For most offshore life policies held by UAE-based expats, you may be able to change the adviser linked to your policy by completing the provider's change of adviser form, sometimes called an agency transfer. The policy itself will usually stay as it is: same provider, same policy number, same investments, unless you choose to make changes. As the policyholder, you do not normally need your current adviser's agreement to appoint someone new, although each provider's process and terms apply.

Why people change adviser

Common reasons include:

  • The original adviser has left the firm or the country.
  • You have not had a review in years.
  • You have moved country and want an adviser who understands your new tax position.
  • You want a second opinion on whether the policy still suits you.

Changing adviser is not the same as changing the policy. It changes who services the policy and who the provider will share information with and, where you authorise it, take instructions from.

How the process usually works

The exact steps vary by provider, but the pattern is often similar:

  1. Choose a new adviser. In the UAE, the Central Bank of the UAE supervises the insurance sector and licenses insurance brokers onshore. Firms in the DIFC or ADGM are regulated by the DFSA or the FSRA respectively, each of which publishes a public register. Check that whoever you choose is properly authorised for the advice they give where you live.
  2. Complete the change of adviser form. Many providers publish one in their document library. Some have separate forms depending on the product or company that issued the policy.
  3. Sign and submit. The new adviser often helps with the paperwork, but the instruction comes from you as the policyholder. Joint policyholders usually both need to sign.
  4. Provider confirmation. Once processed, the provider updates its records and confirms the change. The new adviser's details should then appear on your statements and online account.

What stays the same and what can change

A change of adviser does not normally:

  • surrender or restart your policy
  • change your policy number or start date
  • move your money out of its current funds, unless you ask

It can affect:

  • Who receives information. Your new adviser will usually be able to see valuations and statements.
  • Adviser remuneration. Offshore policies are often expensive and frequently sold with high upfront commission, which is why the value can look lower than what was paid in. How any ongoing adviser remuneration is handled after a change depends on the policy terms and what you agree with the new adviser. Ask for this in writing before you sign.
  • Investment approach. A new adviser may suggest different funds. Any switch should be explained and agreed with you first.

For background on how these policies are generally structured, see our guide to this type of offshore policy.

Questions to ask before you switch

  • Is the new adviser authorised to advise on this type of policy where you live?
  • What will they do for you on an ongoing basis, and how will they be paid?
  • Will any ongoing remuneration from your policy go to them, and is that in addition to any separate fee?
  • Will they review whether the policy still suits you, rather than only taking over servicing?

Clear answers help you compare advisers fairly and avoid surprises. If something goes wrong, raise a complaint with the provider first; for insurers licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE, Sanadak may be able to consider unresolved complaints.

Worked example

Illustrative example only, not a real client.

Helen took out an offshore savings plan in Dubai nine years ago. Her original adviser left the UAE four years ago and she has not had a review since. She logs in to the provider's online service, which still lists her old adviser. She chooses a new adviser, checks their authorisation, completes the provider's change of adviser form with them, and both she and her husband sign it as joint policyholders.

A few weeks later the provider confirms the change. Her policy number and funds are unchanged, and the change itself does not alter her policy's value. Her new adviser then reviews the plan with her, explains the figures and sets out the options, which depending on her circumstances could include keeping the plan as it is, changing funds, or other routes under the policy's terms.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming you need the old adviser's permission.
  • Signing a change of adviser form without understanding how the new adviser will be paid.
  • Confusing a change of adviser with surrendering or replacing the policy.
  • Choosing an adviser without checking their regulatory authorisation.

Sources and further reading

If you would like an independent view of whether your policy still suits you, request a free independent policy review from a regulated financial adviser to understand your figures and options.

Last reviewed: October 2026. Tax year: 2026/27. Jurisdictions covered: UAE (onshore, DIFC and ADGM), UK. Rates, legislation and guidance change, so recheck before relying on this. Rules can differ between England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland; tax residence is fact-specific; treaty outcomes depend on residence, domicile or nationality provisions; examples are simplified and omit reliefs, costs, exchange rates and anti-avoidance rules. This is general information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Take advice in the relevant country before acting.