baraka Expands Services to Include DFM and ADX Investments

baraka, an investment platform based in Dubai, has expanded its services to allow customers to invest in companies listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX). This move, which comes as part of baraka’s broader strategy to become a comprehensive investment platform, marks a significant step in providing UAE investors with direct access to local securities.

The platform, regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority, now supports more than 70% of its investor base, which consists of individuals under 35 years old. This demographic represents a growing trend in regional capital markets, with younger investors showing increasing interest in equity investments. According to baraka, the number of customers investing in UAE stocks has increased more than 25 times since the initial pre-launch pilot in August.

The launch of DFM and ADX investments comes at a time when the UAE's domestic capital markets are witnessing significant growth. DFM reported a market capitalization of AED 981.6 billion by the end of June 2026, with a 40.4% year-over-year increase in total traded value to AED 119.5 billion during the first half of the year. The average daily traded value reached over AED 1 billion, and the exchange added 42,864 new investors, with international investors accounting for 71.4% of new registrations.

ADX, on the other hand, had a market capitalization of AED 2.8 trillion by the end of June 2026, with a trading value of AED 171 billion and a total trading volume of 50.3 billion shares. The exchange added more than 30,000 new investors, with 77% being foreign investors.

The expansion into local markets is seen as a response to growing demand among baraka’s customer base. Among the UAE stocks that have garnered the most interest are Emaar Properties, ADNOC Gas, ADNOC Distribution, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, and Salik. These companies span various sectors, including real estate, energy, banking, and infrastructure.

The inclusion of DFM and ADX stocks in baraka’s platform is facilitated by a Direct Market Access (DMA) facility provided by Arqaam Capital, enabling seamless integration. Investors can now fund local investments in AED and hold these shares under the custodianship of Emirates NBD. This move is expected to provide a wide range of investment opportunities, including dividends, alongside potential long-term capital growth.

Feras Jalbout, Founder and CEO of baraka, expressed his enthusiasm about the development, stating, "The opportunity set in the UAE has expanded dramatically, with the businesses shaping the country's growth now accessible through its public markets. For Emiratis and residents, this is an opportunity to own a stake in the economy and build their future through equity investments."

Since the availability of local investing, 87% of UAE-stock orders placed through baraka have been purchase orders, indicating a focus on building long-term positions in local companies. The median annual amount deposited by an active baraka investor has roughly tripled over the past four years, reflecting a growing interest in equity investments.

The addition of local markets to baraka’s platform is part of its broader strategy to offer a comprehensive range of investment options, including US securities, options trading, Sharia-compliant investment choices, and precious metals. In July 2026, baraka received approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority for its Islamic Window application, allowing it to offer both conventional and Sharia-compliant assets.

baraka Financial Limited, registered in the Dubai International Financial Centre, is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority. The platform aims to educate its users through its app, investment academy, and financial education content, helping them build their investment knowledge and manage their portfolios effectively.

This development underscores the growing importance of digital investment platforms in the UAE, providing a convenient and accessible way for residents to participate in the country’s economic growth. As the platform continues to evolve, it is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of investment in the region.