Why Wealth Managers Are Moving to Dubai: What It Means for You

We all think about the future, but how many of us feel confident about our retirement savings? In the UAE, that question is becoming more urgent. A new report shows that more people in the UAE, especially experienced employees and professionals, are asking for better, more personalised retirement planning. They don’t just want end-of-service benefits. They want flexibility, investment choices, and long-term financial security. This shift is important. It’s not just about pensions . It’s about how people feel about their jobs, their financial freedom, and their lives after work. What the Report Found The research, carried out by recruitment experts in the UAE, found that: Many mid-to-senior-level professionals now want a tailored approach to retirement savings. People are asking employers for more investment options, not just a lump sum at the end. There is a growing interest in structured retirement accounts, including schemes where employers contribute monthly, like pensions in the UK or US. It’s a signal that the typical end-of-service benefit (gratuity) may no longer be enough for the modern workforce. The Current Retirement Model in the UAE Right now, most private sector workers in the UAE receive an End-of-Service Benefit (EOSB). This is a lump sum based on how long you've worked for your employer and your final salary. But: It’s not invested, so the value doesn’t grow with time. You only receive it when you leave the company. If a company closes down or faces financial trouble, you may lose out. While the UAE has made improvements, such as introducing savings-style EOSB schemes, many companies still use the traditional model. Why Employees Are Asking for More Here are just a few reasons UAE professionals want better retirement planning: 1. Job Security Is Less Certain People change jobs more often than they used to. Relying on a lump sum after years of service isn’t practical for mobile careers. 2. Higher Earnings = Higher Expectations Professionals in sectors like tech, finance, and consulting are earning more, and they want retirement planning to match their income and ambitions. 3. Inflation and Cost of Living Even in a tax-free environment, the long-term cost of living matters. A static lump sum at the end of your career doesn’t keep up with real-world inflation. 4. More Global Workers Many people in the UAE have worked in multiple countries. They’re familiar with international pension schemes, and they want similar options here. What Are the Alternatives? Several companies and free zones in the UAE are already offering new models for retirement planning: Monthly savings schemes with employer contributions Access to regulated investment funds tailored to retirement Portable savings accounts that follow you between jobs Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) launched the DIFC Employee Workplace Savings (DEWS) Plan, which has been a model for reform. Other areas may follow suit. What You Can Do Whether your employer offers advanced schemes or not, you can still take control of your retirement plan: Start a private pension or regular investment plan with expert advice Set up a monthly savings goal, even if it’s small to start Ask your employer if they’re willing to make monthly contributions Consider tax and currency implications if you plan to retire abroad Final Thoughts The way people think about retirement in the UAE is changing, and fast. It’s no longer about waiting for a lump sum and hoping it’s enough. UAE residents want to invest, plan ahead, and build financial independence while they’re still working. If you're living and working in the UAE, the best time to plan for retirement isn't when you're 60. It’s now! We help people across the UAE, UK and other jurisdictions set up private pension plans, understand retirement investments, and structure savings that work whether you retire in Dubai, UK or move abroad. Speak to one of our advisers today for clear, practical help with your long-term planning.