UAE traders cite hidden fees and withdrawal delays as Key broker concerns, research finds

Hidden fees, withdrawal delays and uncertainty about regulatory status are among the leading concerns of retail traders in the United Arab Emirates, according to research conducted by UAE-based brokerage company Definite.

Three online surveys conducted between May and December 2025 covered 1,707 UAE-based retail investors and traders. They examined broker selection, trading habits, customer frustrations and trust.

In the most recent survey, 42% of respondents cited hidden fees as a reason for stopping use of a broker. Lack of trust was mentioned by 31%, while 29% identified high spreads or fees. Poor customer support and slow withdrawals were among other reported concerns.

An earlier survey found that 41% of respondents were frustrated by slow withdrawals, 38% by a lack of transparency and 34% by unclear fees. Asked what might prompt them to change brokers, 32% cited high spreads, commissions or hidden fees, compared with 31% who identified insufficient transparency or unclear regulatory status.

Security and transparency shape broker choice

When selecting a broker, respondents most frequently identified a safe and secure trading platform (33%), followed by easy withdrawals (27%), licensing and regulation (26%) and fast withdrawals (25%).

In a May 2025 survey, factors contributing to broker trust included strong security measures (48%), positive customer reviews (47%), clear communication about risks (47%), responsive customer support (46%) and transparent pricing without hidden fees (45%). Regulatory compliance and licensing were cited by 37%.

“Trading will always involve uncertainty. That is the nature of markets,” said Husein Al Koofee, Head of Category 1 at Definite. “But our research shows that traders do not want additional uncertainty from the broker itself.”

Ahead of its planned UAE trading platform launch, Definite says the findings support its approach to transparent, locally relevant trading through clear account processes, accessible support and decision-support tools. It sees a shift from market access towards market assurance: clarity in trading conditions, processes and information.

About the research

The three online surveys took place between May and December 2025. Results show shares of eligible respondents; sample sizes vary across questions and studies.

 The surveys were not probability samples of all UAE traders, so the findings should not be treated as representative of the wider market.

About Definite

Definitecom Financial Brokerage Services LLC is a UAE-based brokerage company preparing to launch a trading platform, with planned Arabic- and English-language customer support. According to the company, it is regulated by the Capital Market Authority (CMA), under Category 1 Licence No. 20200000462 and Category 5 Licence No. 20200000460.

Risk warning

Trading CFDs and leveraged products involves a high level of risk and may result in loss of invested capital. Definite does not provide investment advice, portfolio management or discretionary management services.

Media contact

Mohammad Taha | Head of Category 5, Definite | [email protected] | +971 56 411 7623