The Dubai Centre for Family Businesses has released a public directory of 56 family business advisors, aiming to simplify access to advisory services for family-owned firms in the emirate. The move is part of a wider effort by Dubai Chambers to support governance, succession planning, and long-term sustainability in the sector.
The listing includes two categories of professionals: advisors with direct experience supporting family businesses, and certified consultants who have completed the Family Business Advisor and Family Wealth Advisor programmes delivered in partnership with the US-based Family Firm Institute (FFI).
Each advisor is listed with a profile detailing their background, certifications, and areas of specialisation. The directory covers advisory needs such as corporate and family governance frameworks, restructuring, succession, mergers and acquisitions, and dispute resolution.
The certification programme, launched in 2023, is part of a broader push to formalise standards in the advisory space for family-owned enterprises. The FFI, which partners with the centre, operates the Global Education Network and is one of the leading credentialing bodies in the field globally.
Family-owned businesses make up a large portion of Dubai’s private sector. According to the UAE Ministry of Economy, family businesses contribute approximately 40% to the country’s GDP and employ more than 80% of the private sector workforce.
By standardising qualifications and increasing visibility for trusted advisors, the Dubai Centre for Family Businesses aims to improve decision-making and succession outcomes for multi-generational firms.
