Best brokers for options trading in the UAE
Options trading has seen a sharp rise in global interest, with activity hitting new records. In 2024, the total options trading volume soared to 177.2 billion contracts, marking a 64% increase over the previous year.
While markets like the U.S. and Europe have long embraced options as a mainstream investment tool, the UAE is only just starting to see broader adoption.
Investors across the Emirates (retail or institutional) are beginning to recognize the benefits that options can offer, whether for hedging risk, generating income, or expressing a market view on certain instruments.
Domestic exchanges offer limited access to options products pushing most traders to rely on international brokers to access global markets.
Fortunately, several top-tier, regulated platforms serve UAE residents, providing access to major global options exchanges and advanced tools.
In this article, we’ll highlight the 5 best brokers for options trading in the UAE, comparing their fees, platforms, regulation, and suitability for both beginner and professional traders.
The best brokers for options trading in the UAE
- Interactive Brokers (IBKR) - Best overall options broker with global market access.
An industry-leader broker with access to options trading on 30+ global exchanges. Their Trader Workstation platform offers advanced options trading tools, including advanced strategy builders and risk analytics. Fees start from $0.15 per contract (with a minimum fee of $1 per order) - IG - Best for zero spread.
IG offers options trading through CFDs on major indices, FX pairs, and some stocks. It does not charge direct commission on index/FX options trades (costs are built into spreads), and has an award-winning web & mobile platform. - Saxo Bank - Best broker for extensive research and tools.
Saxo Bank lets you trade options on 20+ exchanges worldwide. Saxo’s advanced trading platform (SaxoTraderPRO) and research tools are excellent for active traders. Fees start at $0.75 per contract (stock and contract options). - Freedom24 - Best for low-cost trading on U.S. options.
Freedom24 gives UAE investors direct access to U.S. stock options starting at $0.65 per contract. It’s a great choice if your priority is cheap U.S. options trading. - Tastytrade - Best for professional options traders.
Tastytrade is a specialized options broker offering advanced tools tailored for complex strategies. Its platform is highly sophisticated, making it an excellent choice for active traders focused on U.S. options.
⚠️ Important
- Options trading involves substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. Studies show that a significant percentage of options expire worthless, and complex strategies can lead to very high losses. We've compiled this list in response to increasing interest in options trading in the UAE, but our objective is to provide a balanced assessment of each broker's capabilities and risks to help readers make informed decisions.
- IG offers options trading via CFDs (Contracts for Difference), which are derivative products and not actual listed options. CFD trading involves leverage, margin calls, and the risk of being closed out if the market moves sharply against your position.
Summary
Overall, our top pick goes to Interactive Brokers.
IG is best for those who don’t mind investing in option CFDs.
If you specifically want to trade US stock options with low costs, consider Freedom24 - the app is user-friendly.
Finally, if you’re looking for a more premium broker, consider Saxo Bank, though in general this broker is more expensive.
TastyTrade focuses mostly on US options investors - but also accepts global citizens.
Comparison table
As of September 5, 2025
Broker reviews and key features
Interactive Brokers (IBKR)
- Minimum Deposit: $0
- Demo Account: Yes
- Islamic Account: No
- Options Commissions: $0.65 per contract (US options)
Founded in 1978 and listed on NASDAQ (IBKR), Interactive Brokers stands as the gold standard for options trading platforms. IBKR operates in the UAE through its DFSA-regulated Dubai entity and provides unmatched access to options markets globally.
The platform's flagship Trader Workstation (TWS) is unmatched in functionality, combining a professional interface with powerful analytics. Features such as the Options Strategy Lab, Options Portfolio, Volatility Lab, and Probability Lab provide advanced users with deep insights into pricing, volatility, and strategy selection. Traders can build, visualize, and execute complex multi-leg options strategies with precision, while real-time Greeks, implied volatility modeling, and scenario analysis support informed risk management. For users who prefer a more streamlined experience, IBKR Desktop provides a simplified yet robust alternative.
Moreover, tools like OptionTrader, Write/Rollover Tools, and the Options Lattice enhance usability across desktop and mobile, while the IBKR Mobile, GlobalTrader, and IMPACT apps ensure seamless trading on the go. Algorithmic trading, basket orders, and options screeners further extend the platform’s capabilities.
IBKR's commission structure is among the most competitive in the industry. The fees depend on your monthly trading volume and start as low as $0.15 per U.S. options contract, with most trades averaging $0.65, making it attractive for both retail and institutional clients.
The minimum commission for US options is just $1 per trade:
The broker supports AED funding and offers low margin rates, enhancing cost efficiency for regional traders. However, the platform's complexity may overwhelm beginners, and Islamic accounts are not currently available.
Want to learn more? Check our IBKR review.
Don’t know how to buy options at Interactive Brokers? This video explains it very clearly:
IG
- Minimum Deposit: $0 for bank transfers; $50 for cards
- Demo Account: Yes
- Islamic Account: No
- Options Commissions: $0 commissions, but spreads apply
IG, established in 1974, operates in the UAE through its DFSA-regulated entity and has built a reputation as a leading provider of CFD trading. While not a traditional options brokerage, IG offers a powerful and intuitive way to trade vanilla and barrier options through its proprietary platform.
IG’s platform emphasizes simplicity and transparency, offering real-time option chains, clear pricing, and risk displays for knock-in and knock-out barrier options. Traders can access daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly expiries across a range of underlyings, including indices, Forex pairs, and commodities. A key advantage of IG’s model is the zero-spread on expiry (when options are held until maturity); clients do not pay a closing spread, enhancing cost predictability.
Another standout feature is its commitment to education. Through IG Academy, they deliver comprehensive options trading courses, live webinars, and strategy guides, making it particularly well-suited for beginners. In addition, the platform supports flexible leverage, no overnight funding charges on options, and limited-risk trading.
While IG’s spread-based pricing model eliminates the complexity of per-contract commissions, costs can be higher for frequent or high-volume traders compared to commission-based brokers. The options product range is more limited compared to specialized platforms like IBKR or Tastytrade, and the platform does not currently offer access to U.S.-listed options directly (these are available through IG’s U.S. partner, Tastytrade).
IG supports various funding methods, including AED bank transfers, and provides 24/5 customer support.
Difference between listed options and options CFDs
While both options allow traders to speculate on price movements, they are fundamentally different instruments.
Listed options, like those available on U.S. exchanges through brokers such as Interactive Brokers or Tastytrade, are standardized contracts regulated by clearinghouses. They offer well-defined rights, obligations, and margin structures.
Options CFDs, offered by brokers like IG, simulate the price behavior of listed options but do not provide ownership of the actual contract. They are derivative side-bets with their own pricing model, often spread-based, and are subject to margin calls and automatic closures if markets move quickly against you.
CFD-based options can offer a more simplified and accessible trading experience, especially for short-term strategies or risk-defined structures like barriers. However, they lack the depth, flexibility, and transparency of traditional options markets.
Saxo Bank
- Minimum Deposit: $5,000
- Demo Account: Yes
- Islamic Account: No
- Options Commissions: $0.75 for VIP; $2 for classic
Founded in 1992, Saxo Bank operates in the UAE via its DFSA-regulated subsidiary, offering a professional-grade trading experience designed for sophisticated retail and institutional investors. Saxo Bank delivers a compelling options trading platform with tools, research, and pricing tailored to active traders with deep global market access.
Through its flagship platforms SaxoTraderGO and SaxoTraderPRO, Saxo provides access to options trading on over 20 global exchanges across the US, Europe, and Asia. You can execute options strategies across stocks, indices, and futures contracts with professional-grade tools such as a customizable option chain, real-time Greeks and implied volatility, and an efficient trade ticket that integrates live market data for fast execution.
Saxo supports a range of multi-leg options strategies (including straddles, iron condors, and spreads), which can be built directly from the trading ticket. Its risk graph (payoff diagram) helps you visualize maximum profit, maximum loss, and breakeven points. The platform also includes powerful analytical tools such as a probability envelope, 3D volatility surface, and forward volatility curves, helping traders make data-driven decisions. It’s also worth noting their tiered pricing structure for options trading, which offers lower commissions for high-net-worth clients.
As for pricing, Saxo’s commissions start at $0.75 per U.S. stock option contract, with no platform or minimum trading fees. The standard rate for U.S. equity options is $2 per contract, reflecting Saxo’s positioning as a premium service provider. Active traders can access volume-based discounts and benefit from account tiering, which unlocks reduced fees and enhanced support.
One notable limitation is the minimum deposit requirement of $5,000 to open an account, making Saxo more suitable for professional and high-net-worth traders rather than casual retail participants.
Freedom24
- Minimum Deposit: $0
- Demo Account: Yes
- Islamic Account: No
- Options Commissions: Between $0.65 and $3
Freedom24, operated by Freedom Finance Europe Ltd, is an international online broker founded in 2013. It provides UAE-based investors with access to various international markets, including equity options trading. The platform has gained attention for its competitive pricing and institutional-grade connectivity.
Freedom24 focuses primarily on U.S. equity options, offering contracts on a wide range of popular U.S. stocks and ETFs. More advanced users benefit from its integration with the CQG trading system, which enables access to over 2,000 underlying assets across 45+ global derivatives exchanges such as CME, ICE, and SGX. This includes options on commodities, indices, currencies, and cryptocurrencies, broadening its appeal to professionals seeking diverse exposure.
While the platform’s retail interface provides essential tools like real-time option chains, basic Greeks, and standard order types, institutional and professional users can leverage additional features. These include SPAN margining for efficient portfolio-level margin requirements, low-latency market data, FIX API integration for algorithmic strategies, and advanced reporting for performance tracking and optimization.
As for pricing, Freedom24 offers two plans: Smart and All Inclusive. Under the Smart plan, U.S. options are priced at $0.65 per contract with no order commission, making it one of the most cost-effective models for active options traders. The All-Inclusive plan charges $3 per contract plus €10 per order but offers added value through personal manager support and curated investment ideas.
TastyTrade
- Minimum Deposit: $0
- Demo Account: No
- Islamic Account: No
- Options Commissions: $1 per contract (max $10)
TastyTrade, developed by the team behind thinkorswim, is a platform specifically engineered for active options traders, with a strong emphasis on multi-leg strategies and streamlined execution for experienced users. As a FINRA-registered brokerage, it is regulated by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), ensuring a strong compliance and oversight framework.
The platform is designed around real-world options workflows, with features like Curve View to visually model profit and loss, a Strategy Selector to streamline complex setups, and Smart Order Chains that let you manage multi-leg trades and rollouts from a single interface. Whether you’re building iron condors, butterflies, calendar spreads, or simple verticals, TastyTrade helps simplify execution without dumbing down the process.
One of its most attractive features is the transparent, trader-friendly pricing model. U.S. stock and ETF options are priced at $1 per contract to open, with no commission to close, and no additional fees for multi-leg strategies. For index options, the cost remains $1 per contract to open and $0 to close. Options on futures are slightly higher at $1.25 per contract each way, while micro futures options are priced at $0.75 per contract.
Beyond the tools and pricing, TastyTrade also stands out for its educational ecosystem. Through TastyLive, the firm offers daily market commentary, live shows, tutorials, and short-form video courses, all centered around options trading. The education is not an add-on, but a core part of the user experience, making it one of the best platforms for traders looking to refine their edge or learn advanced strategies in real time.
Although TastyTrade is primarily geared toward U.S. clients, UAE-based traders can open an account with no minimum deposit required. However, access to non-U.S. options markets remains limited.
How to choose an options broker in the UAE
Selecting the right options broker in the UAE requires careful consideration of several factors beyond standard trading features:
- Regulation and Safety: Verify that the broker is regulated by the DFSA, SCA, or other recognized authorities. Options trading involves significant risk, making regulatory protection crucial.
- Options platform sophistication: Look for platforms with comprehensive options chains, Greeks calculations, strategy builders, and risk analysis tools. Basic platforms may be insufficient for complex option strategies.
- Commission structure: Compare per-contract fees, especially for multi-leg strategies. Some brokers charge per leg, while others charge per strategy, significantly impacting costs for complex trades.
- Market access: Consider which options markets you want to trade. U.S. options offer the highest liquidity, while European or Asian options may provide different opportunities.
- Educational resources: Options trading requires specialized knowledge. Choose brokers with comprehensive educational materials, strategy guides, and market analysis.
- Risk management tools: Advanced portfolio analysis, scenario modeling, and real-time Greeks are essential for managing options positions effectively.
- Funding and currency: Ensure the broker supports AED funding or offers competitive currency conversion rates for international deposits.
Options trading hours
Options trading hours depend on the underlying markets and exchanges. Here's a breakdown of major options trading sessions in UAE time:
The most active options trading occurs during U.S. market hours (4:30 PM - 11:00 PM UAE time) when liquidity is highest and spreads are tightest. Many UAE-based options traders focus on this window for optimal execution conditions.
The bottom line
Selecting the best options trading broker in the UAE depends heavily on your experience level, trading style, and specific options strategies you plan to employ.
Based on our comprehensive analysis, Interactive Brokers stands out as the best choice for global market access and offering unmatched platform sophistication.
IG provides the best entry point for beginners looking for a zero-commission structure (though you will be investing in CFDs, not real options).
Saxo Bank delivers institutional-quality execution for professional traders willing to meet higher minimums.
Freedom24 offers low-cost trading on U.S. options, while TastyTrade stands out for active traders focused on complex strategies.
No matter which broker you choose, it’s essential to ensure the platform is properly regulated, offers a transparent fee structure aligned with your trading frequency and strategy complexity, and provides the right tools and analytics to support your approach.
Need any help? Have feedback? Reach out to us!
Options trading carries a high level of risk and is not suitable for all investors. These are complex financial instruments that can lead to substantial losses, including the complete loss of your investment. A large number of options contracts expire worthless, and sellers may be exposed to unlimited downside risk. Multi-leg strategies, while offering strategic advantages, can also magnify both gains and losses.
Before engaging in options trading, ensure you fully understand the risks involved, have the financial capacity to absorb potential losses, and consider consulting a qualified financial advisor. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
FAQs
Is options trading legal in the UAE?
Yes, options trading is legal in the UAE. However, most options products are not offered by local brokers. Instead, UAE residents typically access global options markets through international brokers that are regulated either locally (e.g. DFSA, SCA) or abroad (e.g. SEC, CySEC).
Is options trading halal?
Whether or not options trading is considered halal depends on interpretation, making it a debated topic.
Traditional options may be considered haram due to elements of speculation and uncertainty. However, some brokers offer Islamic (swap-free) accounts or structured alternatives. Investors seeking Sharia-compliant investments should consult a qualified advisor.
Can you trade US options from the UAE?
Yes, UAE residents can trade US-listed options via brokers like Interactive Brokers, Saxo Bank, Freedom24, or Tastytrade. These brokers provide access to U.S. exchanges such as the CBOE and NASDAQ.
What is the minimum deposit to start options trading in the UAE?
Minimum deposit requirements vary across brokers. Interactive Brokers, IG, Freedom24, and Tastytrade all offer no minimum deposit for UAE residents, making them highly attractive to beginners and cost-conscious investors.
On the other hand, Saxo Bank imposes a $5,000 minimum deposit, positioning itself as a premium platform for more experienced or high-net-worth clients.
