Julius Baer announces its expansion into Abu Dhabi with the establishment of an Advisory Office that is based in ADGM, currently being subject to final regulatory approvals. The new legal entity, Julius Baer (Abu Dhabi) Ltd., will aim to cater to ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), family offices, and entrepreneurs seeking wealth management services. The new office is now reportedly expected “to open in December 2025.”
Julius Baer (Abu Dhabi) Ltd. will now reportedly be led by Amir Iskander, who joins as Chief Executive Officer of the entity. Amir brings experience and regional insights from his leadership roles “at Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Union National Bank, and Citigroup, advising UHNWIs across the MENA region with a strong focus on Abu Dhabi.”
In his new role, Amir will report to Régis Burger.
Stefan Bollinger, Chief Executive Officer of Julius Baer Group Ltd., said that the Middle East is one of the most important growth markets for Julius Baer and plays a central role in their global strategy.
Bollinger added that two decades ago, they saw the region’s potential and built a local presence that allowed them to grow alongside their clients.
They also mentioned that their expansion into Abu Dhabi is therefore not just another milestone but “a reaffirmation of their long-term commitment to this dynamic region and to serving clients.”
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, said that they are pleased to welcome Julius Baer, one of the world’s leading wealth management groups, to ADGM.
They added that their decision to establish an office in their international financial centre is a “vote of confidence in Abu Dhabi’s rise as a global financial nexus for wealth and asset management.”
With their progressive regulatory framework, deep pools of capital, and “a growing community of family offices, sovereign investors, and global financial institutions,” ADGM is positioned to support Julius Baer “as it serves ultra-high-net-worth individuals, and family offices.”
Their presence with its Swiss legacy and reputation in wealth management, combined with an understanding of the region and the UAE, is a testament to ADGM’s appeal as the “destination of choice for international wealth managers looking to serve clients from Abu Dhabi.”
Rahul Malhotra, Head Region Emerging Markets, Julius Baer, said that Abu Dhabi is emerging as one of the world’s wealth hubs, where the tradition of family businesses meets “a new generation of entrepreneurs.”
Establishing ourselves in ADGM is said to be the next step in Julius Baer’s journey of growth in the UAE.
Julius Baer has reportedly maintained a presence in the Middle East since 2004, with offices in Dubai and Manama complemented by coverage from hubs including Switzerland and the United Kingdom.