DUAL Underwriting Ireland DAC has announced a new partnership with Hiscox Ireland to create one of the largest providers of high-net-worth (HNW) insurance products in the Irish market. The collaboration combines DUAL's specialist underwriting expertise and strong broker relationships with Hiscox's reputation and technical depth in HNW insurance. For insurance brokers offering these specialized covers - that include high-value homes, luxury yachts and private aircraft - this could be a significant opportunity to capture a lucrative market segment seeking tailored protection and expert advice.
Under the arrangement, DUAL will manage the day-to-day underwriting, servicing and broker engagement, while Hiscox will provide capacity and oversight. The partnership will streamline decision-making for brokers and clients, while enhancing risk insight through shared expertise, the company said, adding that the partnership marks a significant step in DUAL's ambition to become Ireland's leading provider of HNW insurance.
Barry O'Dwyer, managing director of DUAL Ireland, described the partnership as a transformative moment for the sector, saying it brings together DUAL's focus on personalised service with Hiscox's longstanding reputation in the HNW space. Meanwhile, Richard O'Dwyer, managing director of Hiscox Ireland, said the market for HNW cover is expanding and the joint proposition will set a new benchmark for service and client experience.
The HNW market in Ireland has been growing steadily, driven by rising property values, greater demand for specialist asset protection and an expanding pool of wealthy individuals.
According to industry analysts, clients in this segment increasingly expect tailored cover that extends beyond standard home and motor to include fine art, jewellery, collectibles, and family liability protections. For brokers, the ability to access packaged, specialist solutions has become an important factor in retaining and attracting high-value clients.
By combining scale and expertise, the partnership between DUAL and Hiscox positions both companies to capture more of this growth and compete more effectively with existing HNW providers such as AIG, Aviva and Allianz. It also signals continued appetite for insurer–MGA collaborations in Ireland, where distribution through brokers remains the dominant channel.
The deal, both companies said, reflects a shared commitment to raising standards in underwriting quality, service delivery, and innovation for Ireland’s high-net-worth individuals and families.
