Henry Dannell opens DIFC office as cross-border financing demand rises

Henry Dannell, a UK-based debt advisory firm, has opened a representative office in the Dubai International Financial Centre to serve clients seeking cross-border debt financing for assets held across multiple jurisdictions. The firm specialises in arranging debt financing for wealthy individuals and families on property transactions, corporate finance arrangements and luxury asset purchases. Transactions will be executed through the firm's regulated London entities, with the DIFC office serving to build connections with regional advisers and clients.

Specialist financing for international asset holdings#

The firm works exclusively on debt financing rather than broader wealth management services. Kem Kemal, co-founder of Henry Dannell, stated that clients increasingly need expertise in complex financing as wealth becomes more international and financing needs span multiple jurisdictions. The company said the Dubai opening is part of its long-term expansion strategy and represents its assessment of the region's financial infrastructure. DIFC provides access to an international business community and a regulatory environment that supports firms serving clients whose investments extend across borders.

Dubai as gateway for internationally mobile wealth#

Dubai has attracted investors, family offices and entrepreneurs drawn by economic growth, a business-friendly environment and its position as a gateway between Europe, Asia and Africa. The emirate's role as a hub for globally mobile investors and wealthy families is creating opportunities for specialist financial advisory firms focused on cross-border financing. Wealthy individuals now hold property, business interests and alternative investments in multiple countries, creating demand for financing arrangements that work across jurisdictions. The firm said this trend is reshaping the advisory market and creating demand for expertise in debt financing.

Talent development in financial services#

The firm reported an average employee age of 29, which it attributes to a recruitment approach focused on younger professionals who receive training within the business. Kemal stated that financial services face a widening gap in specialist advice and available talent, requiring firms to develop the next generation through training and investment. The firm said demand for specialist debt advisory services is expected to remain strong in centres such as Dubai that are attracting internationally mobile wealth. Financial firms are establishing operations in the Gulf as the region's concentration of wealth continues to grow.

DIFC regulatory framework#

The DIFC office will operate as a representative office, with lending transactions executed through the firm's regulated entities in London. Kemal said DIFC offers a regulatory environment that positions Dubai as a suitable location for businesses serving clients with investments spanning multiple countries. The firm said the expansion follows a pattern of financial services providers seeking access to Gulf markets.