Wealthy Chinese nationals are increasingly turning to Dubai and Abu Dhabi to establish family offices and secure residency, reflecting frustration with tighter rules in Singapore, long a favoured destination, reports London's Financial Times.

Private bankers and advisers say enquiries from Chinese clients have risen sharply over the past year, with family offices offering a pathway to residency or citizenship in the Gulf.

"They are attracted by the ability to get residency status and live and enjoy stability," said Mike Tan, Standard Chartered's Singapore-based global head of wealth planning and family advisory.

Mr Tan noted enquiries about Dubai from east Asian clients had surged, though the bank declined to provide figures.

Official data show family-related entities in Dubai's offshore financial centre reached 1,000 by mid-year, up from 800 at the end of last year and 600 in 2023. Advisers believe much of the increase stems from Chinese individuals.