UAE’s ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) families are among the most forward-looking globally when it comes to integrating artificial intelligence and digital assets into their wealth strategies, according to new research by Standard Chartered Global Private Bank.
The study, titled “The Great Repositioning”, found that 71 per cent of UAE families believe they should strategically invest in digital assets such as cryptocurrencies, NFTs or tokenised traditional assets, compared with 69 per cent globally.
It also showed that 75 per cent of respondents in the UAE trust AI tools to support wealth decisions, reflecting a growing comfort with integrating technology into family wealth management, provided that human advisers remain involved in major decisions.
Vinay Gandhi, Global Head of South Asian Community and Regional Head of Europe, Middle East and Africa, Private Banking said: “Family offices in the UAE are embracing technology in a way that reflects both vision and discipline. They see digital assets and AI not as speculative tools, but as integral components of a more connected, efficient and resilient wealth ecosystem. The combination of strong governance and forward-looking innovation positions the UAE as one of the most dynamic private wealth hubs globally.”
The research surveyed more than 300 UHNW families and advisers across key wealth hubs including Singapore, Hong Kong, China, the UAE, India, Africa, and London. It found that UAE family offices are pairing innovation with strong governance frameworks. Ninety-six per cent of UAE respondents said they regularly review and optimise their family office governance structures, compared with 94 per cent globally, while an equal proportion have formal conflict-resolution processes in place, compared with 92 per cent globally.
Over 67 per cent of UAE family offices report active or extensive involvement of successors in wealth and investment decisions which is a higher engagement rate than many global counterparts. Younger generations are increasingly driving discussions around digital diversification, sustainability and impact investing, reshaping wealth stewardship models across the region.
Philanthropy also remains central to UAE families’ approach to wealth. The report said 88 per cent of respondents prefer contributing to national or international causes, compared with 80 per cent globally, while 92 per cent report full family alignment on philanthropic priorities, versus 83 per cent globally.
The study further found that 92 per cent of UAE family offices believe better cross-border succession planning could save their families millions of dollars during the next inheritance transition, compared with 83 per cent globally underscoring the emphasis on structured, long-term wealth management.
Vinay added: “As global wealth continues to evolve, the UAE’s combination of innovation, intergenerational engagement and governance discipline is setting a new standard for how families manage and preserve prosperity. By blending technological adoption with long-term purpose, UAE family offices are not only preparing for the future — they are helping define it.”
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