TME Services

Swiss and DACH Family Offices Are Relocating to Dubai

Author: Uwe Hohmann
Managing Partner, Commercial- & Tax Consultant

Family offices from Switzerland and the broader DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) are increasingly choosing Dubai as their preferred location for managing international operations and investments. The latest Financial Times article highlights this growing trend, noting how Swiss family offices are actively relocating to the UAE in search of regulatory certainty and global access. This shift is driven by regulatory certainty, tax efficiency, and the ease of setting up structures that align with succession planning and cross-border asset management.

A Rising Trend Among Swiss and German Wealth Managers

Recent movements in the private wealth sector show a steady relocation of Swiss-based family offices to Dubai. While Switzerland remains a stronghold of financial management, family offices are seeking more flexible jurisdictions in light of increasing global tax transparency and tighter EU regulations.

Dubai offers a strong alternative. It provides a business-friendly regulatory environment, long-term residence options, and no personal income tax. For German-speaking family offices used to operating in stable jurisdictions like Zurich or Liechtenstein, Dubai now presents a viable, fully regulated environment for long-term planning.

Why Dubai Appeals to the DACH Market

Several core factors are driving interest from German, Austrian, and Swiss clients:

  1. Tax advantages: The UAE does not impose personal income tax, and corporate income tax is at competitive rates.
  2. Residency flexibility: Possibility of obtaining a 10-year Golden Visa.
  3. Wealth structuring: Dubai’s legal framework supports holding companies, trusts, and foundations, with access to international banking.
  4. Geographic and cultural accessibility: The Emirate offers flight connections to Europe and German-speaking advisors across key service sectors.
TME Services Support for DACH-Based Clients

With over 20 years of experience in the UAE market and a German-speaking team, TME Services is well-equipped to support companies from the DACH region – Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. We assist DACH-based businesses and entrepreneurs with company formation in Dubai, residency and visa arrangements, accounting, and tax compliance. Our close collaboration with banks, auditors, and advisors familiar with European standards ensures that our clients receive seamless, reliable support tailored to their specific needs.

Comprehensive UAE Business Solutions

Our comprehensive services are designed to support you every step of your business journey in the UAE:

  1. Company Formation: We guide you through all aspects of setting up your company, whether in a free zone or on the mainland, ensuring you choose the best option for your business.
  2. Visa and Emirates ID Services: We streamline the process of securing visas and Emirates IDs for you and your employees, allowing you to focus on your business operations.
  3. Accounting: Our team ensures your business stays compliant with local financial regulations, which is crucial for maintaining good standing in Dubai’s business community.
  4. Tax: We help manage Dubai’s tax environment, ensuring your business remains compliant while optimizing your tax position.
  5. Business Consulting: Leveraging our deep understanding of Dubai’s market, we provide valuable insights and help you develop effective strategies to succeed.

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