Since 2014, Atomiq Consulting has been a global leader for FX & CFD broker license consultation. With a solid track record in offshore and continental licensing, we are the ideal partner to assist you in obtaining a Dubai DFSA forex license.

If you are strongly considering a forex broker license in Dubai, we are your ideal partner realizing your dreams. We have a reputation in the industry of getting things right the first time and in effect saving our clients time and money.

Contact our team of consultants today to learn more about fees, requirements, and a quote for a Dubai Forex Broker License!

Are there any Dubai licensed brokers currently for sale?

Yes. For our clients whose operations are time sensitive. We can assist in the acquisition of an existing DFSA licensed forex broker. The offers are marked to market, meaning we can only provide quotes at the time of readiness, based on availability.

After the license has been issued, does Atomiq Consulting also assist with establishing a local bank account?

Yes, as part of our consultation services we will also assist your newly licensed broker with establishing a bank account in the UAE.

What is the regulatory body which oversees forex & CFD trading in Dubai?

Forex and CFD trading in Dubai’s Financial Centre is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), the independent regulator responsible for supervising all financial services activities within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Is a physical presence in Dubai required to obtain a forex broker license there?

Yes. To secure a DFSA forex broker license in Dubai, you must establish a local entity within the DIFC, maintain a registered office address, and appoint at least one qualified Director residing or commuting regularly to Dubai. This physical presence ensures ongoing compliance with DFSA’s regulatory framework.

How much is a forex license in Dubai?

The cost of a forex broker license in Dubai varies based on the license category and initial paid-up capital requirements. For a Category 4 DFSA license, you should budget approximately USD 500,000 to cover paid-up capital, application fees, DIFC registration fees, and professional service costs. Ongoing annual fees and DIFC office rent must also be factored into your budget.

What is a DFSA license?

A DFSA license is an authorization granted by the Dubai Financial Services Authority to firms wishing to conduct regulated financial activities—such as forex brokerage, asset management, or dealing in securities—within the DIFC. Holding a DFSA license demonstrates compliance with stringent capital, governance, and risk-management standards required in Dubai’s financial center.

How to get DFSA designation?

To obtain a DFSA designation (license), follow these SEO-optimized steps: 1. Incorporate a DIFC entity and secure a local office. 2. Prepare a detailed application including business plan, KYC/AML policies, and risk management framework. 3. Submit to DFSA via their online portal and pay the prescribed fees. 4. Undergo DFSA review – respond promptly to any information requests. 5. Receive license approval and satisfy any post-approval conditions prior to commencement.

What is a category 4 license in DIFC?

A Category 4 license under the DFSA’s regulatory framework permits firms to deal in investments as principal, including margin FX and CFD trading. Category 4 brokers must meet minimum capital requirements (around USD 500,000), maintain robust risk controls, and implement comprehensive client-fund segregation policies in the DIFC.

What is the cheapest trade license in Dubai?

The most affordable onshore trade license in Dubai is typically a Department of Economic Development (DED) Freelance License, starting around AED 6,000 per year. However, for a regulated forex broker license, the DFSA Category 4 license is mandatory, making the DIFC route (Category 4) the only viable option for forex trading in Dubai.

How to open a forex company in Dubai?

To open a forex company in Dubai, follow these key steps: 1. Choose your jurisdiction: Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) for DFSA regulation. 2. Incorporate a DIFC Limited Liability Company (LLC) and secure a physical office space. 3. Gather and submit documentation – business plan, corporate governance, KYC/AML manuals, financial forecasts. 4. Apply for a DFSA Category 4 License with the DIFC Registrar of Companies and DFSA. 5. Open a corporate bank account in the UAE to segregate client funds and meet capital requirements. 6. Receive DFSA approval and commence regulated forex brokerage operations in Dubai.

What is the regulatory body which oversees forex & CFD trading in Dubai?

Forex trading in the UAE is overseen by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).

Is a physical presence in Dubai required to obtain a forex broker license there?

Yes. Any forex broker wishing to obtain license approval by the DFSA must maintain a local office and employ executive staff members.

How can I see if a forex broker is regulated in Dubai?

One can visit the website of the DFSA where an online directory of all authorised firms is published.

Are there any regulatory jurisdictions similar to Dubai?

Forex broker regulation in the Middle East isn’t clear cut. There are countries like Jordan where forex trading is outright banned, in others like Lebanon it is regulated but with strict requirements and in others its a grey area without any set regulation. Outside of the Middle East, brokers may wish to consider a forex broker license in Labuan, Malaysia due to predominance of the Muslim faith in the region.