Gate.io earns its place as the cheapest cryptocurrency exchange option in the UAE, favored by enthusiasts of altcoins. The platform provides access to over 1,700 cryptocurrencies with some of the lowest trading fees starting at just 0.2%.
- Extremely wide assortment of altcoins – over 1,700 listed
- Low trading fees compared to rivals (as low as 0.2%)
- Impressive liquidity with high trading volumes
- Supports convenient fiat deposit methods for UAE
- Additional tools for automated and copy trading
Key Metrics
- Founded in 2013, with over 14 million users globally
- Supports 1,700+ cryptocurrencies
- Altcoin trading volumes up to over $1 billion
- Spot trading fees as low as 0.2%
- Regulated in crypto-friendly regions across the globe
- Caters to UAE with AED deposits and local languages
How to Purchase Cryptocurrencies in the UAE
For beginners aiming to invest in digital currencies within the UAE, adhere to this detailed, step-by-step guide for lawful and secure transactions:
- Select a reliable UAE-approved exchange like eToro or Binance
- Complete account registration and any KYC verification
- Fund account through bank transfer, debit/credit card, etc.
- Buy desired cryptocurrency and amount
- Withdraw to a secure software/hardware wallet
Is Crypto Legal in the UAE?
Yes, cryptocurrencies are legal in the UAE. Progressive regulatory bodies like the DFSA demonstrate support for crypto by accepting assets like Bitcoin for payments. Strategic initiatives like the Emirates Blockchain Strategy 2021 also highlight the country’s goal to integrate digital assets.
How is Crypto Taxed in the UAE?
Unlike many countries, the UAE does not levy income or capital gains tax on individuals’ crypto earnings. For companies, general corporate tax principles apply. However, no designated tax structure exists explicitly for crypto activities.
Conclusion
To conclude, UAE’s innovative landscape offers crypto investors diversity through exchanges like eToro, Binance and Bybit operating within compliant frameworks. For both new and experienced traders in the UAE, these platforms provide secure, regulated access to the world of digital currencies.
Those interested in the Asian crypto market may want to read our guide on the Best Crypto Exchanges in Singapore to understand the regulations and leading platforms available there.
Scandinavian investors should check out our recommendations for the Best Crypto Exchanges in Denmark for available options that serve the Danish crypto trading market.
Readers may also find useful information in our analysis of Best Crypto Exchanges in Japan, where we cover unique aspects of the Japanese regulatory environment.
