Dubai: WTW, a global advisory, broking, and solutions company, announced its receipt of approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) for a licence to operate as WTW Investments (DIFC) Limited within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
According to Emirates News Agency, this approval marks a significant milestone in WTW's strategic expansion across the Middle East and represents a fundamental shift in how the firm can engage with clients and prospects in the region. For the first time, WTW will be able to arrange access to its full suite of regulated investment capabilities in and from DIFC, transitioning to a locally anchored, scalable platform with direct access to some of the world's most dynamic and fast-growing investment markets.
The DFSA licence positions WTW to offer investment advisory services and arrange access to fund solutions in and from DIFC, opening access to a range of market segments. These include wealth management, family offices, end-of-service benefits, and auto-enrolment-areas experiencing growth as the region's financial landscape continues to mature.
The announcement builds on a foundation for WTW in the region. Even before securing local licensing, WTW Investments had an established business in the Middle East, delivering strategic advisory work to some of the largest sovereign wealth funds and public pension plans in the region. It has also supported UAE, Qatar, and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia-headquartered global employers with integrated International Pension and Savings Plan capabilities.
Diya Luke, Global Head of Investments at WTW, stated that the licence approval is a landmark moment for WTW, highlighting the depth of opportunity across the Middle East and the importance of establishing trusted relationships with sophisticated asset owners.
Arif Amiri, CEO at the Dubai International Financial Centre Authority, emphasized that WTW Investments' decision to establish a regional presence in DIFC reflects Dubai's status as a preferred destination for global wealth and asset management firms. DIFC offers direct access to regional growth opportunities, capital, and clients.
With more than US$3.6 trillion in assets under advisory and US$187 billion in assets under management, WTW Investments brings expertise in investment advisory and institutional consulting to the DIFC community. Dr. Ahmad Waarie, Director of WTW Investments (DIFC) and Head of MENA at WTW, noted that the DFSA Licence represents a pivotal step in WTW's regional journey, emphasizing the Middle East as a strategic priority.