SKN | Julius Baer Set for Next Phase of Growth in Abu Dhabi

Julius Baer has secured final regulatory approval to expand its Middle Eastern footprint, marking a significant milestone for the Swiss wealth manager. The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) has authorised the firm to open a new advisory office within the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), reinforcing the bank’s long-term strategy of serving global ultra-high-net-worth clients in fast-growing markets.

The new entity, Julius Baer (Abu Dhabi) Ltd, will begin operations in December 2025—offering bespoke wealth management solutions to UHNW families, entrepreneurs, and sophisticated investors across the region.

A Strategic Expansion Into a Global Financial Hub

Abu Dhabi has rapidly evolved into one of the world’s leading centres for finance, investment, and digital innovation. For Julius Baer, the city’s growing ecosystem of sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and fintech platforms presents an ideal environment to deepen client relationships and expand advisory capabilities.

CEO Stefan Bollinger, speaking at Abu Dhabi Finance Week, said the final approval underscores the bank’s commitment to the region. He described the new office as a natural next step in strengthening Julius Baer’s presence in a market that has shown exceptional growth over the past decade.

This expansion builds on the firm’s long-standing position in the Middle East, which began over 20 years ago with the first-ever banking licence issued at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The Abu Dhabi office reinforces Julius Baer’s strategy of aligning its advisory model with the global movement of wealth across borders.

Serving a New Generation of Wealth Holders

As wealth transfers accelerate globally, private banks must adapt to evolving client expectations. Bollinger highlighted that younger generations of UHNW clients exhibit markedly different behaviours—prioritising digital banking, lifestyle flexibility, investment autonomy, and sustainability.

According to Bollinger, disruptive technologies such as AI and automation represent a competitive advantage for wealth managers who embrace them. Automated administrative processes, digital onboarding, and AI-supported investment insights all contribute to a more efficient client experience.

He also emphasised that the rise of web3 and crypto-literate investors opens new opportunities for Julius Baer to integrate digital assets into long-term wealth strategies—particularly in the UAE, where adoption is accelerating.

Leadership and the Road Ahead

The new Abu Dhabi office will be led by Amir Iskander, a seasoned private banking executive with extensive experience serving wealthy clients in the Gulf region. His appointment signals Julius Baer’s intention to offer high-touch, locally informed advisory services while leveraging the firm’s global investment expertise.

The Middle East remains one of Julius Baer’s strongest growth regions, with the bank reaffirming its commitment to supporting both established and emerging wealth across the UAE. The Abu Dhabi expansion strengthens the firm’s position at a time when global investors are seeking stability, diversification, and long-term strategies amid shifting interest rates, geopolitical uncertainty, and rapid technological change.

Closing Insight

Julius Baer’s new presence in Abu Dhabi reflects a broader trend: global wealth is growing more mobile, younger, and more digitally connected. As private banks compete for relevance in this evolving landscape, those that combine personal advisory expertise with technological capability will be best positioned to capture future growth. For investors, the UAE’s ascent as a financial hub presents fresh opportunities for diversification, innovation, and cross-border wealth planning.

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