Your reputation
is our success
Regulatory licensing and outsourced compliance, risk and finance functions for firms in the DIFC and ADGM. Practical, proportionate and built around what the regulator actually expects.
Tell us where you are, and we'll show you where we help
From business plan to In-Principle Approval
We run the DFSA or FSRA application end to end: the Regulatory Business Plan, the financial projections, the AUT and SUP forms, the controlled-function appointments and the framework the regulator expects to see in place on day one.
- Category assessment and choice of licence scope
- Regulatory Business Plan and capital projections
- Compliance, AML and risk frameworks ready for authorisation
- Liaison with the regulator through to licence grant
Outsourced control functions that hold up to inspection
Our approved individuals act as your Compliance Officer, MLRO, Finance Officer or Risk Officer, and run the monitoring, reporting and training that keeps the licence in good standing.
- Outsourced Compliance Officer and MLRO
- Compliance monitoring programme and annual reviews
- Prudential returns, AML returns and regulator filings
- Staff training and thematic review responses
Change the licence without disrupting the business
Adding activities, moving between categories, opening a second centre or absorbing an acquired book all require regulator engagement. We plan the sequence and carry the paperwork.
- Variations of licence and new financial services
- Business risk assessments and framework refreshes
- Independent internal audit and remediation plans
- Governance reviews for boards and senior management
End-to-end regulatory and compliance support
From the first conversation about a licence to the ongoing work of running it well.
Regulatory applications
DFSA and FSRA authorisations for financial services providers, fund managers, fintech firms and DNFBPs, from the first assessment to In-Principle Approval.
Outsourced compliance
Compliance Officer and MLRO functions, policies and procedures, monitoring and testing, training, independent reviews and FATCA, CRS and ESR filings.
Finance, risk and internal audit
Outsourced Finance Officer and Risk Officer, prudential reporting, VAT and corporate tax, enterprise risk assessments and independent internal audit.
Depth, proximity and practical judgement
- On the ground in both centres. Offices in the DIFC and on Al Reem Island, close to the DFSA, the FSRA and the firms we serve.
- Regulator-focused. Proportionate solutions built for your business model, implemented and evidenced rather than only documented.
- Approved individuals, not just advisers. Our consultants hold authorised Compliance Officer, MLRO, Finance Officer and Risk Officer functions at client firms.
A short history, and a deliberate one
Each step added capability the existing client base was already asking for.
Primo Advisors established
Founded in the DIFC, and billing its first clients the same month.
ADGM branch opens
A second regulated presence in Abu Dhabi, extending the practice into the FSRA regime.
Merger with Artemis Consultancy
Artemis brings its client base, its consulting team and Ward Ferraye as Managing Director.
Where we are now
Thirteen professionals serving 70+ active clients across the ADGM, DIFC and UAE mainland.
The team behind your compliance
Compliance is bought on confidence. Meet the people who will sit in front of your regulator.
Nico Van Bockstal
Managing DirectorGovernance, risk and compliance professional based in the UAE since 2008. Formerly led GRC services at Vistra and Total Solutions Middle East after senior compliance roles at Société Générale Private Banking and Bank J. Van Breda & Co in Belgium.
Ward Ferraye
Managing DirectorWorks with clients across both financial centres on authorisations, outsourced control functions and advisory engagements. Known for a practical approach and strong regulatory relationships.
Behind them, a team of thirteen approved and authorised professionals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. See open positions.
Regulated firms of every category
Our clients range from single-office advisers to fund managers with international parents.
Before you call us
Insight that keeps your firm ahead
Our commentary on DFSA and FSRA consultations, rule changes and enforcement themes, written for the people who have to act on them.
Partner with experts today
Tell us where your firm is on its regulatory journey and we'll map the path from here.
Book a consultationTwo centres, one team
Dubai office (DIFC)
Central Park Towers, Office Tower, Level 17, Unit 17-39DIFC, PO Box 507267, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Abu Dhabi office (ADGM)
Sky Tower, Unit 3701-08 - D9, Al Reem IslandADGM, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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