Who we are
We are a specialist governance, risk, compliance, and regulatory advisory firm dedicated to supporting financial services firms and regulated businesses across the UAE’s leading financial centers. With deep, hands‑on expertise in the DIFC and ADGM regulatory frameworks, we help clients navigate complex expectations with clarity and confidence.
Our work spans the entire business lifecycle—from securing the right regulatory license to embedding strong governance structures, outsourcing key control functions, and providing ongoing strategic advice. Whether you’re launching a new firm, enhancing your operating model, or scaling into new markets, we act as your regulatory partner—proactive, responsive, and fully aligned with your ambitions.
We believe that strong governance is a strategic advantage. By combining technical expertise with practical, real‑world experience, we help businesses operate with confidence, safeguard their reputation, and build sustainable growth in one of the world’s most dynamic regulatory environments.
How we got here
A short history, and a deliberate one
Each step added capability the existing client base was already asking for.
1
December 2022
Primo Advisors established
Founded in the Dubai International Financial Centre, and billing its first clients the same month.
2
August 2025
ADGM branch opens
A second regulated presence in Abu Dhabi, extending the practice from the DFSA regime into the FSRA regime.
3
October 2025
Merger with Artemis Consultancy
Artemis joins Primo, bringing its client base, its consulting team, and Ward Ferraye as Managing Director.
4
2026
Where we are now
Thirteen professionals across Dubai and Abu Dhabi serving 70+ active clients in the ADGM, DIFC and the UAE mainland.
Growth has been organic and client-led: funded from the business, with no external capital raised.
Meet The management
Nico Van Bockstal is a seasoned Governance, Risk, and Compliance professional who has been based in the UAE since 2008. Before founding Primo Advisors, he led GRC services at Vistra and Total Solutions Middle East, following senior compliance roles in Belgium at Société Générale Private Banking and Bank J. Van Breda & Co. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Master of Laws from KU Leuven, and is a certified compliance officer with extensive professional qualifications in compliance and risk management. A native Dutch speaker, Nico is fluent in English and French, with working knowledge of German and Spanish
Nico Van Bockstal
Ward Ferraye is the Managing Director at Primo Advisors, working closely with clients across the UAE’s financial centres on compliance, regulatory, and KYC programmes. He oversees authorization projects, outsourced control functions, and advisory engagements for a wide range of regional and international financial institutions. Known for his practical approach and strong regulatory relationships, Ward plays a key leadership role in shaping the firm’s frameworks and guiding its growing client base.
Ward Ferraye
Contact us
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