According to new research from investment platform eToro, 87% of retail investors in the UAE now rely on fintech platforms to manage their finances, marking a significant shift in how financial services are accessed and trusted across the region.
The survey highlights Dubai’s ascent as one of the world’s top five fintech cities, reflecting the UAE’s broader transformation in investor behaviour.
George Naddaf, Managing Director MENA at eToro, commented:
“Dubai’s position among the world’s top five fintech cities reflects a broader transformation in how investors across the UAE are engaging with financial services. eToro’s data shows a clear preference for fintech solutions, with half of retail investors now using crypto exchanges, and many turning to personal finance apps at 32 percent and robo-advisors at 20 percent to manage their money.”
“This growing reliance on fintech is not marginal, it is mainstream. Over a quarter of investors, 26 percent, use only fintech providers for their financial needs, while 36 percent depend on them for most of their activity. Even those still engaging with traditional financial institutions are integrating fintech tools, creating a more hybrid financial experience.”
However, the survey also revealed a knowledge gap that could challenge this fintech-driven momentum.
Despite the widespread adoption of new platforms, many investors find certain financial products complex.
Cryptoassets ranked as the most difficult to understand at 33% , followed by commodities at 30% and exchange-traded funds at 29%.
Naddaf added:
“While adoption is widespread, understanding still lags. This underlines a critical challenge, as fintech platforms become the go-to for financial engagement, there is a growing need to support investors with accessible and high-quality education.”
“Fintech is clearly shaping the future of finance in the UAE, not just by offering new tools but by redefining how and where investors make decisions. Ensuring those decisions are informed will be key to sustaining this momentum.”
Featured image credit: edited from freepik
