Family office licence in the UAE

Single-family and multi-family office structures. DIFC and ADGM both operate purpose-built regimes with foundations, prescribed companies and SPVs designed for succession and wealth structuring. This is the highest-value segment in UAE formation and the one where competent advice actually matters.

What to know first

Managing third-party assets is a regulated activity requiring DFSA or FSRA authorisation.
Foundations and trusts have distinct succession and reporting consequences in the family's home jurisdiction.
Cross-border reporting under CRS applies regardless of UAE residence.

Suitable free zones

DIFC

Dubai

An English common-law jurisdiction inside Dubai, for regulated finance and family offices.

From: AED 73,450
Setup: 20–90 d
Max visas: ∞

ADGM

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi's common-law financial centre — the serious rival to DIFC.

From: AED 21,300
Setup: 20–90 d
Max visas: ∞

DMCC

Dubai

The prestige address. Expensive, demanding, and the one that makes banking straightforward.

From: AED 34,000
Setup: 5–15 d
Max visas: ∞

Let's talk about your actual case

A twenty-minute call. We will also tell you if the UAE is the wrong answer for you — it often is.

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