St. James’s Place expands financial advisory services in the UAE

St. James’s Place (SJP), a FTSE-listed global advisory giant with over one million customers and $245 billion in assets under management, is marking two years since it has set out to reshape financial advice in the Middle East. The firm, headquartered in the UK, has an enormous influence on the financial advice landscape and is bringing its long-term advice approach to Dubai.

Dubai’s financial sector has been evolving with a strong regulatory framework overseen by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). Being based in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the firm has made significant progress in the region, doubling the number of accredited partners in the Middle East to 41 and steadily building a loyal customers base, as professionals move to the Middle East amid surging economic growth.

Raising the bar

SJP saw an opportunity to raise standards and bring top-tier advice to Dubai and the GCC.

The strong regulatory framework of the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) has enabled SJP Middle East to build a business reflective of the high standards in the UK market, offering personalised advice with a long-term approach to local clients, through specialists in cross-border financial planning.

“From the UK to Asia and now the Middle East, we’re known for our client-centric approach through personalised advice and investment management,” says Daniel George, Head of Business of SJP Middle East, who moved over from the UK.

SJP Middle East received approval from the DFSA in May 2023 and has set out to deliver advice tailored to individual needs. The firm is known for guiding clients through each life stage with tailored and personalised advice, whether in investment planning, retirement planning, estate planning, or tax advisory. From optimising tax positions for internationally mobile individuals to securing long-term financial stability through retirement and estate planning, SJP helps clients build and protect wealth. Their services also extend to investment solutions designed for future growth, including planning for children's financial futures.

Soaring growth drives demand for advice

SJP’s entrance to the GCC market comes amid soaring demand for financial advice, with more people flocking to the region. SJP works with a broad range of clients, yet Dubai has recently seen an influx of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), heightening the need for specialist advisers. According to a 2024 report, more than 800 HNWs moved to Dubai from the UK last year alone.

“As the region keeps growing, we aim to leave a legacy for the people here and transform financial advice in the GCC,” George added.

These factors have fuelled the firm’s growth in the Middle East, with all signs pointing to an upward trajectory in the coming years as the GCC becomes a major economic centre. The generational wealth transfer set to take place in the region will drive the need for quality advisers who can serve complex needs. 

To learn more about St. James’s Place services, please visit https://www.sjp.asia/ae