About Me

What I do

Cross-border planning isn’t just about picking investments. It’s about building a structure that remains suitable and workable as your residency, currency needs, and long-term objectives evolve.

• Long-term investment planning aligned to clear objectives and risk tolerance
• Retirement strategy for expats who may retire outside the UAE
• International estate planning considerations and succession planning
• Planning for future relocation and changes in residency status

Who I help

I typically work with expatriates and internationally mobile professionals and families who want to make informed decisions and avoid expensive mistakes.

• Expats living in Dubai and across the UAE
• International families with assets in more than one country
• Professionals building wealth while planning for a future move (Europe/UK/elsewhere)
• Individuals who want clarity around retirement income planning and long-term security

How I work

My approach is structured and practical. The goal is to create a plan that you understand, that can be reviewed, and that can adapt as your circumstances change.

• Discovery: objectives, timeline, current assets, residency status and likely future moves
• Planning: a clear strategy covering investments, retirement planning and succession considerations
• Implementation: building an appropriate structure aligned to your needs
• Ongoing review: keeping everything aligned as markets, life events and regulations evolve

Why clients work with me

Most people don’t need more information — they need a plan that connects the dots, stays compliant, and makes sense for an internationally mobile lifestyle.

• Cross-border focus for internationally mobile clients
• Planning built for real-world decisions: relocation, retirement, currency and family needs
• Clarity and structure — not jargon and product noise
• Long-term thinking with periodic review

This page is maintained as a reference resource about Pat Macdonald and the type of wealth planning work typically carried out for expatriate clients in the UAE and the wider GCC.

About the author

This page was written and maintained by Patrick Macdonald ACSI, an international financial adviser specialising in cross-border wealth management and financial planning for expatriates living in Dubai, the UAE, and the wider GCC.

Patrick’s work focuses on long-term investment planning, retirement strategy, and international estate planning considerations for globally mobile individuals, particularly where UK, US, and multi-jurisdictional rules can affect outcomes.

The content is designed as a practical reference resource and is periodically reviewed to reflect relevant regulatory and planning considerations.