The CII has reached an agreement in principle with Zurich International Life, Middle East, to provide examinations for their entire direct sales force. It said the deal was the first of its kind for the region.
It said the Zurich sales force, together with selected partners and associates, would sit the CII's International Certificate for Financial Advisers.
Zurich is also looking at using the CII's online competence assessment tool, Financial Assess, said the CII.
CII international development manager, Paul Brierley, said: "Consumers have a growing expectation that their financial advisers should have the requisite skills and demonstrate a professional approach. In this respect, Zurich is taking a clear lead."
