Emirates NBD & DIFC Partner to Strengthen Family Wealth

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Emirates NBD have confirmed a strategic partnership to enhance governance, succession planning, and long-term wealth preservation for family businesses and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs). Emirates NBD DIFC partnership will be implemented through the DIFC Family Wealth Centre.

The entities recognized the critical need for specialized support to preserve and safeguard legacies across generations. So, they came together in an agreement that aligned with their mutual objectives while underscoring a shared commitment to foster a robust ecosystem for family enterprises.

Dubai Guarantees Safeguarding Legacies Across Generations

This esteemed partnership aims to support business continuity and wealth preservation in the UAE. In addition, it reinforces DIFC’s role as a leading global hub for family wealth and boosts Emirates NBD’s position as a trusted banking partner. Together, they are set to introduce robust governance models and tailored resources such as workshops and Next Generation programs.

Under the partnership, the two entities, Emirates NBD Private Banking and DIFC Family Wealth Centre, will work alongside each other to deliver customized governance frameworks, tax structures, and education programs tailored to the needs of family-owned businesses, further cementing Dubai’s position as a global hub for family enterprise.

Emirates NBD will utilize DIFC’s infrastructure to roll out specialized workshops, educational programs, and resources focused on areas such as family governance and family office management. Both organizations say the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the family enterprise ecosystem.

Family Businesses Have a Strong Presence in Dubai

Presently, DIFC remains the only financial center in the region recognized globally for its depth and capability, according to the Global Financial Centres Index. More than 1,250 family-related entities currently operate within the center, including major private-client institutions. The largest 120 families based in DIFC manage over USD 1.2 trillion in assets worldwide.

Across the UAE, family businesses account for roughly 60% of GDP and employ 80% of the workforce. His Excellency Arif Amiri, CEO 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.”

Similarly, Mohammad Al Bastaki, Group Head of Private Banking and Wealth Management, said: “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."

Ultimately, the initiative aims to add value to Emirates NBD Private Banking clients while supporting DIFC’s role as a leader in advisory services for family wealth.

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