Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has entered a strategic partnership with Emirates NBD to empower family businesses and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) within the DIFC Family Wealth Centre.
The collaboration aims to address the evolving needs of wealthy families by providing tailored frameworks, robust governance models, tax structuring, and succession planning. This is designed to ensure long-term sustainability and legacy preservation for these enterprises.
Family businesses are a cornerstone of the UAE’s economy, contributing around 60 per cent of GDP and employing 80 per cent of the national workforce. DIFC currently houses more than 1,250 family-related entities, with the top 120 families based in the Centre managing over $1.2trillion in assets globally.
A comprehensive framework for wealth preservation
Under the agreement, Emirates NBD Private Banking will leverage DIFC’s infrastructure to offer a comprehensive approach to wealth management. This includes providing bespoke educational programmes, workshops, and resources focused on best practices in family governance and family office structures.
The partnership will also give clients direct access to tailored products from Emirates NBD Private Banking, including its ‘Next Generation’ programmes, which are designed to prepare future leaders for succession.
His Excellency Arif Amiri, chief executive officer of DIFC Authority, said: “Family businesses from around the world choose Dubai and DIFC as a trusted platform to grow, innovate, and plan for the future. As a global hub for family enterprise, Dubai offers a progressive environment and DIFC provides world-class structures and advisory access that enable families to safeguard wealth and build enduring legacies. Our collaboration with Emirates NBD reinforces DIFC’s commitment to enabling sustainable family wealth strategies through robust governance and succession planning frameworks.”
Navigating complexity for future generations
The initiative recognises the unique complexities faced by family enterprises, particularly in the areas of succession and governance. By combining DIFC’s regulatory environment with Emirates NBD’s banking expertise, the partnership aims to create a robust ecosystem that supports business continuity and the preservation of family values.
Mohammad Al Bastaki, group head of private banking and wealth management at Emirates NBD, commented: “Emirates NBD Private Banking is proud to join forces with DIFC. The agreement marks a significant milestone in our commitment to our private banking clients. We understand the unique complexities and aspirations of family businesses, and by collaborating with DIFC, we are providing a holistic platform to family-owned enterprises that offers unparalleled expertise in governance, succession, and wealth preservation. This alliance underscores our dedication to empowering our clients to navigate the future with confidence, ensuring their legacies endure and thrive across generations.”