DIFC has entered into a strategic alliance with Emirates NBD to enhance governance, succession planning and long-term wealth preservation for family enterprises and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. The partnership will be executed through the DIFC Family Wealth Centre, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for family-owned businesses.
Under the agreement, Emirates NBD Private Banking will collaborate with the DIFC Family Wealth Centre to address the evolving requirements of UHNWIs and their family businesses. The partnership includes the development of tailored governance frameworks, tax planning and succession structures that support continuity and legacy protection. Emirates NBD will also use DIFC’s advanced infrastructure to provide bespoke educational programmes, workshops and resources related to family governance, succession strategies and family office models. The collaboration aligns the strategic goals of both organisations and enhances the value offered to Emirates NBD Private Banking clients and DFWC members.
More than 1,250 family-related entities, including international private-client institutions, currently operate within DIFC. The top 120 families at the Centre collectively oversee more than US$1.2 trillion in global assets. Across the UAE, family businesses contribute around 60 per cent of national GDP and employ approximately 80 per cent of the workforce.
Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, said: “Family enterprises worldwide choose Dubai and DIFC as trusted platforms for growth, innovation and long-term planning. Dubai offers a progressive environment for family business, while DIFC provides world-class structures and advisory services that support wealth preservation and legacy building. Our partnership with Emirates NBD strengthens DIFC’s commitment to enabling sustainable wealth strategies through strong governance and succession frameworks.”
Mohammad Al Bastaki, Group Head of Private Banking and Wealth Management, said: “Emirates NBD Private Banking is pleased to work alongside DIFC. This agreement marks a significant step in our dedication to private banking clients. We understand the distinct challenges faced by family-owned enterprises, and through this collaboration, we offer an integrated platform delivering expertise in governance, succession and wealth preservation. The partnership reinforces our mission to empower clients to prepare for the future and ensure their legacies continue to thrive.”
DIFC provides a comprehensive range of frameworks to support family businesses and UHNWIs, including succession planning, wealth preservation, asset protection, governance and cross-border investment structures such as holding companies, family offices and foundations. Through the partnership, clients will also gain access to specialised services from Emirates NBD Private Banking, including family governance and succession-planning solutions such as Next Generation programmes. These initiatives help enterprises prepare for the future, maintain continuity and preserve family values across generations.
