Manulife has taken a significant step in expanding its global services by opening a new office in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). This move makes Manulife the first international life insurance provider focused on high-net-worth (HNW) clients to establish a presence in DIFC under a Category 4 license. The new license allows Manulife to both advise on and arrange life insurance plans tailored for wealthy individuals in the Middle East.
This new office reflects Manulife’s strategic focus on supporting the region’s fast-growing population of HNW and ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals. Acting as a regional hub, the DIFC location will deliver personalized insurance solutions, helping affluent clients with legacy planning, wealth protection, and complex financial strategies.
Jean Wong, CEO of Manulife Global High-Net-Worth, emphasized the importance of the Middle East in the company’s global growth plan. She noted that the DIFC office strengthens Manulife’s reach by connecting it with a strong network of private wealth advisors, family offices, and financial innovators across the region.
Manulife brings over two decades of experience in serving HNW clients through teams in Bermuda, Hong Kong, and Singapore. With a presence in more than 150 countries, the company delivers tailored solutions through an established international broker network, addressing sophisticated financial needs across jurisdictions.
The expansion comes at a time of rising global wealth. HNW and UHNW individuals currently hold nearly US$80 trillion, with that figure expected to grow by 38% over the next five years. Manulife’s entry into DIFC positions it to meet growing demand for advanced wealth planning and protection services in this thriving market.
Arif Amiri, CEO of the DIFC Authority, welcomed Manulife’s arrival, highlighting that it reinforces DIFC’s status as a hub for global insurers and reinsurers. As of late 2024, DIFC was home to 125 insurance-related firms, including global brokers, MGAs, and Lloyd’s affiliates, all attracted by the Centre’s favorable regulatory environment and strategic location.
The opening of Manulife’s DIFC office represents a strong commitment to both the region and its clients. With this new base in Dubai, Manulife is well-positioned to deliver expert insurance and financial solutions to HNW clients across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
Image Credit:
“220 Bloor St., View 2” – Courtesy of Manulife.
