Insights

The UAE has cemented its position as a premier global fund domiciliation hub in 2025. The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) now hosts 440 wealth and asset management firms, including 85 hedge funds, whilst the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) houses 134 asset and fund managers overseeing 166 funds, with AUM surging 245% in 2024. Key regulatory developments, including value added tax (VAT) exemptions for fund management and mandatory environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting, continue to enhance the UAE's competitive positioning.

27.11.2025

The United Arab Emirates is increasingly being seen as one of the world’s most progressive jurisdictions for virtual asset transactions with an exclusive legal framework for today’s leading digital assets - blockchain and crypto. This guide provides information on the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), along with other regulatory frameworks, and highlights key features for companies operating in this rapidly evolving sector.

18.11.2025

The global fund management landscape is experiencing a paradigm shift. While the Cayman Islands has dominated offshore fund domiciliation for over five decades, the United Arab Emirates—through its Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)—is emerging as a compelling alternative that combines traditional tax efficiency with strategic regional advantages.

21.10.2025

Explore UAE investment funds, and corporate structures, as well as business outlook in the Middle East, in this interview with Nick Davies, Managing Partner of SBL International. Nick shares practical insights on setting up and scaling fund platforms in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and beyond, highlighting their unique features as well as the business opportunities in these jurisdictions, other UAE free zones, and the mainland offer to GPs, investors, and entrepreneurs.

09.06.2025