Local Registration of Foreign Fund in the UAE

Access the UAE’s fast-growing investor base with structured, compliant fund registration

The UAE has become one of the most active wealth hubs in the world, attracting fund managers from Europe, the UK, Asia, and beyond. With over $1.5 trillion in private wealth and a rising appetite for private markets, alternatives, and global strategies, the opportunity for foreign fund managers is clear. But tapping into this investor base requires more than a product—it demands regulatory alignment, structural foresight, and on-the-ground access.

At Kingsbury & Partners, we help international fund managers and placement agents navigate the legal, licensing, and distribution requirements for foreign fund marketing in the UAE. Whether through the Securities & Commodities Authority (SCA), the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), or the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), we ensure your fund is positioned for compliant access—without wasted time or avoidable roadblocks.

What It Offers

Our support covers the full lifecycle of foreign fund marketing—whether you are registering a Luxembourg UCITS, Cayman SPC, or private equity feeder:

• Introduction to the required Legal Representatives: SCA requires a legal representative to prepare and submit the application for registration as well as the annual renewals.
• Fund registration with the UAE regulator (SCA): Navigate the approval process to register your foreign fund for distribution to qualified investors in the mainland.
• Compliance with UAE promotion rules: Ensure your marketing activities, events, and material are aligned with local rules, including investor categorisation and documentation.
• Introduction to licensed local distributors: Access a network of regulated placement agents and wealth firms for legal distribution.

Who It’s For

This service is designed for:

• Fund managers looking to access UAE investors
• Private equity and private credit funds
• UK FCA, US SEC, Singapore MAS, Australian ASIC, Hong Kong SEC, European ESMA-regulated funds.
• UK and EU investment firms marketing offshore funds
• Regulated placement agents seeking clarity on local rules
• Asset managers targeting HNWIs, family offices, and institutions in the UAE

Understanding Your Needs

Fund registration in the UAE isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about understanding the nuances of a jurisdiction where regulation, reputation, and relationships matter equally. We recognise that global fund managers want efficient, informed, and commercially sound routes to market—without overbuilding, overpaying, or falling afoul of unclear rules.

Kingsbury & Partners acts as your bridge. We facilitate introductions, assess routes to market, and connect you with the right legal, regulatory, and placement partners across the mainland and free zones.