Abu Dhabi wants to be among global biggest financial centres

Action plan: A view of the Abu Dhabi city from the observation deck of the Emirates Towers. City officials are looking to seize the moment to offer a fresh package of lifestyle perks in the hopes of attracting more financiers. — Reuters

LONDON: Abu Dhabi officials are quietly orchestrating a fresh package of perks they hope will help propel the city up the ranks of the world’s biggest financial centres, from helping traders obtain coveted school admissions for their children to assisting them with securing memberships at country clubs.

While the city’s US$1.5 trillion in sovereign wealth capital will continue to be the main draw for hedge fund managers making a beeline for Abu Dhabi, officials are formalising a programme that will offer incentives, including lifestyle support and visas, as part of its overall package for finance professionals moving to the region.