UAE family offices lead global shift to AI and digital assets
Study finds Emirati ultra-wealthy families outpace global peers in adopting technology-driven wealth strategies and governance models
DUBAI, UAE (MNTV) — Ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) families in the United Arab Emirates are emerging as global frontrunners in the adoption of artificial intelligence and digital assets to enhance wealth management, according to a new report by Standard Chartered Global Private Bank.
The study, titled “The Great Repositioning,” revealed that 71 percent of UAE family offices believe they should strategically invest in digital assets — including cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and tokenized traditional assets — compared with 69 percent globally.
The research also showed that 75 percent of respondents in the UAE trust AI tools to support wealth decisions, reflecting a growing integration of technology into family office operations, while maintaining human oversight in major decisions.
Vinay Gandhi, global head of South Asian Community and Regional Head for Europe, Middle East and Africa at Standard Chartered Private Banking, said the UAE’s family offices are “embracing technology in a way that reflects both vision and discipline,” adding that they view digital assets and AI as key to building a “connected, efficient, and resilient wealth ecosystem.”
The survey covered more than 300 UHNW families and advisers across key global wealth hubs, including Singapore, Hong Kong, China, India, Africa, London, and the UAE.
It found that UAE family offices combine innovation with strong governance practices, with 96 percent regularly reviewing and optimizing governance structures — slightly higher than the global average of 94 percent.
An equal share of Emirati respondents reported having formal conflict-resolution mechanisms in place, compared with 92 percent globally.
The study also highlighted high intergenerational participation, with 67 percent of UAE families actively involving successors in wealth and investment decisions — one of the highest engagement levels globally.
Younger members are driving conversations around digital diversification, sustainability, and impact investing, reshaping the future of regional wealth stewardship.
Philanthropy continues to play a vital role, with 88 percent of UAE respondents prioritizing national or international causes, compared with 80 percent globally, while 92 percent said their families share complete alignment on philanthropic goals.
The report further revealed that 92 percent of UAE family offices believe improved cross-border succession planning could save their families millions of dollars in inheritance transitions, underscoring the focus on structured and long-term wealth preservation.
“As global wealth evolves,” Gandhi added, “the UAE’s combination of innovation, intergenerational engagement, and governance discipline is setting new benchmarks in family wealth management.
By blending technology with long-term purpose, Emirati families are not just preparing for the future — they are helping define it.”
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