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Everything you need to launch a licensed forex brokerage in Dubai. From DFSA licensing and free zone selection to technology setup and compliance—your complete roadmap to entering the UAE forex market.
Dubai has emerged as the premier destination for forex brokerages looking to serve the Middle East, Africa, and Asian markets. With daily forex trading volumes exceeding $7.5 trillion globally and the MENA region growing at 7.8% CAGR through 2027, Dubai offers the perfect launchpad.
Corporate Tax in Free Zones (up to 50 years)
Foreign Ownership Allowed
Daily Global Forex Volume
MENA Market CAGR to 2027
Dubai offers multiple regulatory pathways. Your choice depends on target market, capital, and business model.
| Jurisdiction | Regulator | Min. Capital | Timeline | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIFC Dubai International Financial Centre | DFSA | $500,000+ | 4-6 months | International brokers, institutional clients |
| ADGM Abu Dhabi Global Market | FSRA | $300,000+ | 3-5 months | Fintech-focused, crypto-friendly operations |
| DMCC Dubai Multi Commodities Centre | SCA | $150,000+ | 2-4 months | Commodities, gold, regional focus |
| Mainland Dubai Dubai Economy & Tourism | SCA | $250,000+ | 3-6 months | UAE-focused retail brokers |
The Dubai Financial Services Authority is recognized as a Tier-1 regulator alongside FCA and ASIC. Ideal for brokers seeking credibility with international clients and institutional partnerships.
The Securities and Commodities Authority regulates brokers on the UAE mainland. Lower capital requirements make it accessible for startups focusing on MENA retail markets.
Follow this roadmap to go from concept to licensed operation.
Regulators require a comprehensive business plan demonstrating market understanding, target audience, revenue model, and risk management approach.
Register your company in the chosen jurisdiction. Free zones offer streamlined company formation with 100% foreign ownership.
Submit your license application with all supporting documentation. This is the most critical and time-consuming phase.
Deploy the essential technology stack: trading platforms, CRM, payment processing, and compliance tools.
Brokeret provides a complete technology package for Dubai brokers: CRM, Trader's Room, multi-level IB management, bonus module, and integrations with all major trading platforms. Arabic language support included.
Open corporate bank accounts and establish relationships with liquidity providers. This can be challenging for new brokers.
Regulators require physical presence in the jurisdiction. Free zones offer flexible office solutions.
Hire qualified professionals to meet regulatory requirements and operational needs.
With license approved and systems in place, you're ready to onboard clients and begin trading operations.
Realistic budget expectations for launching a DFSA-licensed brokerage.
| Cost Category | DIFC (DFSA) | DMCC (SCA) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Capital Requirement | $500,000 | $150,000 |
| License Application Fee | $10,000 - $20,000 | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Annual License Fee | $15,000 - $30,000 | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Company Registration | $15,000 - $25,000 | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Office Space (Annual) | $50,000 - $150,000 | $15,000 - $50,000 |
| Legal & Consulting Fees | $30,000 - $80,000 | $15,000 - $40,000 |
| Technology (First Year) | $50,000 - $100,000 | $40,000 - $80,000 |
| Staff (First Year, 5-10 people) | $200,000 - $400,000 | $150,000 - $300,000 |
| Total First Year Budget | $870,000 - $1,300,000 | $388,000 - $655,000 |
Essential technology infrastructure to power your brokerage operations.
Cost: $1,000 - $5,000/month per platform
Cost: $1,500 - $3,000/month
Cost: Transaction-based fees (1-3%)
Cost: $500 - $2,000/month + per-verification fees
Brokeret provides a complete back-office solution for Dubai brokers. CRM, Trader's Room, IB management, bonus module, and integrations with MT4, MT5, cTrader, and more. Arabic language support included.
Get Free DemoStay compliant with DFSA and UAE regulations to maintain your license.
Realistic timeline for launching a DFSA-licensed forex brokerage in Dubai.
Business plan development, legal structure selection, documentation preparation
Establish legal entity in DIFC/ADGM, secure office space, initial bank account setup
Submit DFSA application with all supporting documents, begin regulator dialogue
DFSA reviews application, responds to queries, fit and proper assessments completed
Deploy CRM, trading platforms, payment integrations, hire staff, staff training
Receive DFSA license, complete final checks, soft launch, begin client onboarding
Total Timeline: 6-8 months for DFSA license
SCA/DMCC may be faster (4-6 months). Delays common with incomplete documentation.
Common questions about starting a forex brokerage in Dubai.
Free business plan template for starting a forex brokerage with financial projections and market analysis.
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Read moreBrokeret provides the complete technology stack for Dubai forex brokers. CRM, Trader's Room, multi-level IB management, and integrations with all major trading platforms. Arabic language support included.