eToro Expands UAE Investment Access with New Portfolio

eToro, a trading and investment platform, has launched a UAE-Economy Smart Portfolio, granting retail investors worldwide access to companies listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and Dubai Financial Market (DFM). This development was announced in the United Arab Emirates on December 10, 2025. The move is significant from a business perspective as it opens up one of the fastest-growing economies to a broader pool of global investors, potentially increasing foreign participation and enhancing market liquidity. According to eToro, the portfolio includes a selection of companies that offer attractive dividend yields.

In tandem with this announcement, eToro has released findings from its latest Retail Investor Beat survey. The survey, which gathered insights from 11,000 investors across 13 countries, reveals that 56 percent of respondents anticipate the continuation of the current bull market into the next year. Confidence among investors remains robust, with 78 percent feeling assured in their portfolio performance, while 51 percent believe they are on track to meet their investment objectives. However, investors have noted several concerns, including political uncertainty, geopolitical instability, and slowing economic growth, affecting 43 percent, 40 percent, and 34 percent of respondents, respectively. Additionally, 51 percent of those surveyed have adjusted their portfolios in response to expected interest rate changes, favoring growth stocks and cryptocurrencies.

George Naddaf, Managing Director of eToro MENA, highlighted the UAE’s rapid economic expansion, driven by strong GDP growth, government reforms, and a diversifying economy beyond oil sectors. He pointed out that local companies, particularly in the banking, telecommunications, and energy sectors, are known for their high dividend yields. The newly launched portfolio encompasses 20 leading UAE-listed companies across various sectors such as banking, real estate, energy, utilities, telecommunications, and logistics. Naddaf emphasized that the exchanges are swiftly becoming prominent capital markets in the Middle East, with increasing foreign investor participation and enhanced liquidity.

Stocks within the portfolio are selected based on criteria such as market capitalization, liquidity, key financial ratios, and analyst consensus ratings. The portfolio offers an average dividend yield of 3.75%, with certain stocks providing yields as high as 7%, compared to the S&P 500’s average of 1.15%. The minimum investment requirement is set at USD 500, and investors can monitor portfolio performance using eToro’s analytical tools and social feed for updates.

The integration of UAE stocks into eToro’s offerings began earlier in the year. In August, eToro added 10 stocks from the Dubai Financial Market, spanning sectors like real estate, banking, utilities, logistics, and transport. Notable inclusions were Dubai Electricity & Water Authority, Emaar Properties, and Dubai Islamic Bank, with a combined market capitalization of over USD 124 billion. Prior to this, in February, eToro incorporated more than 30 stocks from the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, covering industries such as energy, real estate, banking, technology, and healthcare. The ADX’s total market capitalization exceeds USD 700 billion. Naddaf stated that these additions allow global users to diversify their portfolios while providing local investors access to companies they recognize.

As eToro continues to expand its offerings in the UAE market, it not only facilitates increased diversification for its users but also encourages greater foreign investment into the region. The introduction of this portfolio underscores a strategic move to leverage the economic growth and reform initiatives currently underway in the UAE. Looking ahead, eToro plans to further enhance its platform capabilities and investment offerings, aligning with evolving market dynamics and investor preferences. The company will continue to update investors on portfolio performance and market changes, ensuring transparency and informed decision-making.