Wealth management trends for individuals moving to the United Arab Emirates

Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

Wealth management trends for individuals moving to the United Arab Emirates

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Written by Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

Wealth management trends for individuals moving to the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a burgeoning hub for wealth management, driven by an influx of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) relocating to the region. In 2021, the UAE’s population of HNWIs grew by 5.3%, reaching approximately 68,000 individuals, according to the Knight Frank Wealth Report. Moreover, the UAE is expected to attract more than 5,000 new millionaires per year over the next five years, significantly increasing the demand for tailored wealth management services. This report outlines the top trends and key players in wealth management specifically tailored for individuals moving to the UAE.

1. HSBC Private Banking

HSBC Private Banking is among the leading wealth management firms in the UAE, managing over $200 billion in assets globally. The bank has established a robust presence in the region, offering comprehensive financial planning services tailored to expatriates.

2. UBS Wealth Management

With a market share of approximately 6% in the UAE wealth management sector, UBS provides personalized investment strategies and estate planning services. The bank manages around $3 trillion in total client assets globally.

3. Credit Suisse

Credit Suisse has a significant foothold in the UAE, serving over 30,000 affluent clients. The bank focuses on sustainable investing, with a goal to increase its sustainable assets under management to $300 billion by 2025.

4. Julius Baer

Julius Baer’s wealth management services are tailored to HNWIs, with the firm managing over $100 billion in assets in the Middle East. The bank emphasizes providing bespoke investment solutions and estate planning services.

5. Standard Chartered Private Bank

Standard Chartered caters to expatriates and HNWIs in the UAE with a focus on wealth preservation and growth. The bank has seen a 15% increase in its client base in the region over the past year.

6. Morgan Stanley Wealth Management

Morgan Stanley manages approximately $4 trillion in assets globally and has recently focused on expanding its services in the UAE. Their offerings include investment advisory and retirement planning tailored to expatriates.

7. Citibank Private Client Group

Citibank has a strong presence in the UAE, managing over $100 billion in private client assets. The bank’s wealth management services include tailored credit solutions and investment management strategies.

8. BNP Paribas Wealth Management

BNP Paribas is a key player in the UAE, managing around $400 billion globally in wealth management. The firm focuses on responsible investing, aligning with the growing trend among HNWIs for sustainable portfolios.

9. Emirates NBD Private Banking

As one of the leading banks in the UAE, Emirates NBD offers wealth management services that cater to local and expatriate clients alike. The bank has reported a 20% growth in its private banking segment in the past year.

10. Family Office Exchange (FOX)

FOX provides services to family offices and HNWIs in the UAE, focusing on investment strategies and governance. The firm has seen a significant rise in demand for family office services, reflecting a trend toward generational wealth transfer.

11. Falcon Private Bank

Falcon Private Bank specializes in wealth management for ultra-high-net-worth individuals and has a strong presence in the UAE. The bank manages over $15 billion in assets and emphasizes personalized service.

12. Pictet Wealth Management

Pictet has been expanding its wealth management services in the UAE, with a focus on private equity and real estate investments. The firm manages over $600 billion globally and has a dedicated team for the Middle East.

13. ZURICH Private Banking

Zurich Private Banking is known for its tailored wealth management solutions, with a focus on risk management and insurance products. The firm has reported a 10% increase in its clientele in the UAE.

14. Rothschild & Co

Rothschild & Co offers financial advisory and asset management services in the UAE, with a strong emphasis on generational wealth transfer. The firm manages around $300 billion in assets worldwide.

15. Lombard Odier Private Bank

Lombard Odier has been increasing its investment in the UAE market, managing over $300 billion in client assets globally. The bank focuses on sustainable investments and personalized portfolio management.

16. Coutts

Coutts specializes in wealth management for the ultra-rich and has expanded its services to the UAE. The bank manages over $60 billion in client assets and is known for its bespoke service offerings.

17. Deutsche Bank Wealth Management

Deutsche Bank has a presence in the UAE’s wealth management market and manages approximately $1.3 trillion in client assets globally. The bank focuses on investment banking and asset management for HNWIs.

18. Wells Fargo Private Bank

Wells Fargo has recently expanded its wealth management services in the UAE, focusing on investment management and financial planning. The bank manages over $2 trillion in assets across its wealth management division.

19. Northern Trust

Northern Trust provides wealth management and asset servicing solutions in the UAE, emphasizing trust and estate services. The firm manages approximately $1.4 trillion in assets globally.

20. Arab Bank

Arab Bank offers a range of wealth management services tailored to HNWIs in the region. The bank has reported a 12% increase in its wealth management segment and manages billions in client assets.

Insights

The wealth management landscape in the UAE is rapidly evolving, driven by an influx of high-net-worth individuals and changing client preferences. A significant trend is the growing demand for personalized and sustainable investment strategies, reflecting a broader global shift towards responsible investing. According to the Global Wealth Report 2023, the number of millionaires in the UAE is projected to grow by 20% over the next five years, indicating a continued expansion of the wealth management market. Firms that can adapt to these trends and offer tailored, innovative solutions are likely to gain a competitive edge in this dynamic environment.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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