UAE family offices turn to AI and digital assets

By Vriti Gothi

Ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) families in the UAE are emerging as global leaders in the adoption of digital assets and artificial intelligence (AI) within their wealth management strategies, according to a new report by Standard Chartered Global Private Bank. The study, titled “The Great Repositioning,” surveyed more than 300 UHNW families and advisers across global wealth hubs, including Singapore, Hong Kong, China, the UAE, India, Africa and London, to understand how family offices are redefining wealth creation, preservation and legacy.

The findings reveal that 71% of UAE families believe they should strategically invest in digital assets such as cryptocurrencies, NFTs or tokenised traditional assets, slightly higher than the global average of 69%. This indicates a strong inclination toward digital diversification and a willingness to explore new forms of value creation in an increasingly connected economy.

In addition to digital assets, UAE families are demonstrating growing confidence in artificial intelligence. 75% of respondents said they trust AI tools to support wealth decisions, provided that human advisers remain part of major judgment calls. This reflects a sophisticated approach to integrating technology into private wealth management — one that blends innovation with prudence.

Vinay Gandhi, Global Head of South Asian Community and Regional Head of Private Banking, EMEA, at Standard Chartered, said, “The UAE’s family offices are setting a benchmark for balanced innovation. 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.”

Governance remains central to this approach. The report notes that 96% of UAE respondents regularly review and optimise their family office governance frameworks, compared with 94% globally, while an equal proportion have formal conflict-resolution processes in place. These measures underscore the UAE’s commitment to managing complexity with confidence and ensuring that innovation is supported by structure and accountability.

The study also highlights the increasing involvement of the next generation in wealth management decisions. Over 67%of UAE family offices report active or extensive participation of successors in investment strategies, signalling a generational shift in leadership. Younger family members are driving conversations around digital diversification, sustainability and impact investing, reshaping how wealth stewardship is defined in the modern era.

Philanthropy continues to be a defining element of UAE families’ wealth philosophy. 88% of respondents said they prefer contributing to national or international causes, compared to 80% globally, while 92% report complete family alignment on philanthropic priorities. This shared sense of purpose reflects a commitment to aligning wealth with broader societal goals.

As the global financial landscape shifts, the UAE’s UHNW families stand out for their ability to combine innovation with intent. Their readiness to embrace AI, digital assets and robust governance demonstrates how the region is shaping the future of private wealth one built on foresight, balance and purpose.