- •Top exchanges are relocating to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, working closely with regulators like VARA and ADGM.
- •UAE users value high-leverage tools, wide asset support, and both KYC and no-KYC trading options.
- •The best crypto exchanges in the UAE offer AED support, fast withdrawals, and Arabic-language service.
The UAE is fast becoming a global hub for digital assets, with major platforms setting up regional offices, relocating headquarters, and engaging with regulators like VARA (Dubai) and ADGM (Abu Dhabi). This shift reflects strong local demand. UAE traders, ranging from high-net-worth individuals to everyday investors, look for platforms that offer high leverage, asset variety, privacy, and compliance. While many value anonymity, most still expect regulatory clarity and easy AED access. In this guide, we break down the best crypto exchanges UAE residents can use today, based on features, fees, security, and user experience that match local needs.
Top Cryptocurrency Exchanges in UAE Reviewed
When selecting a crypto exchange in the UAE, regulation is key. This guide features only the top platforms that are licensed or accessible across all regions of the UAE. Many of them also support fiat AED deposits and withdrawals, allowing users to easily cash out profits to local bank accounts.
- BloFin – Best for high-leverage futures without KYC
- Bybit – Most advanced platform with Dubai headquarters
- Coinflare – Best new exchange offering Arabic UI and P2P trading
- Coinbase – Best regulated exchange for fiat deposits (USD, EUR, GBP)
- Rain – Only ADGM-regulated exchange with AED bank transfers
- Bitget – Best for copy trading and institutional-grade tools
- MEXC – Lowest fees and widest altcoin selection with Arabic support
| Exchange | Cryptos | Spot Fees | Future Fees | Max Leverage | Bonus | KYC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. BloFin | 564+ | 0.10% / 0.10% | 0.02% / 0.06% | 150x | $10,000 | No |
| 2. Bybit | 726+ | 0.10% / 0.10% | 0.02% / 0.055% | 100x | $30,000 | Yes |
| 3. Coinflare | 10+ | 0.10% / 0.10% | 0.022% / 0.06% | 100x | $5,000 | No |
| 4. Coinbase | 297+ | 0.40% / 0.60% | 0.05% / 0.05% | 10x | None | Yes |
| 5. Rain | 982+ | 0.10% / 0.25% | N/A | None | None | Yes |
| 6. Bitget | 871+ | 0.10% / 0.10% | 0.02% / 0.06% | 125x | $20,000 | Yes |
| 7. MEXC | 3137+ | 0.05% / 0.05% | 0.00% / 0.02% | 500x | $20 | Yes |
1. Blofin
BloFin was founded in 2019 by Matt Hu and is currently based in the Cayman Islands, with over 2 million users globally. In a short span, it’s become a known name in the Gulf region, particularly after securing the title sponsorship at TOKEN2049 Dubai, where it hosted the closed-door “Whale’s Rave” event for VIP traders and Web3 founders.
The platform supports 564+ cryptocurrencies for spot trading and offers 440+ futures contracts, with leverage going up to 150x. Spot fees are set at 0.10%, while futures trades go as low as 0.02% maker / 0.06% taker. Traders can also explore built-in tools such as signal bots, grid bots, and TWAP bots, or use demo trading to test out strategies before going live.
BloFin does not require KYC for basic usage. Users can withdraw up to $20,000 per day without verification. For higher-tier accounts, verified traders can access limits of up to $2 million daily. These flexible limits make it practical for both smaller users and large-scale traders.
Funding options are built around UAE user needs. With local banks limiting crypto transactions, BloFin supports Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit/debit cards, Alchemy Pay, Simplex, and SEPA. The mobile app has also been independently tested, loading faster than several Tier 1 exchanges, with startup times under 2 seconds and low CPU usage.
Read our detailed BloFin review to learn more about the platform.
BloFin Features:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 564+
- Futures Contracts: 440+
- Max Leverage: 150x
- Spot Fees: 0.10% maker / 0.10% taker
- Futures Fees: 0.02% maker / 0.06% taker
- KYC: Not required
- Deposits: Crypto, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Cards, Alchemy Pay, SEPA
BloFin Pros and Cons
| 👍 Blofin Pros | 👎 Blofin Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ No-KYC exchange with global access (incl. US, UK, Canada) | ❌ Relatively new |
| ✅ $9.7B+ daily volume and 2M+ users | ❌ No Copy trading, and staking options available |
| ✅ Up to 150x leverage on futures | |
| ✅ Bot trading supported | |
| ✅ Full proof of reserves | |
| ✅ Multiple fiat gateways: Google Pay, SEPA, Alchemy Pay, etc. |
2. Bybit
Bybit was established in 2018 by Ben Zhou and has since become one of the most feature-rich platforms globally. It shifted its global headquarters to Dubai in 2022, a move that aligns with its growing focus on the MENA region. In 2025, Bybit received in-principle approval from both Dubai’s VARA and the UAE’s Securities & Commodities Authority to operate as a Virtual Asset Platform, positioning it among the few international exchanges working toward full regulatory alignment in the Emirates.
The exchange supports 726 spot cryptocurrencies and 578 futures contracts, with up to 100x leverage on derivatives. Fees are transparent; 0.10% for spot trades and 0.02% maker / 0.055% taker for futures. It also offers margin trading (10x) and access to tokenized stocks, giving traders more diversified exposure under one platform.
Bybit’s toolkit includes grid, DCA, martingale, and combo bots, a copy trading system, and backtesting features. The platform is also one of the few to offer a Shariah-compliant account, allowing users to trade without interest-based services, relevant for Islamic traders in the UAE.
KYC is required for all users. With full verification, the daily withdrawal limit goes up to $2 million, and all account tiers support Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and fiat processors like Banxa, MoonPay, and BTCDirect.
For UAE traders looking for tier-1 liquidity, advanced tools, and a platform that operates locally under clear regulations, Bybit is one of the most complete choices.
Our Bybit review covers everything you need to know, check it out.
Bybit Features:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 726+
- Futures Contracts: 578+
- Max Leverage: 100x
- Spot Fees: 0.10% maker / 0.10% taker
- Futures Fees: 0.02% maker / 0.055% taker
- KYC: KYC required
- Deposits: Crypto, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Bank Transfer, Cards, MoonPay
Bybit Pros and Cons
| 👍 Bybit Pros | 👎 Bybit Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ MiCAR-compliant platform | ❌ KYC is mandatory |
| ✅ SEPA support for EUR deposits | ❌ Not available in the US, UK, and other major countries |
| ✅ Tier-1 liquidity and deep futures markets | |
| ✅ Supports copy trading, demo mode, and multiple bots (Grid, DCA, Martingale, etc.) | |
| ✅ Fiat onramps via cards, MoonPay, BTCDirect, and more |
3. Coinflare
Coinflare was launched in 2022 by Wui Yang Ee, originally under the name Bitflex, before rebranding to better reflect its global direction. While the company is officially based in Singapore, much of its user base and platform development is focused on the UAE market. The interface is optimized for both English and Arabic, making it more accessible for regional users.
The platform supports spot and futures trading, offering up to 100x leverage on derivatives. Trading fees are competitive; 0.10% for spot and 0.022% maker / 0.060% taker for futures. While asset coverage is limited to around 10+ spot pairs and 100+ futures contracts, it caters well to short-term traders focused on leverage.
Coinflare stands out with its no-KYC policy, allowing daily withdrawals up to $5,000 without verification. For verified users (Level 1), the withdrawal limit increases to $50,000. There’s no Level 2 or 3, making it ideal for mid-volume traders who prioritize speed and simplicity.
UAE traders can deposit using credit/debit cards or crypto. While its reputation is still developing, Coinflare appeals to users looking for a fast, no-KYC platform with Arabic support, high leverage, and a clean UI.
Get the complete picture by reading our Coinflare review.
Coinflare Features:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 10+
- Futures Contracts: 100+
- Max Leverage: 100x
- Spot Fees: 0.10% / 0.10%
- Futures Fees: 0.022% maker / 0.060% taker
- KYC: Not required
- Deposits: Crypto, Credit/Debit Cards
Coinflare Pros and Cons
| 👍 Coinflare Pros | 👎 Coinflare Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ No KYC required | ❌ Not available to US traders |
| ✅ 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading | ❌ Crypto pairs for trading are limited |
| ✅ Intuitive and user-friendly trading interface | ❌ Still new for a cryptocurrency exchange |
| ✅ Supports both Spot and Derivatives Trading | |
| ✅ Available on both Android and iOS devices | |
| ✅ Advanced tools for expert traders |
4. Coinbase
Coinbase was founded in 2012 by Brian Armstrong and is headquartered in San Francisco. With over 108 million users, it’s one of the largest regulated exchanges globally. While not yet fully licensed in the UAE, Coinbase has made strategic moves toward regional integration.
It recently entered the Abu Dhabi Global Market’s RegLab sandbox under its institutional initiative Project Diamond, focusing on tokenization services using its own Layer 2 chain, Base. The UAE plays a central role in Coinbase’s long-term expansion across Asia and Europe.
The platform lists 297+ cryptocurrencies for spot trading and 164+ futures contracts, with 10x leverage on derivatives. Spot trading fees are relatively high; 0.40% maker / 0.60% taker, making it more suitable for beginners or casual investors.
Coinbase is built around a simple UI, strong compliance, and fiat access via USD, EUR, and GBP. Payment options include credit/debit cards and crypto deposits.
For UAE users seeking a regulated and beginner-friendly exchange with fiat onramps and strong security, Coinbase is a straightforward, if limited, option.
For more information on the exchange, don’t miss our full Coinbase review.
Coinbase Features:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 297+
- Futures Contracts: 164+
- Max Leverage: 10x
- Spot Fees: 0.40% maker / 0.60% taker
- Futures Fees: 0.05% maker / 0.05% taker
- KYC: KYC required
- Deposits: Crypto, Credit/Debit Cards, USD, EUR, GBP
Coinbase Pros and Cons
| 👍 Coinbase Pros | 👎 Coinbase Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Reputable exchange | ❌ High trading fees |
| ✅ Very secure crypto trading platform | ❌ No Futures |
| ✅ Very beginner-friendly | ❌ Lacks advanced trading features |
| ✅ Highly regulated | ❌ No live chat support |
| ✅ Euro deposits supported |
5. Rain
Rain was founded in 2017 and is headquartered in Bahrain, with licensed operations in the UAE through ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market). It holds a Financial Services Permission from FSRA, making it one of the few fully regulated crypto exchanges in the country.
The platform lists 982+ spot pairs, including direct AED trading pairs, with full support for Arabic language, 24/7 Arabic customer service, and familiar UAE payment methods. The mobile and web apps are clean and modern, offering a smooth trading experience for retail users.
Rain is focused on spot trading only, with no leverage or futures. Fees are set at 0.10% for makers and 0.25% for takers. UAE users can deposit funds using Fawri/Fawri+ bank transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and credit/debit cards. Withdrawals are processed via local bank transfers.
It remains the only platform in the region offering Shariah-compliant trading under full regulatory oversight, making it ideal for users who value transparency and regional compliance.
Rain Features:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 982+
- Futures Contracts: None
- Max Leverage: Not Supported
- Spot Fees: 0.10% maker / 0.25% taker
- KYC: KYC Required
- Deposits: AED bank transfer (Fawri, Fawri+), debit/credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay
Rain Pros and Cons
| 👍 Rain Pros | 👎 Rain Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Regulated by ADGM and Bahrain Central Bank | ❌ No futures or margin trading |
| ✅ Direct AED trading pairs | ❌ No bots, staking, or copy trading |
| ✅ Arabic language support and local 24/7 help | ❌ Lower liquidity than global platforms |
| ✅ Shariah-compliant | |
| ✅ Supports Fawri, Apple Pay, and card deposits | |
| ✅ Clean, beginner-friendly interface |
6. Bitget
Bitget was launched in 2018 and is headquartered in Singapore, with over 8 million users worldwide. It has shown clear intent to establish a regulated presence in Dubai, actively pursuing a VARA license as part of its regional expansion.
In May 2025, Bitget’s institutional division co-hosted the “Into the Dunes” event in Dubai alongside LTP and AWS. Backed by Zand Bank, the UAE’s first compliant digital bank, the event highlighted Bitget’s push to engage institutions on liquidity and infrastructure in the region.
The platform supports 871+ cryptocurrencies for spot trading and 488+ futures contracts, with leverage up to 125x. Spot trading fees are 0.10%, and futures go as low as 0.02% maker / 0.06% taker. Traders have access to grid bots, signal bots, CTA bots, and martingale strategies, along with a strong copy trading ecosystem.
Bitget requires KYC, but once verified, users can withdraw up to $3 million daily. Deposits can be made via bank transfer, credit/debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, SEPA, and PIX, offering solid fiat support.
Bitget ranks among the top exchanges globally in volume and is well-suited for UAE traders seeking high leverage, altcoin access, and advanced trading tools on a growing, UAE-focused platform.
Everything about Bitget is explained in our thorough Bitget review, take a look.
Bitget Features:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 871+
- Futures Contracts: 488
- Max Leverage: 125x
- Spot Fees: 0.10% maker / 0.10% taker
- Futures Fees: 0.02% maker / 0.06% taker
- KYC: KYC required
- Deposits: Crypto, Bank Transfer, Cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, SEPA, PIX
Bitget Pros and Cons
| 👍 Bitget Pros | 👎 Bitget Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Free Euro deposits via bank transfer | ❌ Advanced Features are confusing for beginners |
| ✅ 15M+ users and $12B+ daily volume | ❌ KYC required for full access |
| ✅ Regulated (CySEC, FinCEN & more) | ❌ Not available in US |
| ✅ Supports copy trading and P2P market | |
| ✅ 871+ cryptos and 488+ futures contracts | |
| ✅ Up to 125x leverage with low fees |
7. MEXC
MEXC was launched in 2018 and is headquartered in Singapore, with over 6 million users globally. The exchange has shown interest in UAE compliance, publishing detailed guidance on VARA and ADGM regulations, though it has not yet applied for a local license.
The website supports the Arabic language, making it accessible for regional users. Combined with a large coin selection and ultra-low fees, it remains popular among traders seeking altcoin exposure.
MEXC offers 3,137+ spot cryptocurrencies and 433+ futures contracts, with leverage up to 500x. Spot trading is completely zero-fee, and futures fees start as low as 0.000% maker / 0.020% taker. The platform also features copy trading, bot trading, P2P, and a built-in demo mode.
KYC is required for higher withdrawal limits, but unverified users can still withdraw up to 30 BTC per day. Deposits are supported via cards, SEPA, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and various fiat gateways like Banxa and Mercuryo.
While not regulated in the UAE, MEXC remains one of the most competitive platforms in terms of fees and coin availability, especially for experienced traders.
Don’t miss our full MEXC review for an exhaustive look at the platform.
MEXC Features:
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: 3,137+
- Futures Contracts: 433+
- Max Leverage: 500x
- Spot Fees: 0.05% maker / 0.05% taker
- Futures Fees: 0.00% maker / 0.020% taker
- KYC: KYC required
- Deposits: Crypto, Cards, SEPA, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Banxa, Mercuryo
MEXC Pros and Cons
| 👍 MEXC Pros | 👎 MEXC Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Over 3137+ cryptocurrencies available on Spot Trading | ❌ Moderate Security |
| ✅ Up to 500x leverage | ❌ Interface may be overwhelming for beginners unfamiliar with pro-level tools |
| ✅ Lowest trading fees | |
| ✅ Advanced products and features |
Are Crypto Exchanges Legal in the UAE?
Yes, crypto exchanges are legal in the United Arab Emirates. The country has established itself as a global center for digital assets, attracting top platforms. A clear example is Bybit, which moved its global headquarters to Dubai in 2022, reflecting strong alignment with the region’s regulatory framework.
Exchanges operating in the UAE may be regulated under VARA (Dubai) or ADGM (Abu Dhabi). In some cases, they also need a commercial license from the Department of Economic Development (DED). Any platform offering crypto services in the UAE must be registered and approved by the appropriate authority.
The UAE’s legal approach to virtual assets shows a long-term commitment to building a safe and transparent crypto market.
How to Choose the Right Crypto Exchange in the UAE
Selecting the right exchange depends on your trading needs, preferred funding methods, and level of experience. Below are the key factors to consider:
1. Licensing and Availability
Check if the exchange is accessible in the UAE and whether it holds or is applying for a license from VARA or ADGM. Rain is already licensed under ADGM, while Bybit and Bitget are actively pursuing local regulatory approval.
2. Deposit and Withdrawal Methods
Look for exchanges that support AED via bank transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or credit/debit cards. Rain, Bitget, MEXC, and Coinflare all support local-friendly payment options.
3. Trading Fees
Fee structures vary significantly. MEXC offers zero-fee spot trading and low futures fees. BloFin, Bitget, and Bybit also offer competitive rates, particularly for futures. Higher fees, like those on Coinbase, may suit passive investors but not active traders.
4. Security and Proof of Reserves
Choose exchanges with a reliable security record. Bybit, BloFin, Bitget, and Coinbase all provide proof of reserves, showing that customer assets are fully backed.
5. Customer Support
24/7 support is critical. Bybit, Bitget, BloFin, and MEXC all offer live chat. Coinbase, on the other hand, only provides email-based support with longer response times.
6. User Experience
If you prefer a simplified dashboard, Rain, Coinbase, and Coinflare offer beginner-friendly interfaces. For deeper tools and trading strategies, Bybit, Bitget, BloFin, and MEXC provide more advanced layouts and features.
Bottom Line
The UAE offers access to some of the most competitive crypto exchanges globally, ranging from fully regulated local platforms to advanced global trading hubs. Exchanges like Rain provide regulatory certainty and AED support, while Bybit and Bitget offer deep liquidity, high leverage, and advanced tools. For traders focused on privacy, BloFin and MEXC deliver no-KYC access and a wide range of assets.
Choosing the right exchange comes down to regulation, funding options, fee structure, and trading tools. Evaluate based on what matters most to you, and always verify the platform’s terms and supported services before signing up.
FAQs
1. Are crypto exchanges allowed to operate legally in the UAE?
Yes, but they must register with regulators like VARA (Dubai) or ADGM (Abu Dhabi). Exchanges such as Rain are already licensed, while others like Bybit and Bitget are in the process of securing local approval.
2. Which crypto exchange is fully regulated in the UAE?
Rain is currently the only exchange in your list that holds a Financial Services Permission (FSP) from ADGM, offering AED support and Shariah-compliant trading.
3. Can I trade without KYC in the UAE?
Yes, exchanges like BloFin, Bitunix, and MEXC allow trading without full KYC. However, withdrawal limits may apply unless you verify your account.
4. Which exchange supports AED deposits and withdrawals?
Rain is the most AED-friendly exchange, supporting Fawri bank transfers and other local funding methods. Bitget, MEXC, and Coinflare also support AED indirectly through cards and Apple/Google Pay.
5. Which crypto exchanges offer Arabic language support?
Both Rain and MEXC offer full Arabic interface support. Coinflare also has Arabic UI and local customer service options.
