While single-family offices were once the financial strongholds for dynastic families, they have emerged as global investment hubs in recent years. Today, these exclusive entities manage assets worth over $4.6 trillion, and are projected to grow to $9.5 trillion by 2030. Operating with discretion across continents and asset classes, they have become the key for ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) seeking a lasting legacy and strategic autonomy.
Particularly, the number of single family office in Dubai has increased manifold, as wealthy families are turning to the Middle East to preserve generational wealth.
New Frontiers and Opportunities with the Global Expansion of SFOs
1. Singapore
2. Dubai and Abu Dhabi
3. Miami and the Bahamas
In the West, Miami and the Bahamas are gaining increasing relevance for wealthy families in Latin America looking for stability and governance.
Beyond preserving wealth, these SFOs strategically allocate capital and oversee philanthropic activities. They also shoulder responsibilities like family governance, balancing both financial priorities and impact goals.
Long-Term Capital Stewardship for Generational Legacy
SFOs manage a diverse mix of assets – from private equity and luxury real estate to art collections and venture capital. The distinct advantage of SFOs lies in a generational perspective, as they invest early in emerging technologies. They also prioritize capital preservation during volatility and plan across decades rather than quarters.
This long-term perspective also fuels collaborative investment models like co-investment partnerships. Such structures involve the pooling of resources with peers or institutional partners, which enables SFOs to access larger deal flows in private equity, infrastructure, and real estate. At the same time, they share risks and enhance governance.
Operational Complexity Demands the Right Talent
Steering SFOs ahead calls for much more than financial expertise.
- Integrated teams work on investments, legal, tax, philanthropy, succession, governance, and concierge services.
- Professionals must operate discreetly while expecting shifts in the market and family dynamics.
- The modern SFO is a mix of a private bank, an investment firm, an advisory council, and a family assembly.
Setting up a Family Office Singapore Vs Dubai
Both Singapore and Dubai have emerged as prominent hubs for establishing a single family office. Here are the strategic benefits of setting up an SFO in these two countries.
Feature | Singapore | Dubai |
Regulatory Framework | Stable, global-standard, strong IP protection | DIFC and ADGM-based policies with regulations specific to family offices |
Tax Environment | No income, no capital gains, but no inheritance tax either | Zero personal taxes, no inheritance tax, clarity via corporate tax laws |
Co-Investment Opportunities | Access to regional PE, GP-led funds, and co-invest platforms | Strong Middle East or Asian deal flow with global co-invest structures |
Talent Market | Rich ecosystem of family office professionals | A growing base of multilingual managers experienced in crypto and real assets |
Lifestyle and Residency | Visa routes via GIP, EntrePass, and world-class living standards | Citizenship-by-investment options, luxurious lifestyle, and seamless global mobility |
Professional Consultation for Setting up a Single Family Office
FAQs
- What is the typical capital needed to launch an SFO?
While there is no universal benchmark, families often begin with the AUM in the $100 to 500 million range, which makes the operational infrastructure viable. - Are there shared compliance requirements across jurisdictions?
Yes. KYC, AML, reporting standards, and investment legislations can differ based on domicile and structure. - Can SFOs invest alongside institutional funds
Yes. Many SFOs pursue global family office co-investment partnership opportunities in PE, real estate, or infrastructure. - How can I compare Singapore vs. Dubai
While comparing the benefits of setting up a family office in Singapore or Dubai, consider key factors like tax, regulatory alignment, investment access, and lifestyle.
IMC Group