Best Crypto Exchanges in UAE and Dubai in 2025

OKX has firmly planted its roots in the UAE, becoming one of the best cryptocurrency exchange platforms in the region following its licensed launch in October 2024. The platform provides local investors with access to advanced trading tools and local AED-based markets.

As global interest in secure and compliant digital asset platforms intensifies, OKX has gained recognition as one of the best cryptocurrency exchanges in UAE circles. Its smooth onboarding process and broad range of trading services tailored to the region’s residents show a clear intent to lead in this fast-growing market.

As a side note, individuals seeking to access advanced trading features as 'qualified' investors must complete a knowledge test, pass a suitability check, and provide proof of AED 500,000 in liquid assets. Institutional participants must also complete enhanced Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures and meet specific financial benchmarks to gain full access.

Key Features

OKX’s expansion into Dubai comes with a suite of features that reflect both regulatory awareness and user-first design. These features are particularly relevant to traders in the UAE and those comparing Dubai crypto exchanges for serious investing:

• AED On-Ramp and Off-Ramp. Buy and sell crypto directly using AED through local bank transfers. Trading pairs like BTC/AED and ETH/AED support a seamless experience catering to local preferences.
• Comprehensive Asset Selection. Over 280 cryptocurrencies and 480 trading pairs are available, providing traders in the UAE with exposure to both global and regional assets.
• Access to Derivatives for Qualified Users. Institutional and qualified investors can access futures, perpetuals, and options after meeting asset and knowledge requirements set by local regulators.

• Secure Infrastructure and Proof of Reserves. Cold wallet custody, 1:1 reserve ratios, and regular audits help reinforce trust and meet high security standards.
• Advanced Trading Suite. Tools include spot, margin, perpetual swaps, DeFi access, and strategy-rich investment products built for both day traders and long-term planners.
• P2P and Local Fiat Options. Buy and sell cryptocurrency through the peer-to-peer platform, utilizing region-friendly payment methods for added convenience and flexibility.

OKX continues to raise the bar among Dubai crypto exchanges by merging regulatory clarity with deep liquidity and tech-focused trading features.

Coinbase is one of the most well-known and user-friendly cryptocurrency exchanges globally, especially popular in the United States. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in San Francisco, it has grown into a publicly traded company (NASDAQ: COIN), which adds to its credibility and transparency. Coinbase is often the first choice for beginners due to its simple interface and straightforward buying process.

As of 2025, Coinbase supports over 290 cryptocurrencies, including major assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and a wide range of altcoins. It caters to different user levels through two platforms:

• Coinbase (Standard Platform): Focused on beginners, offering easy buying, selling, and holding of crypto.
• Coinbase Advanced (formerly Coinbase Pro): Designed for more experienced traders, providing advanced charting tools, lower fees, and a range of order types.

Coinbase places a strong emphasis on security to protect user funds and data. It secures approximately 98% of customer assets in cold storage, keeping them offline and away from potential hackers. Additionally, two-factor authentication (2FA) is required for account access, adding an extra layer of protection.

For US-based customers, USD balances are FDIC-insured up to $250,000, providing a safety net in case of platform issues. Sensitive user data is safeguarded through encryption protocols, ensuring that personal and financial information remains private. Coinbase also runs a bug bounty program, encouraging security researchers to report vulnerabilities, which helps maintain the platform’s robust defense systems.

Crypto.com has made serious inroads into the UAE crypto market by securing multiple layers of regulatory approval. Its Dubai entity, CRO DAX Middle East FZE, received full operational clearance from VARA in April 2024.

These developments signal a deep alignment with local compliance standards and showcase Crypto.com's ambitions to support a fully licensed, globally connected hub in Dubai. That regulatory momentum gives it a compelling case as one of the best crypto exchanges in the UAE.

Its growing service suite is now supported by partnerships with major banks such as Standard Chartered, streamlining access to USD deposit and withdrawal rails across the UAE. For everyday users, the platform continues to deliver core features, including spot trading, OTC desks, and asset management tools, all backed by its well-established global infrastructure.

Key Features

The following features reflect Crypto.com's expanding role in the Dubai crypto ecosystem and its broader trading capabilities:

• Banking Access via Standard Chartered. Retail users in the UAE can deposit and withdraw USD directly using fiat rails powered by Standard Chartered.
• Spot and OTC Trading. Access both traditional spot markets and over-the-counter services directly through the Crypto.com Exchange (UAE).
• Trading Bots and Sub-Accounts. Automate strategies or manage client portfolios using built-in tools, available under institutional or advanced retail accounts.

• CRO Lockup and Supercharger. Engage in rewards-based systems tied to the CRO token through local or global staking programs.
• Multi-Chain Wallet. Utilize Crypto.com Onchain for secure asset management across various ecosystems, including Ethereum, Cronos, and Solana.

Crypto.com continues to evolve rapidly across both retail and institutional layers, and Dubai’s regulatory framework has only sharpened its focus on long-term growth in the UAE.

CEX.IO continues to gain traction among Dubai's crypto exchanges, particularly for users who prioritize simplicity and legal peace of mind.

While the Central Bank of the UAE hasn’t formally licensed cryptocurrency as legal tender, platforms like CEX.IO remain fully accessible to residents, allowing them to safely own and trade digital assets.

Its growing reputation among users searching for the best crypto exchange in the UAE has a lot to do with its locally friendly onboarding methods. Residents in the region can buy crypto through familiar payment channels and use tools like Instant Buy to acquire coins directly from their devices.

Key Features

Let’s walk through the tools and services that make CEX.IO a reliable option among Dubai crypto exchanges and broader UAE users:

• Instant Buy. UAE-based traders can quickly purchase crypto via credit or debit cards using AED-converted funds, processed in a few clicks.
• Over 200 Curated Crypto Assets. Every crypto listed on CEX.IO undergoes a vetting process, helping users in the UAE avoid less reputable tokens.
• User-Friendly Multi-Platform Experience. Newcomers in Dubai often favor CEX.IO’s simple layout, which shortens the learning curve without sacrificing features.

• Spot Trading With Flexible Fee Tiers. CEX.IO’s spot market supports more advanced trading strategies, and trading costs decrease with higher trading volumes.
• CEX.IO Earn. Users can put idle crypto to work through yield-generating tools directly on the platform.
• Educational Resources. New users can tap into guides and tutorials covering everything from wallets to market behavior.

Put simply, UAE-based traders seeking to balance convenience with regulatory confidence may find CEX.IO a suitable fit for their cryptocurrency journey.

HTX (formerly Huobi) has carved out a strong presence in the UAE market, emerging as a major player among Dubai’s regulated exchanges. The platform recorded impressive growth in Q1 2025, becoming the only top 10 global exchange to boost its spot trading volume, while surpassing 50 million registered users and seeing a 210% increase in net deposits.

Security, transparency, and market responsiveness continue to shape HTX’s identity, alongside deeper DAO integration that brings users into the decision-making process. Justin Sun, Advisor to HTX and Founder of TRON, even stated:

We are completely focused on the Middle East and are also targeting clients from the CIS region and Europe

Its momentum in the Emirates received a further boost when HTX received initial approval for a Full Market Product license from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA).

This recognition strengthens HTX’s foothold among those searching for the best cryptocurrency exchange in UAE, especially for traders looking to explore both centralized tools and decentralized governance through HTX DAO.

Key Features

Several tools and services support HTX’s rise in Dubai and across the UAE:

• DAO-Powered Governance. Users can participate in exchange decision-making by voting on listings and changes through the HTX DAO.
• Over 700 Supported Cryptocurrencies. UAE-based traders gain access to a wide variety of vetted digital assets, including trending altcoins and legacy tokens.
• Spot, Margin, and Futures Trading. HTX accommodates different trading strategies, from basic buy-and-hold to complex leveraged positions.

• Automated Trading Tools. Built-in bots and strategy support help streamline trading even while on the move.
• HTX Mobile App. UAE users can monitor prices, manage portfolios, and execute trades anytime via their preferred device.
• Tiered Fee Structure. Traders can lower fees, starting at 0.1%, by increasing their volume or paying fees using HTX’s native token.

HTX’s regulatory progress, growing traction in the UAE, and high-volume support make it a powerful choice for crypto traders who want a secure and feature-rich platform within Dubai’s expanding digital economy.

Kraken is one of the longest-standing and most reputable cryptocurrency exchanges in the world, founded in 2011 and based in San Francisco, USA. It is known for its strong focus on security, regulatory compliance, and a diverse range of supported cryptocurrencies. As of 2024, Kraken supports over 430 cryptocurrencies, making it one of the more versatile platforms for traders and investors looking to access a broad selection of digital assets.

Kraken is popular among both beginners and experienced traders because it offers a variety of trading options, including spot trading, margin trading, futures contracts, and staking services. Its trading fees are competitive, typically ranging between 0.00% and 0.4%, depending on the user’s trading volume and order type.

Security is one of Kraken’s most notable strengths. It employs cold storage for the majority of user funds, two-factor authentication (2FA), SSL encryption, and strict surveillance of its systems. Additionally, Kraken has a Proof of Reserves audit feature, ensuring customers that their funds are adequately backed.

The platform also follows regulations in multiple regions worldwide, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. So, it is a great option if you’re looking for a platform with strong regulatory compliance.

BYDFi is a cryptocurrency exchange platform that aims to provide a user-friendly experience for both novice and experienced traders. While relatively newer compared to some established giants, BYDFi has focused on offering a diverse range of trading options. Some of BYDFi’s key features include:

• Spot Trading: Buy and sell cryptocurrencies at current market prices.
• Derivatives Trading: Trade cryptocurrency futures and options contracts.
• Copy Trading: Automatically replicate the trades of experienced traders.
• Mobile App: Trade on iOS and Android devices.
• Educational Resources: Guides and tutorials for learning about crypto trading.
• Trading Bots: Use automated tools to trade cryptocurrencies like a pro.

The platform supports more than 400 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC). BYDFi also aims to provide competitive trading fees by offering a flat maker/taker rate of 0.1% on its spot trading platform.

When it comes to security, BYDFi implements essential measures to ensure users' data and funds safety. It uses Amazon Web Services, multi-factor authentication and hardware verification, as well as SHA512 with 512-bit encryption to protect the system. Users can also use two-factor authentication (2FA) using Google Authenticator and SMS to protect their accounts.