In episode 195 of the Financial Planner Life podcast, Sam Oakes is joined by Jacob Hall, recently promoted to Global Director of Advisory in 2024 for Hoxton Wealth They discuss why Dubai is becoming a prime destination for UK-based financial planners looking to expand their careers internationally. With insights into the benefits of living and working in Dubai and the unique opportunities available for financial planners, this episode offers a comprehensive look at why moving to Dubai could be a game-changer for your career.
A New Home in Dubai
Jacob Hall’s journey to Dubai began in February 2012. What was initially intended as a two-year stint has turned into a long-term commitment.
“When we first moved out here, it was just for two years to see what it was like and try something different. Now, this is home,” Jacob reflects.
The city’s appeal goes beyond its tax advantages, though that is a significant draw.
“Dubai is known as one of the hardest working cities in the world. People are willing to work a bit harder because the lifestyle is good,” Jacob explains.
A Thriving Hub for Financial Services
For financial planners, Dubai is not just a place to live; it’s a strategic location for business. The city is a central hub, allowing professionals to manage client relationships across multiple jurisdictions. Jacob emphasises the advantage of Dubai’s location:
“Dubai is a great central hub to build an international business. You can manage clients in multiple time zones effectively because of where we’re situated.”
This international focus is crucial in today’s globalised world, where clients often move across borders and need continuous financial advice. Hoxton Capital Management, where Jacob leads an international advice team, has leveraged Dubai’s strategic position to provide borderless financial planning services. The firm is licensed to give financial planning advice in multiple regions, ensuring that clients receive consistent, high-quality service wherever they are in the world.
Hoxton Capital Management is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the USA, and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) for its operations across Europe.
“Our approach at Hoxton allows us to offer continuity of advice no matter where our clients are located. The regulation and licenses we have enable us to serve clients globally,” Jacob notes.
A Wealth of Opportunities
Financial planners often overlook the benefits and ease of continuing to service clients from the UK while enjoying the tax-free advantages of Dubai.
“However, the opportunities for financial planners in Dubai are not limited to just the UAE. Many advisers at Hoxton Capital Management have built significant international client books, including in regions like the USA, where there is substantial growth potential.
“Our advisers aren’t restricted to just the UAE. They’re working with clients in the US, Europe, Australia, and beyond. The international scope is one of the major benefits of being based here,” Jacob adds.
A Balanced Lifestyle for Everyone
While the professional opportunities are immense, Jacob also highlights Dubai’s balanced lifestyle, making it ideal for families and those without children.
“Dubai is fantastic for families and singles alike. There’s always something to do, whether it’s visiting the world-famous Dubai Mall, exploring the desert with a dune-bashing adventure, or enjoying a day at the beach. For families, there are numerous parks, aquariums, and kid-friendly attractions like Legoland and Aquaventure Waterpark,” Jacob says.
The city is also known for its high-quality schools and safe environment, which are important factors for families considering a move.
“Dubai is incredibly safe, and the quality of education here is top-notch. It’s a place where you can feel confident raising your children,” Jacob adds.
Sam Oakes, who recently decided to move to Dubai himself, agrees, noting that the transition was smooth and that Dubai offers a welcoming environment for families.
“The process of moving to Dubai was quick and easy. The city’s focus on safety and the excellent schools really stood out to me as a parent. It’s a fantastic place to raise a family,” says Sam.
Continuing the Journey
For UK-based financial planners considering an international move, Dubai presents an unparalleled opportunity. The combination of a tax-free environment, a thriving business hub, and a lifestyle that encourages both hard work and leisure makes it an ideal destination.
Jacob Hall shares more about his journey and experiences on episode 195 of the Financial Planner Life podcast with host Sam Oakes. In the episode, Jacob delves deeper into the benefits of living and working in Dubai, the international opportunities available, and his recent promotion to Global Head of Advisory at Hoxton Capital Management.
Already serving as Head of Creative at Hoxton Capital Management, Sam is attracted by the huge growth opportunities available for financial planners internationally. He believes that many UK financial planners don’t fully understand the advantages of joining an international financial planning company—whether they remain in the UK or move abroad.
“There’s a tremendous opportunity for advisers to benefit from tax advantages without having to give up their client relationships in the UK,” says Sam.
To hear more about Jacob Hall’s story and gain further insights into why Dubai could be the next big move for your financial planning career, listen to the full episode on the Financial Planner Life podcast – interested in job opportunities with Hoxton. click here
