It was a great pleasure to participate in the second programme of the Wealth Investment Certificate Course launched in collaboration between Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and Market Advantage Institute in the splendid surroundings of the 25H Hotel in Dubai.

The topic of our panel discussion was “Effective Strategies for Succession Planning and Governance Structures”. The discussion focussed on the vital role of family offices in the GCC where merchant families have, for generations, within the framework of the unique local historical and cultural traditions found in the region, exerted great influence not only economically but also socially and politically.

I was able to draw on decades of personal experience working closely with many of the most prominent and pioneering families in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries to highlight how it is critical to maintain carefully planned governance structures in order to preserve family legacies and enhance effective intergenerational succession.

It is estimated that $1 trillion in assets will pass to the next generation within the UAE alone over the next decade. This seismic shift dramatically underscores the urgency of robust succession planning to ensure financial continuity. Family offices need to be able to balance the founders' desire to maintain control with younger generations' often more progressive views on diversification and modern asset classes. The critical need for tools such as family councils and constitutions which help codify values, clarify roles and resolve conflicts were emphasised.

By embracing structured governance, holistic wealth management and external advisory expertise, family offices can ensure their legacies thrive amid the evolving dynamics of intergenerational leadership.

The evening was masterfully moderated by Rachel Pether, CFA and it was a pleasure to share the conversation with the other distinguished panelists Bhaskar Dasgupta, Navin Valrani, Antoine Yazbek, Vignesh Vijayakumar, and Nirav Shah.

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