Family Office in Abu Dhabi

Partner Profile

Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE

Industry: Family Office

Focus: Philanthropy, Culture, and Legacy Preservation

A prominent Abu Dhabi-based family office sought to build a private art collection that reflected their cultural heritage, values, and long-term investment goals. Their mission was to create a meaningful legacy while ensuring that each acquisition was a sound financial asset.

Helen Frankenthaler, Mountains and Sea (1952; oil and charcoal on canvas, 219.4 × 297.8 cm), in the collection of the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation, New York, on long-term loan to the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.

The Challenge

The family office faced key challenges in curating a collection that was both culturally and financially significant:

  • Establishing a Unified Narrative – They wanted a collection that reflected their values and told a compelling, cohesive story.
  • Balancing Legacy & Investment – Each acquisition needed to be culturally relevant while also demonstrating long-term market stability.
  • Navigating Emerging Artists – While interested in innovative talent, they were wary of the speculative risks associated with newer artists.
  • Ensuring Estate & Legacy Planning – The collection had to be seamlessly integrated into their estate strategy to preserve its integrity for future generations.
 

To achieve this, the family required expert guidance in curating, sourcing, and structuring their collection.

Zurani’s Tailored Solution

1. Curatorial Strategy Development

Designed a bespoke curatorial vision that aligned with the family’s values:

  • Innovation – A modern, forward-thinking collection.
  • Heritage & Cultural Preservation – Artworks that reflect their historical and regional identity.
  • Philanthropic Impact – Pieces that contribute to cultural awareness and appreciation.

This strategic approach ensured each acquisition added to a cohesive and meaningful collection.

2. Strategic Sourcing & Acquisition

  • Identified historically significant works by established artists.
  • Introduced carefully selected emerging artists with strong market potential.
  • Conducted rigorous authentication & valuation assessments before acquisitions.
 

By combining proven investments with strategic emerging acquisitions, we balanced innovation with financial prudence.

3. Exhibition Planning & Global Visibility

Arranged for key artworks to be featured in major international exhibitions, enhancing:

  • The collection’s cultural impact
  • Its global recognition and prestige
  • Long-term market appreciation

4. Legacy & Estate Planning

Worked closely with legal and financial advisors to ensure a structured and seamless transition of the collection to future generations.

  • Addressed tax implications, valuation accuracy, and preservation strategies to minimise financial and legal complexities.
  • This approach guaranteed that the collection would remain a lasting testament to the family’s vision, heritage, and philanthropic mission.

The Outcome

Zurani successfully launched a cohesive and culturally significant collection that has:

  • Been showcased in major exhibitions, elevating its profile.
  • Received critical acclaim and industry recognition.
  • Demonstrated steady market appreciation, aligning with both legacy and investment goals.

Client Testimonial

“Zurani’s team provided us with a clear and compelling vision for our collection, exceeding our highest expectations. From the very beginning, they showcased an exceptional ability to understand our family’s values and long-term goals. Their expertise in balancing cultural significance with financial value was truly remarkable, ensuring that every piece we acquired was both a sound investment and a meaningful addition to our legacy.

What stood out most was their meticulous attention to detail and ability to anticipate challenges we hadn’t considered. They excelled at identifying works with impeccable provenance and curating pieces that tell a cohesive story. They turned what initially seemed like an overwhelming process into an inspiring journey.

Thanks to Zurani, our collection is not just an asset; it’s a testament to our family’s vision and heritage—something we are proud to share with future generations and the world.”

Family Office Representative, Abu Dhabi

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