UAE Investment Accounts for Expats: Sarwa, Stashaway, Etoro

Why expats in the UAE choose local robo-advisors

Many expats prefer UAE-regulated platforms because they simplify tax reporting and avoid foreign account complications. Sarwa, StashAway, and eToro all accept non-residents with an Emirates ID and valid ICP visa. Each platform lets you invest in diversified portfolios starting from AED 2,000 to AED 5,000.

Sarwa: low-cost, Sharia-compliant options

Sarwa offers automated portfolios with an all-in fee of 0.85 percent per year on assets under AED 375,000. The minimum to start is AED 2,500. Portfolios include global equities, sukuk, and real estate ETFs. You open an account in under ten minutes via their app using Emirates ID and a selfie. No lock-in period applies, and withdrawals reach your UAE bank account in two business days.

StashAway: flexible risk levels and cash management

StashAway lets you choose risk scores from 1 to 10. The management fee is 0.8 percent annually on the first AED 375,000 and 0.5 percent above that. Minimum investment is AED 3,750. The platform also offers a cash-plus product paying around 4.5 percent in 2026, held with UAE banks. Funding works via local bank transfer or debit card. You can pause contributions anytime without penalty.

eToro: direct stock and crypto trading

eToro allows expats to trade individual shares, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies with a minimum deposit of USD 200. Commission-free stock and ETF trades apply up to USD 100,000 volume per month. Crypto spreads start at 0.75 percent. The platform is regulated by VARA in Dubai. Withdrawals to UAE banks take one to three business days and cost AED 15 per transfer.

Comparing fees and tax treatment in 2026

Sarwa and StashAway both charge under 1 percent all-in and hold assets with UAE custodians, so no foreign estate tax issues arise. eToro charges nothing for most equity trades but adds currency conversion fees of 0.5 percent. All three platforms issue annual statements that comply with UAE tax rules; expats do not pay capital gains tax on personal investments.

Step-by-step: opening your first account

• Download the app and select “UAE resident”.
• Scan your Emirates ID and passport.
• Complete a short risk questionnaire.
• Link your UAE bank account for funding.
• Transfer the minimum amount and confirm via OTP.

Most accounts activate within one business day. After setup, you receive a welcome email from the platform with your account number and fee schedule.

Ask Tovi for more

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything. Ask Tovi free →

Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →