How to invest in Dubai stock market

If you want to buy shares on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) (for example Salik, DEWA, and other listed companies), the first thing you typically need is your DFM Investor Number, also known as NIN. DFM indicates you can obtain it online using official channels like the DFM App or iVestor App.

1) What is a DFM Investor Number (NIN) and why you need it
A NIN is your investor identification number with the Dubai CSD (Dubai Central Securities Depository). It’s used to register you as an investor and is commonly required before you can trade/hold DFM securities through participating channels.

TIP– I strongly suggest that you learn how to invest & trade stocks before putting your hard earned money in the markets.

2) Can you apply online (without visiting)?
Yes. DFM states personal presence is not required and you can use official digital channels such as the DFM App and iVestor App.

3) Documents to prepare (UAE residents vs non-residents)
Exact requirements can vary depending on your investor type, but you should generally prepare:

UAE residents
Emirates ID

Basic personal details

A mobile number you can receive SMS on (important for updates/verification)

Non-UAE residents
Passport

Basic personal details

A mobile number you can receive SMS on

Official NIN request materials indicate the request is processed after submission and the investor number is sent once processed (often by SMS).

4) Step-by-step: Apply for NIN using the DFM App
DFM indicates you can apply via the DFM App. The general flow is:

Install and open the DFM App

Start the Investor Number (NIN) application

Complete identity verification and upload the requested document(s)

Submit the request

Receive your NIN after processing (timing can vary by channel)

5) Step-by-step: Apply for NIN using iVestor
DFM describes iVestor as an official investor platform for DFM that supports investor services (including onboarding flows).

Typical flow:

Install iVestor

Start registration / onboarding

Provide the required identity details and documents

Submit and follow the in-app instructions for investor services

6) How long does it take to get a DFM Investor Number?
Processing time can vary depending on the channel you use, your investor type, and verification requirements. DFM’s FAQ-style guidance indicates some channels can be very fast, while others may take longer.

A safe expectation:

Sometimes quick, sometimes up to a working day or more, depending on channel and verification.

7) After you get your NIN: how to start buying shares
Your NIN is step one. Next, you need a trading route (broker/app) to place orders.

Typical sequence:

Get NIN

Open or link a trading account (broker/app route)

Fund your account

Place a buy order

8) What is the iVestor Card?
DFM/iVestor materials describe the iVestor card as part of the investor ecosystem for handling certain investor-related needs (and some documentation references dividends/payment workflows). Availability and usage can depend on your setup and eligibility.

DISCLAIMER - This is not a sponsored content, this information is for educational purpose, before investing in any financial market please do your own research.