This guide summarises what is publicly known about iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets UCITS (EMIM) and lists brokers in our reference data that accept residents of United Arab Emirates. Always verify the latest details on the issuer's fund page and on the broker's own website.
EMIM at a glance
| Full name | iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets UCITS |
| Ticker | EMIM |
| ISIN | IE00BKM4GZ66 |
| Issuer | BlackRock |
| TER | 0.18% |
| Domicile | IE |
| Exchange | LSE Xetra |
| Distribution | Accumulating |
About EMIM
EMIM (iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets IMI UCITS ETF) is a UCITS-compliant, Ireland-domiciled ETF managed by BlackRock that tracks the MSCI Emerging Markets Investable Market Index, providing exposure to large, mid, and small-cap equities across emerging market countries. It is listed on multiple exchanges including the London Stock Exchange and Euronext Amsterdam.
The general process
- Choose a broker that accepts residents of United Arab Emirates and lists EMIM on LSE Xetra. The reference table below lists candidates from our dataset.
- Open and verify an account. Brokers typically ask for a government-issued ID, proof of address, and sometimes a bank statement. Exact document requirements and timelines vary - follow the broker's own instructions.
- Fund the account using a method the broker supports. Available currencies and methods vary - check the broker's funding page.
- Find EMIM on the broker's platform and confirm the correct exchange listing before trading.
- Place your order. Order types and behaviour vary by venue. Read the broker's order-entry help before placing real trades.
This is general information, not investment advice. Investing involves risk including loss of capital.
Brokers in our reference data that list residents of United Arab Emirates
Listed alphabetically. Confirm current eligibility, supported products, and fees on each broker's own website.
| Broker | Regulator | Min. deposit | Fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interactive Brokers | SEC FINRA FCA | None published | Low commissions tiered or fixed | Visit |
| Saxo Bank | DFSA FCA | None published | Mid-range with strong platform | Visit |
| Sarwa | DFSA | 5 USD | 0.50 to 0.85 percent AUM | Visit |
| StashAway | DFSA | None published | 0.20 to 0.80 percent AUM | Visit |
| Trading 212 | FCA CySEC FSC | 1 USD | Zero commission stocks and ETFs | Visit |
| eToro | FCA CySEC ASIC | 50 USD | Spreads no commission | Visit |
| Wio Invest | SCA | None published | Free trades on UAE stocks | Visit |
| IG | FCA | None published | Spread based CFDs and shares | Visit |
| Swissquote | FINMA DFSA | 1000 USD | Premium pricing global access | Visit |
| Lightyear | FCA EFSA | 1 USD | Low commission EU domiciled ETFs | Visit |
| Pepperstone | FCA ASIC CySEC | None published | Tight forex and CFD spreads | Visit |
| Tickmill | FCA CySEC | 100 USD | Low spreads with commissions | Visit |
Tax notes for United Arab Emirates residents
The UAE levies no personal income tax on individuals, so UAE-resident expats do not pay local tax on capital gains or dividends received from ETF holdings. EMIM is domiciled in Ireland, and Ireland has tax treaties with many countries that affect withholding tax at the fund level on dividends from underlying holdings. UAE residents do not file a personal tax return with a UAE authority in relation to investment income. Investors who hold citizenship or tax residency in other countries should verify their obligations with a qualified tax adviser in those jurisdictions.
General information only. Tax rules change. Consult a qualified tax adviser licensed in your jurisdiction.
Frequently asked questions
- Can UAE residents legally buy EMIM?
- Yes. There is no UAE regulation that prohibits individuals resident in the UAE from purchasing EMIM through an internationally licensed broker that accepts UAE-resident clients. You should confirm that your chosen broker is authorised to onboard UAE residents and that it provides access to the exchange on which you intend to buy EMIM.
- Which exchanges list EMIM?
- EMIM is listed on the London Stock Exchange (ticker: EMIM in GBP and EMIM in USD), Euronext Amsterdam, and other European exchanges. Check the BlackRock iShares product page for the current full list of listings and available currency hedges.
- What currency options are available for EMIM?
- EMIM is available in GBP, USD, and EUR share classes across different listings. The underlying fund is denominated in USD. See the official BlackRock iShares website for the current share class and currency listing details.
- Do I need a DFSA-regulated broker to buy EMIM from the UAE?
- Not necessarily. UAE residents can use brokers regulated outside the UAE, such as those regulated in the UK by the FCA or in other recognised jurisdictions, provided those brokers accept UAE-resident clients. The DFSA regulates firms operating within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). If you use a DFSA-regulated firm, it will be subject to DFSA conduct rules. Whichever broker you choose, verify its regulatory status on the relevant regulator's official register.
- Are there any UAE restrictions on sending money abroad to fund a brokerage account?
- The UAE does not impose general foreign exchange controls on individuals, and residents can typically transfer funds internationally through licensed banks and exchange houses. Individual banks may have their own procedures and documentation requirements. Confirm the process directly with your bank before initiating a transfer.
- Is EMIM accumulating or distributing?
- BlackRock offers both accumulating and distributing share classes of EMIM. An accumulating share class reinvests dividends automatically within the fund, while a distributing share class pays dividends to shareholders. Check the specific ISIN you are purchasing on the BlackRock iShares website to confirm which class applies.
- What ongoing charge does EMIM carry?
- The ongoing charge figure (OCF) for EMIM is published on the BlackRock iShares official product page and in the fund's Key Investor Information Document (KIID) or Key Information Document (KID). Do not rely on third-party figures; check the official source for the current rate as fees can change.
- How do I buy EMIM step by step from the UAE?
- 1. Select an internationally licensed broker that accepts UAE-resident clients and offers access to the exchange listing EMIM. 2. Complete the broker's account opening process, providing identity documents and proof of UAE residence as required. 3. Fund your brokerage account by transferring funds from your UAE bank account in the required currency. 4. Search for EMIM using the fund's ISIN or ticker on your broker's platform, and confirm you are viewing the correct share class and listing. 5. Place your order, review the transaction details including any brokerage fees, and confirm. 6. Retain transaction confirmations for your records.
- Does the UAE have a financial regulator that oversees retail investment products sold locally?
- Yes. The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) regulates securities and investment products in the UAE onshore. The DFSA regulates financial services within the DIFC. If you are using a locally licensed adviser or broker, check their authorisation on the SCA or DFSA register as appropriate.
Official sources
For regulatory information and official ETF documentation, see: Central Bank of Ireland - UCITS regulation.