7 minute read
Can We Use Quotex in Dubai? A Straightforward Guide
from QUOTEX
If you're living in Dubai and considering using Quotex for online trading, the first question you should ask is: Is Quotex legal and accessible in Dubai?
The short answer: Yes, you can technically use Quotex in Dubai, but there are critical legal, regulatory, and practical considerations you need to understand first.
This article dives straight into what you need to know — from the legality of online trading platforms in the UAE, how Quotex fits into the picture, what risks you may face, and what safer alternatives exist.
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What Is Quotex?
Quotex is a digital trading platform that offers binary options, forex, crypto, and other assets. It became popular due to its simple interface, fast registration, low deposit requirements, and access to high-risk/high-reward trading instruments like binary options.
But here’s the catch: Quotex is not regulated by any financial authority within the UAE — which makes all the difference in how it’s perceived and treated under the law in Dubai.
The Legal Status of Quotex in Dubai
1. Quotex Is Not Licensed by the UAE
Dubai is part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has a strict regulatory framework for financial services. The primary financial regulators in the UAE are:
The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) – for mainland financial activities
Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) – for the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) – for Abu Dhabi’s financial free zone
Quotex does not hold a license from any of these regulators. Instead, it is registered in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, a jurisdiction often associated with offshore brokers.
This lack of regulation within the UAE means Quotex is considered an unlicensed and unauthorized platform.
2. Binary Options Are Generally Restricted
Binary options — which are a major part of Quotex’s offering — are considered extremely risky and speculative. Many financial regulators around the world, including the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) and U.S. SEC, have banned or restricted them for retail traders.
In the UAE, offering or promoting binary options without a license is not allowed. While you won’t necessarily be prosecuted for using such platforms, they operate in a legal gray area — and you’ll have no legal protection if anything goes wrong.
Is It Illegal to Use Quotex in Dubai?
No, using Quotex in Dubai is not explicitly illegal for individuals, but it is:
Unregulated: The platform is not approved or monitored by UAE regulators.
Risky: You have no legal recourse if you lose money due to fraud, technical issues, or manipulation.
Blocked by ISPs (sometimes): Access to Quotex is occasionally restricted by UAE internet service providers, although many users bypass this using VPNs (which is also a legal gray area).
So, while you're unlikely to be fined or jailed just for using Quotex, you are doing so entirely at your own risk.
Using VPNs to Access Quotex in Dubai: Is It Legal?
Many users in Dubai report that Quotex is blocked or limited when accessed from UAE IP addresses. As a result, they turn to VPNs to access the platform.
While using VPNs in the UAE is not illegal per se, using a VPN to access services that are restricted or banned locally can be punishable by law. This includes:
Accessing VoIP services (like Skype, WhatsApp calls) blocked in the UAE
Accessing gambling or pornography sites
Accessing unlicensed trading platforms like Quotex
In 2021, UAE Cybercrime Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 34) made it clear that using a VPN to commit a crime or bypass restrictions can result in heavy fines — up to AED 2,000,000 and even jail time.
Therefore, if you're using a VPN to access Quotex, you're potentially entering a legally risky territory.
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What Are the Risks of Using Quotex in Dubai?
No Legal Protection: If Quotex freezes your funds or shuts down, you can’t take legal action in the UAE.
Withdrawal Issues: Many users report long delays or issues when withdrawing profits.
Technical Manipulation: Unregulated binary options platforms have been accused of manipulating charts or trade execution.
Loss of Funds: Due to high-risk trading and lack of investor protection, the chance of losing all your funds is significant.
Violation of Local Laws: Using VPNs or engaging with unlicensed platforms may put you at odds with UAE regulations.
Are There Legal Alternatives to Quotex in Dubai?
Yes, there are several fully legal and regulated trading platforms in the UAE that provide better investor protection and more transparency.
1. International Brokers Regulated in Tier-1 Jurisdictions
While they may not have a UAE license, brokers regulated by UK’s FCA, Australia’s ASIC, or the U.S. CFTC are considered reputable. Examples include:
IG
Interactive Brokers
Saxo Bank
eToro
CMC Markets
These platforms do not offer binary options, but they do offer forex, CFDs, stocks, ETFs, and crypto (depending on regulations).
2. Local UAE-Regulated Brokers
If you're looking for peace of mind and legal safety, go with brokers licensed by SCA, DFSA, or ADGM:
Sarwa – Licensed robo-advisor and stock/ETF trading platform
CBD Invest – From Commercial Bank of Dubai
FAB Securities – From First Abu Dhabi Bank
Emirates NBD Securities
These may not have the “fast money” appeal of binary options, but they’re legally compliant and far safer for long-term investing.
Why Do People Still Use Quotex in Dubai?
Despite the risks, many residents in Dubai still use Quotex for a few key reasons:
Low barrier to entry – You can start trading with as little as $10
High payout claims – Up to 95% return in minutes
No KYC needed – Some people prefer the anonymity
Gamified trading experience – It feels more like betting than investing
Marketing & influencers – Social media influencers aggressively promote Quotex, often downplaying the risks
However, most of these advantages come with a trade-off: higher risk, zero regulation, and no legal safety net.
Final Verdict: Should You Use Quotex in Dubai?
Let’s recap:
✅ Can you access Quotex in Dubai? Technically, yes — although you may need a VPN.
❌ Is Quotex licensed in Dubai or UAE? No.
⚠️ Is it safe to use Quotex? No. It’s high-risk and unregulated.
⚖️ Are there better alternatives? Yes — many regulated brokers exist with legal protection and long-term viability.
So, should you use Quotex in Dubai?
Only if you are fully aware of the risks, are not using it as your primary investment method, and are prepared to lose 100% of your capital.
For most people, especially residents in a highly regulated country like the UAE, the answer should be: No, it's not worth the risk.
FAQs About Quotex in Dubai
1. Can I withdraw my profits from Quotex in Dubai?
Yes, withdrawals are technically possible, but many users report delays or issues. Also, you have no legal recourse if something goes wrong.
2. Is Quotex blocked in the UAE?
It can be. Some users report it’s intermittently blocked by ISPs. Using a VPN may bypass this, but it can be legally risky.
3. What’s the minimum deposit on Quotex?
$10, which makes it appealing to beginners — but also increases the risk of reckless trading.
4. Is Quotex legal for expats in Dubai?
There’s no specific law against expats using it, but the platform itself is not authorized under UAE law. The risks remain the same.
Conclusion
While Quotex may look like an easy way to trade and make money, using it in Dubai is risky both legally and financially. The platform is not regulated in the UAE, binary options themselves are controversial and restricted, and you may be violating local laws by accessing it via VPN.
If you're serious about investing or trading in Dubai, choose a regulated broker that offers transparency, investor protection, and long-term security.
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