Picking the best crypto exchanges in Saudi Arabia for 2025 is more than just about trading. It’s also about finding a place that won’t leave you frustrated with slow withdrawals, sky-high fees, or sketchy security.
And let’s be honest, no one wants to deal with an exchange that suddenly “freezes” accounts when things get interesting.
Crypto in Saudi Arabia has been booming, with trading volumes surging past $1.5 billion annually. People are looking for safe, reliable platforms that don’t just work but work well. Some exchanges offer Arabic support, others shine with their low fees, and then there are the ones that just throw in flashy ads without delivering much.
If you’ve ever been stuck waiting on a withdrawal that feels like it’s coming via camel instead of blockchain, you know why picking the right exchange matters.
So which exchanges actually deliver? Which ones protect your money like it’s their own, and which ones will have you regretting your decision? Let’s break it all down.
Key Takeaways
- Picking the right crypto exchanges in Saudi Arabia means balancing low fees, fast withdrawals, and strong security.
- UEEx, Rain, Binance, OKX, and others offer unique benefits, from low fees to advanced trading tools.
- Exchanges like Rain and BitOasis provide Arabic support and SAR transactions, making trading easier for Saudi users.
- Crypto trading is legal but not fully regulated in Saudi Arabia, so using reputable and licensed platforms is key.
| Exchange | Best For | Trading Fees | Max Leverage | Available Assets | Local Fiat Support – Saudi Riyal (SAR) | Security Features | Unique Features |
| UEEx | Overall | 0.09% (discount of up to 50% with UE Coin holders). | 200x | 300+ | N/A | – Distributed cold storage, – Access control with IP and wallet whitelisting, – Proof of Reserve- Two-factor authentication (2FA) | UE Coin Miner app, copy trading, access to US and Hong Kong stocks, Advanced trading tools |
| Rain | Regulatory compliance and local currency support | 0% crypto trading fees | 20+ | YES | – Bank-grade security protocols– Encryption– Cold storage | Strong focus on regulation and compliance in the Middle East | |
| Binance | Wide Range of Cryptocurrencies | Standard fee of 0.1% per trade for both makers and takers | Varies by contract | 500+ | YES | Cold storage, Encryption, 2FA, Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) | High liquidity, margin and futures trading |
| OKX | Advanced Trading Features | Starts at 0.1%, with reductions for higher trading volumes or OKB token use | 100x for futures and 10x for spot | 300+ | YES | 2FA, cold storage, SSL and other encryption technologies | Low trading fees, staking, yield farming, and NFT trading |
| Bybit | High leverage option | 0.1% Maker/Taker (spot trading) | 100x | 300+ | YES | 2FA, Cold storage | Extensive derivatives offerings, Copy trading, Trading bots |
| Bitstamp | Strong security measures | Tiered fee structure, with a standard 0.5% trading fee for trades under $10,000 | N/A | 80+ | N/A | Offline storage, Encrypted data, 2FA, whitelisting | High liquidity, and ease of use |
| BitOasis | Arabic language support | Varies depending on account type. Lite accounts have zero trading fees, while Pro accounts incur fees of 0.055% – 0.10% for makers and 0.1% – 0.18% for takers. | 79+ | YES | Defense in Depth (DiD), MFA, Cold storage | Arabic language support, BitOasis Print |
UEEx – Overall Best
UEEx is a crypto trading platform that has gained traction among Saudi traders for its low trading fees, wide range of cryptocurrencies, stocks trading option, high maximum leverage, user-friendly interface and commitment to security and privacy.
Launched in 2021, UEEx offers a seamless trading experience with a focus on low trading fees (as low as 0.09%), which is one of the best in the region.
Not only does the platform support over 300 cryptocurrencies, it also allows traders to diversify their portfolios effectively via stocks trading. It is presently the cryptocurrency exchange with the highest maximum leverage (200x) in Saudi Arabia.
UEEx‘s advanced security algorithms and the separation of hot and cold wallets ensure that users’ digital assets are stored securely and anonymously. The platform also has its own token, UECoin, which provides holders with discounted fees of up to 50%, and extra benefits.
Pros
- UEEx offers some of the most competitive fees in the industry (as low as 0.09%, with discounts for UECoin holders).
- The platform employs top-notch security protocols, including advanced encryption and a proprietary cold storage system, to protect user assets.
- With over 300 supported cryptocurrencies, users have ample options for trading and investment.
- UEEx offers maximum leverage of 200x.
- UEEx is designed to cater to both beginners and experienced traders, with a straightforward registration process and intuitive navigation.
- Their customer service is available 24/7.
Cons
- UEEx primarily focuses on cryptocurrency transactions, which may pose challenges for users looking to deposit or withdraw in local fiat currencies.
Fees and Deposits
- Trading fees: 0.09% (discount of up to 50% with UE Coin holders).
- Deposits: Free, except for select payment methods.
- Withdrawals: Fees vary by asset and chain network (for instance, 0.002 BTC for Bitcoin on both BSC and Omni networks. For USDT, the withdrawal fee is 1 USDT on BSC and TRC20 networks). Withdrawal / Transfer fee is free for UEEx to UEEx accounts.
Rain – Best for Regulatory Compliance and Local Currency Support
Rain was launched in 2017 by founders: Abdullah Almoaiqel, Yehia Badawy, AJ Nelson, and Dallago. They intended to create a platform for customers in the Middle East looking to buy, sell, and store cryptocurrency.
It is licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain as a Crypto Asset Brokerage, ensuring adherence to regional regulations.
Rain supports over 20 cryptocurrencies and allows transactions in local currencies, including the Saudi Riyal (SAR), making it convenient for Saudi users.
The platform offers bilingual customer support to cater to a diverse user base.
Pros
- Rain’s licensing by the Central Bank of Bahrain provides users with confidence in its adherence to financial regulations.
- The ability to transact in SAR simplifies the process for Saudi users, eliminating the need for currency conversion.
- The platform is designed to be accessible to both novice and experienced traders, with intuitive navigation and comprehensive support resources.
Cons
- While suitable for basic trading needs, advanced traders might find the platform lacking in sophisticated tools and features.
- Rain requires thorough user verification, which, while enhancing security, may be time-consuming for some users.
Fees and Deposits
- Trading fees: 0% crypto trading fees.
- Deposits: Free.
- Withdrawals: Fees vary by asset. A dynamic fee is charged for each cryptocurrency sent, to cover the cost of cryptocurrency network fees. Some fiat withdrawals are free too, like BHD.
Binance – Best for a Wide Range of Cryptocurrencies
Since its inception in 2017, Binance has grown to become one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, offering an extensive selection of over 500 cryptocurrencies.
Its expansion into the Saudi market has provided local traders with access to a vast array of digital assets. Binance is renowned for its low trading fees, and offers additional discounts for users who utilize its native token, BNB, for fee payments.
The platform also provides advanced trading features, including futures and margin trading. It caters to both beginners and seasoned traders.
Pros
- With support for over 500 digital assets, Binance offers unparalleled diversity for traders and investors.
- Low trading fees, with opportunities for further reductions, make Binance an attractive option for cost-conscious users.
- Features such as futures, margin trading, and various order types provide flexibility for different trading strategies.
Cons
- The wide range of features and options may be overwhelming for newcomers to cryptocurrency trading.
- Binance has faced regulatory challenges in various jurisdictions, which may concern some users regarding the platform’s long-term stability.
Fees and Deposits
- Trading Fees: Standard fee of 0.1% per trade for both makers and takers. (Takers pay a reduced rate of 0.095% when trading USDC). This can be reduced to 0.00825% for makers and 0.01725% for takers if paid in Binance Coin (BNB).
- Deposit Fees: Free for most cryptocurrency deposits; fiat deposit fees vary by payment method (e.g., 0.65% fee for online banking in AED, but AED bank transfers are free).
- Deposit Requirement: Varies based on coin and chain network.
- Withdrawal Fees: Varies based on blockchain network conditions.
OKX – Best for Advanced Trading Features
OKX, established in 2017, is a Seychelles-based cryptocurrency exchange renowned for its comprehensive suite of advanced trading tools. While it has a global presence, OKX has been accessible to Saudi Arabian traders since its inception, offering a platform that caters to both novice and professional traders.
The exchange supports over 300 cryptocurrencies, providing a vast array of trading pairs. Features include spot and margin trading, futures, options, and an integrated NFT marketplace. OKX’s commitment to security and innovation has solidified its reputation among the crypto community.
Pros
- Offers a variety of trading options, including futures and options, suitable for seasoned traders.
- Consistently ranks among the top exchanges by trading volume, ensuring efficient trade executions.
Cons
- The plethora of advanced features might be overwhelming for new users.
- Primarily a crypto-to-crypto platform, which may pose challenges for users looking to deposit or withdraw fiat currencies.
Fees and Deposits
- Trading Fees: Up to 0.08% for makers and 0.1% for takers, with reductions for higher trading volumes or OKB token use.
- Deposits: Free for crypto; fiat fees vary.
- Withdrawals: Varies based on cryptocurrency and network costs.
BitOasis – Best for Arabic Language Support
Founded in 2015, BitOasis is a Dubai-based cryptocurrency exchange that has been operational in Saudi Arabia. It is specifically tailored to serve the Middle Eastern market, offering services in both English and Arabic.
BitOasis supports over 79 cryptocurrencies, including major ones like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. Its user-friendly platform and regional focus make it a preferred choice for Arabic-speaking users seeking a reliable and accessible trading experience.
Pros
- Provides full platform functionality in Arabic, catering to native speakers.
- Operates under regional regulations, ensuring a secure trading environment.
- Simplifies the trading process, making it accessible to beginners.
Cons
- Supports fewer coins compared to global exchanges.
- Services are primarily focused on the Middle East, limiting access for users outside the region.
Fees and Deposits
- Trading Fees: Varies depending on account type. Lite accounts have zero trading fees, while Pro accounts incur fees of 0.055% – 0.10% for makers and 0.1% – 0.18% for takers.
- Deposit Fees: Cryptocurrency deposits are free. Fiat fees depend on payment method. Fiat deposits via Wire transfers and Easy Funding are free, while fiat deposits via cards incur a fee as low as 3.99%.
- Withdrawal Fees: Flat rates based on the asset.
Bitstamp – Best for Strong Security Measures
Established in 2011, Bitstamp is one of the longest-standing cryptocurrency exchanges globally, headquartered in Luxembourg. It has been serving Saudi Arabian users since 2013. The platform is known for its strong regulatory compliance and security measures.
Bitstamp supports up to 80 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple. Its commitment to adhering to financial regulations and implementing strong security protocols, makes it a trustworthy platform for traders prioritizing safety and compliance.
Pros
- Fully licensed in the EU, providing a secure trading environment.
- Employs industry-leading security protocols, including cold storage and two-factor authentication.
- Offers an intuitive interface suitable for both beginners and experienced traders.
Cons
- May not cater to traders seeking complex trading options like derivatives.
- Bank wire deposits can incur fees, which might be a consideration for some users.
Fees and Deposits
- Tiered fee structure, with a standard 0.5% trading fee for trades under $10,000.
- Cryptocurrency deposits are free, while card deposits incur a 5% fee.
- Withdrawal Fees: Vary by the type of withdrawal and the cryptocurrency being withdrawn.
Bybit – Best for High Leverage Options
Launched in 2018, Bybit is a cryptocurrency derivatives exchange headquartered in Singapore. It offers high leverage options of up to 100x on various trading pairs.
Bybit supports over 300 cryptocurrencies and focuses primarily on derivatives trading. Its platform is designed for professional traders seeking high-risk, high-reward opportunities. Advanced charting tools and an adequate matching engine complement Bybit.
Pros
- Offers up to 100x leverage, appealing to traders looking for significant exposure.
- Utilizes a multi-signature cold storage system and two-factor authentication to protect user funds.
- Bybit offers an Islamic Account with Shariah-compliant trading products, catering to Muslim traders.
Cons
- The availability of high leverage and advanced trading features may be overwhelming for novice traders.
- While Bybit allows fiat deposits, the options are somewhat limited, which may pose challenges for users looking to deposit or withdraw fiat currencies.
Fees and Deposits
- Trading Fees: Varies depending on VIP and Non-VIP levels. For spot trading, 0.005% – 0.1% for makers and 0.015% – 0.1% for takers.
- Deposit Fees: Cryptocurrency deposits are free. Fiat fees depend on payment method and region.
- Withdrawal Fees: Flat rates based on the asset, VIP level, and identity verification. Withdrawals from one Bybit account to another are free.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Crypto Exchange in Saudi Arabia
When choosing a cryptocurrency exchange in Saudi Arabia, there are several crucial factors to consider. The right platform can significantly impact your trading experience, from security and fees to ease of use and regulatory compliance.
Here are the most important factors to evaluate when selecting crypto exchanges in Saudi Arabia:
Security and Regulatory Compliance
Security is paramount when it comes to crypto trading. You want an exchange that prioritizes the safety of your funds and personal information. Regulatory compliance also provides an extra layer of protection by ensuring the exchange adheres to established financial rules.
Rain stands out for its strict adherence to regulatory guidelines. Licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain, it offers users a sense of security and confidence through comprehensive identity verification processes.
UEEx emphasizes privacy and uses advanced encryption and a proprietary cold storage system. Bitstamp holds EU licensing and industry-leading security protocols, such as cold storage and two-factor authentication (2FA).
Bybit, while offering good security measures like multi-signature wallets, operates without specific licensing in Saudi Arabia. On the other hand, Binance has faced regulatory challenges worldwide, which might raise concerns about long-term stability despite its strong security protocols.
| Exchange | Insurance | Cold Storage % | Regulatory Status | Security Features |
| UEEx | Yes | 93% | FINTRAC registered | Multi-factor authentication, Access control with IP, and wallet whitelisting |
| Rain | Yes | Undisclosed | Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) licensed | – Bank-grade security protocols– Encryption– Cold storage |
| Binance | SAFU | 90% | FSMA registered | Cold storage, Encryption, 2FA, Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) |
| Bitstamp | Yes | 98.00% | MiFID MTF license | Multi-sig, Cloudflare protection |
| BitOasis | Undisclosed | Undisclosed | Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) | Defense in Depth (DiD), MFA, Cold storage |
| OKX | Yes | 95% | EU licensed | 2FA, cold storage, Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) |
| Bybit | Yes | 99.50% | SATOS partnership | Multi-sig wallets, Regular audits |
Trading Fees and Costs
Fees can quickly eat into your profits if you’re not careful. Pay attention to the trading fees, deposit and withdrawal costs, and any hidden charges when choosing a crypto exchange.
For low fees, UEEx is an attractive option with trading fees as low as 0.09% and discounts of up to 50% for UE Coin holders. Binance also offers competitive rates, charging a standard 0.1% per trade, which can drop further when paying with Binance Coin (BNB).
For high-volume traders, OKX provides lower fees (0.08% for makers) with additional reductions for using their OKB token.
Rain offers 0% crypto trading fees. However, users should be mindful of dynamic withdrawal fees that vary by asset. BitOasis provides zero trading fees for Lite accounts, but Pro accounts incur charges ranging from 0.055% to 0.18%.
Bitstamp, on the other hand, uses a tiered fee system, with a relatively high standard trading fee of 0.5% for transactions under $10,000.
| Exchange | Spot Trading | Futures Trading | Deposit Fee | Withdrawal Fee (EUR) |
| UEEx | 0.09% (discount of up to 50% with UE Coin holders). | 0.05% | Zero | |
| Rain | 0% crypto trading fees | 0% | Zero | |
| Binance | Standard fee of 0.1% per trade for both makers and takers | 0% – 0.02% for maker and 0.017% – 0.05% for taker | Varies by coin/token and payment method | |
| Bitstamp | Maker: 0.00% – 0.30%Taker: 0.00% – 0.40% | 0.10% | Free | |
| BitOasis | Varies depending on account type. Lite accounts have zero trading fees, while Pro accounts incur fees of 0.055% – 0.10% for makers and 0.1% – 0.18% for takers. | Same as Spot | Free | |
| OKX | Starts at 0.1% for USDT pairs and 0.07% for crypto pairs, with reductions for higher trading volumes or OKB token use | Starts at 0.05% with reductions for higher trading volumes or OKB token use | Zero | |
| Bybit | 0.1% | 0.055% | Zero |
Cryptocurrency Selection
A diverse selection of cryptocurrencies allows you to explore a broader range of investment opportunities and trading strategies.
Binance supports over 500 cryptocurrencies, including major and emerging altcoins. UEEx and OKX both support more than 300 digital assets, providing ample opportunities for portfolio diversification. Bybit also offers over 300 cryptocurrencies but focuses primarily on derivatives trading.
Conversely, Rain lags behind in this aspect, supporting just over 20 cryptocurrencies, although it compensates with local currency support. BitOasis supports 79 cryptocurrencies, focusing on major assets and popular regional preferences. Bitstamp offers around 80 cryptocurrencies but prioritizes security and compliance over variety.
Deposit and Withdrawal Options
Convenient deposit and withdrawal methods are essential, particularly if you prefer using local fiat currencies like the Saudi Riyal (SAR).
For local users, Rain stands out by offering SAR deposits and fiat withdrawals, simplifying the process for Saudi residents. UEEx, Binance, and OKX primarily focus on crypto-to-crypto transactions. Bybit offers fiat deposits, but options are limited based on region and payment method.
| Exchange | Fiat Deposit Methods | Fiat Withdrawal Methods | Supported Fiat Currencies |
| UEEx | Bank transfer, Credit/debit card | Bank transfer | Limited (not specified) |
| Rain | Wire transfer, Bank transfer, Credit/Debit card | Bank transfer | SAR, USD, AED, KWD, QAR, OMR, BHD |
| Binance | Bank transfer, Credit/debit card, Third-party payment providers | Bank transfer, Credit/debit card | EUR, USD, GBP, and others |
| Bitstamp | ACH, SEPA transfer, Credit/debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal | Bank transfer, SEPA transfer, SWIFT transfer | EUR, USD, GBP, and others |
| BitOasis | Wire Transfer, Easy Funding, Credit/Debit card | Bank transfer | SAR, USD, AED, KWD, QAR, OMR, BHD |
| OKX | Bank transfer, Credit/debit card, Third-party payment providers | SEPA bank transfer, International wire transfer | USD, EUR, GBP and others |
| Bybit | Bank transfer via SATOS | Bank transfer via SATOS | EUR |
User Experience and Customer Support
An intuitive interface and responsive customer support can significantly enhance your trading experience.
UEEx stands out here, with a user-friendly platform designed for both beginners and experienced traders, along with 24/7 customer service. Rain offers bilingual customer support (Arabic and English) and an easy-to-use interface tailored for Middle Eastern users. BitOasis also provides full Arabic language support, making it accessible to native speakers.
Binance and OKX offer advanced features, which may be overwhelming for beginners despite their comprehensive help resources. Bybit caters to professional traders with advanced tools but provides limited fiat options.
Bitstamp, while easy to navigate, focuses more on security and less on advanced trading features.
Advanced Trading Features
If you’re an experienced trader, advanced features like futures, margin trading, and options can be crucial.
Exchanges like OKX offer futures, margin trading, options, and even an integrated NFT marketplace. UEEx strikes a balance by offering advanced tools while maintaining ease of use. The platform also offers stocks investment, which helps traders diversify.
Binance also provides extensive advanced tools, including futures and a variety of order types. Bybit is ideal for those seeking high-leverage options, with leverage up to 100x. In contrast, Rain and BitOasis focus on basic trading, lacking sophisticated features.
Local and Regional Considerations
Regional support, language options, and Shariah compliance can be deciding factors for users in Saudi Arabia.
Rain and BitOasis excel in providing Arabic language support and operating under local regulations. Bybit caters to Muslim traders by offering an Islamic Account with Shariah-compliant trading products. UEEx, while offering excellent privacy, customer support and security, lacks specific regional support for fiat transactions.
Binance and OKX provide access to global markets but lack localized support for Saudi users. Bitstamp offers strong compliance measures but focuses primarily on international regulations rather than Middle Eastern preferences.
Are Crypto Exchanges Legal in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, crypto exchanges are allowed in Saudi Arabia, but they are not fully regulated by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA). While it is legal to trade cryptocurrencies, they are not considered official legal tender.
The Saudi government warns users about the risks of crypto trading but allows licensed international exchanges, like UEEx, Rain (regulated by the Central Bank of Bahrain), to operate. It’s important to choose a secure and reliable exchange and stay updated on local laws.
How to Trade on UEEx in Saudi Arabia
Trading on UEEx is easy if you follow these steps:
1. Create an Account
Go to the UEEx website and click Sign Up. Then:
- Enter your email address or phone number (include your country code).
- Set a strong, unique password.
- If you have an invitation code, enter it to receive potential rewards.
- Check your email or phone for a verification code. Enter it to activate your account.
2. Add Funds
After setting up your account, you need to deposit money to start trading:
- Click your profile icon and select Asset Management.
- Choose to deposit either your local currency (fiat) or cryptocurrency.
- Find the asset you want to deposit and click Recharge.
- Click View Address to see the deposit address.
Important: Ensure the crypto network you use matches the sender’s network to avoid mistakes. Deposit times vary based on the method: crypto depends on blockchain confirmations, and fiat depends on bank processing times.
3. Buy Cryptocurrency
Once your account is funded, you can begin trading:
- Click Trade Now on the homepage.
- Search for the cryptocurrency you want to buy or sell.
- Choose your order type:
- Market Order: Buys or sells immediately at the current price.
- Limit Order: Lets you set a specific price to buy or sell.
- Enter the amount you want to trade.
- Check all the details, then click Buy or Sell to confirm.
4. Withdraw or Secure Your Funds
For added safety, consider moving your cryptocurrency to a personal wallet.
- Hardware wallets (e.g., Ledger, Trezor) store your crypto offline and offer the most security.
- Software wallets (e.g., MetaMask, Trust Wallet) let you manage your crypto online.
To withdraw funds from UEEx:
- Click your profile icon and select Asset Management.
- Choose to withdraw either fiat money or cryptocurrency.
- Pick the asset you want to withdraw and click Withdraw.
- Enter the receiving wallet address and the withdrawal amount.
- Verify the network is correct before confirming.
Using a personal wallet gives you greater control and security over your assets.
Conclusion
Choosing the best crypto exchanges in Saudi Arabia can make or break your trading experience. Whether you prioritize low fees, advanced features, or local currency support, there’s a platform for everyone.
UEEx stands out for its low fees and privacy, Rain shines with its regulatory compliance and SAR support, while Binance and OKX offer advanced trading tools for serious investors.
Always consider security, fees, and ease of use before committing. With the right exchange, you can trade confidently and securely in the fast-growing Saudi crypto market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use crypto exchanges in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, as long as you choose reputable platforms with strong security features like UEEx, Binance, or Rain, which offer encryption and cold storage for user funds.
Can I trade in Saudi Riyals (SAR) on crypto exchanges?
Yes, platforms like Rain support transactions in SAR, making it easier for Saudi users to deposit and withdraw funds.
Which crypto exchange has the lowest fees in Saudi Arabia?
UEEx offers some of the lowest fees, especially for UECoin holders.
