The United Arab Emirates is rapidly emerging as a prime destination for alternative asset managers. 

Over the past year alone, a significant number have chosen to register in one or both of UAE’s financial hubs, Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The trend is particularly pronounced among UK based and Asia Pacific firms.

The region’s appeal is strengthened by a strategic charm offensive, leveraging the recessionary conditions in the UK and US as well as geopolitical challenges in parts of the Asia Pacific region. 

The UAE leadership is making a concerted effort to attract top-tier businesses globally, offering incentives such as an attractive tax regime, long-term resident visas and a proactive government stance towards business development and prosperity.  Consequently, there is a notable migration of fintech, crypto and alternative asset firms to the UAE.

Amid this surge in interest, we are delighted to present this primer. Topics covered include the necessary steps for setting up a financial services firm in the UAE, establishing a separate entity within the country, as well as the regulatory considerations and business restrictions in the UAE financial free zones. 

Please note the contents of this primer constitute general information only and are not intended and should not be relied as legal advice. Due to the dynamic nature of this field, the meaning of key concepts may evolve over time. 
 

For further information on AIMA's work in the UAE or to learn about AIMA's UAE fund manager network, please contact Tom Kehoe, AIMA Managing Director, Global Head of Research and Communications.