For high-net-worth individuals and their families, managing significant wealth involves complexities that go far beyond simple investment advice. A Family Office is the ultimate solution, a private firm that centralises the management of a family’s financial and personal affairs, ensuring wealth preservation, growth, and a seamless transition between generations.
Single-Family Office (SFO) vs. Multi-Family Office (MFO)
- Single-Family Office: An SFO is a private company that serves one single, ultra-high-net-worth family. It provides dedicated, bespoke services tailored exclusively to that family’s needs, offering the highest level of control and privacy.
- Multi-Family Office: An MFO provides family office services to multiple families. This structure offers a more cost-effective solution, allowing families to access a high level of expertise and institutional-grade investment opportunities without the overhead of establishing a standalone SFO.
Core Services of a Family Office
A fully-fledged family office acts as the family’s personal CFO, offering a wide spectrum of services:
- Investment Management: Developing and executing a global investment strategy across all asset classes.
- Wealth & Succession Planning: Structuring trusts, foundations, and wills to ensure a smooth transfer of wealth.
- Administrative & Lifestyle Services: Managing properties, jets, art collections, and handling bill payments and reporting.
- Philanthropic Advisory: Helping the family establish and manage charitable foundations and giving strategies.
- Tax & Legal Coordination: Working with external advisors to optimize the family's tax position and manage legal affairs.
The UAE: A Premier Hub for Family Offices
The UAE, particularly through the DIFC, and ADGM and few other zones, has become a leading destination for establishing Family Offices. Both jurisdictions offer specific regulations designed to attract and support them, providing a stable, tax-efficient, and globally-connected environment.
How We Support Your Family Office
Whether you are establishing a new SFO or looking to join an MFO, the structuring and regulatory process is critical. Our consultancy provides discreet and comprehensive support, including:
- Advising on the optimal structure and jurisdiction (DIFC or ADGM).
- Managing the entire licensing and registration process.
- Assisting with the operational setup, from finding office space to recruiting key personnel.
Preserve and grow your family’s legacy with a professionally managed structure. Contact our Family Office advisors for a confidential discussion.