Abu Dhabi is evolving rapidly from an oil-based economy into a diversified, globally connected hub for innovation, culture, and finance. From the gleaming Saadiyat cultural district to the expanding financial centre ADGM, the city radiates confidence in its future.
For Julius Baer, this transformation presents a compelling opportunity. After two decades of steady growth in Dubai, the bank is proud to deepen its presence in the UAE with its new Abu Dhabi office – a milestone that bridges the city’s energy with the enduring values of Swiss private banking and a commitment to its clients in the region.
Proximity that builds trust
Establishing an office in Abu Dhabi strengthens Julius Baer’s ability to serve clients with proximity and understanding. For Régis Burger, Head of Middle East & Africa, this local foothold is essential: “While the UAE is one country, each emirate has its own distinct identity. Local presence makes all the difference.”
The team in Abu Dhabi will be led by Amir Iskander, Chief Executive Officer of Julius Baer (Abu Dhabi) Ltd. He believes a personal approach is vital in the Middle East. “Clients want to know we’re committed to the market, not just visiting. Here, business is built on trust. And trust grows through shared experiences – attending family events, social gatherings, community occasions such as weddings or charity events.”
Abu Dhabi has established itself as a leading centre for finance, driven by a national vision that champions innovation and economic diversification. Located within the ADGM, Julius Baer’s new office is part of a thriving ecosystem that brings together global investors, entrepreneurs, and financial institutions. “ADGM is evolving at a remarkable speed,” says Amir. “Being here gives us a front-row seat to the capital’s transformation.”
Julius Baer’s global expertise can bring unique value in this dynamic environment with its strong focus on innovation and technology. “Abu Dhabi is often referred to as the ‘capital of capital’,” says Amir, “and we’re seeing rising interest in Sharia-compliant solutions, AI-related investment opportunities, and sustainable finance.”
Where longstanding heritage meets Abu Dhabi ambition
For 135 years, Julius Baer has stood for personal connections, advice tailored to its clients’ aspirations, and relationships that span generations. This year, the bank celebrated a century at Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse 36 – a landmark that has seen its transformation from a family-owned institution into the world’s leading pure-play wealth manager.
“Many of our clients in Abu Dhabi travel regularly to Switzerland,” says Amir. “They admire its culture, precision, and quality. Our Zurich headquarters resonate strongly with clients seeking stability, discretion, and service excellence.”
The new office brings this distinctive blend of Swiss refinement and international reach directly to the doorstep of our clients in the capital. “With roots tracing back to 1890, we continue to proudly build on our legacy of serving families with care, discretion, and long-term commitment – blending timeless values with the forward-looking vision of this fast-moving city,” says Régis.
Deep roots, strong relationships
Amir, whose experience and long-standing relationships in the region reflect the team’s commitment to the UAE, is joined by Iman Hassan El-Fiky and Haitham Awad, seasoned relationship managers with deep local insight.
For Iman, who has lived and worked in Abu Dhabi for over two decades, the city’s close-knit nature defines how business is done. “Our clients are discerning investors who value bespoke service and continuity. Understanding their goals and family priorities gives us a clear advantage.”
Haitham is motivated by the opportunity to give clients choice and perspective in how they grow and protect their wealth. “At Julius Baer, we have the privilege of combining access to local opportunities with the full breadth of our global platform,” he says. “That open architecture allows us to offer truly international solutions.”
Charting the next chapter in Abu Dhabi
Julius Baer’s ambitions for Abu Dhabi are as bold as the city’s own. The bank aims to establish itself as the partner of choice for discerning clients seeking enduring relationships, thoughtful advice, and access to global opportunity. As Amir puts it, “We combine the scale and resources of a universal bank with the personalised attention of a boutique. That dual strength is our competitive edge.”
This vision aligns seamlessly with Julius Baer’s strategic priorities, which encompass measures to drive sustainable growth and sharpen its global footprint to strengthen its top positions in core geographies. The Middle East, and Abu Dhabi in particular, plays a central role in this journey. In June, Stefan Bollinger, Chief Executive Officer, announced the Bank’s intention to invest in high-growth markets, mentioning markets such as the Middle East.
That intention is already being realised in Abu Dhabi. “With Abu Dhabi, we aim to build on the success we have enjoyed in Dubai over the past 20 years”, says Régis. “We have an outstanding team and a clear understanding of the market’s potential.”
Together towards new horizons
For Iman Hassan El-Fiky, the vision is clear: “I want to see Julius Baer become a household name in Abu Dhabi – one associated with excellence and trust.” That vision is shared across the team. “For Julius Baer, the new office is a promise to our clients that we’re here, on the ground, committed to their ambitions and success,” says Amir. “It’s a continuation of our Swiss legacy, re-imagined for a new generation of clients in a city that shares our belief in innovation, integrity, and longevity.”
From Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse to Abu Dhabi’s financial centre, the journey spans geography and generations – uniting Swiss heritage with Abu Dhabi’s outlook. Régis concludes: “As the doors of our new office open, we’re looking forward – with pride in where we’ve come from, and confidence in where we’re going.”