Robinhood Markets Inc. (NASDAQ: HOOD), the U.S.-based neobroker behind the popular trading app, has applied for a Category 4 license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). Once approved, the license will allow Robinhood to onboard clients in the UAE and across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), operating out of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
As part of this move, Robinhood appointed Mario Camara as Senior Executive Officer for MENA operations. Camara brings over a decade of leadership experience in FX and CFDs markets, including senior roles at Equiti Group and Saxo Bank.
This expansion reflects Robinhood’s global growth ambitions. While much of its focus has recently been on the UK, Europe, and Asia—where it set up a regional base in Singapore—its Dubai entry signals confidence in the region’s demand for transparent, digital-first investment solutions.
The DIFC presence will also enable Robinhood to engage with regulators and investors in one of the fastest-growing financial hubs globally. A full regional strategy announcement is expected in the coming weeks.
With over 24 million gamers and a young, tech-savvy population across MENA turning to digital finance, Robinhood aims to democratize access to investments, making trading more accessible and innovative.
