Affluent investors in the United Arab Emirates are setting a new benchmark in global wealth management, according to HSBC’s latest 2025 Affluent Investor Snapshot. The report, based on data from nearly 11,000 investors across 12 markets, reveals that UAE-based investors are demonstrating greater confidence, deeper diversification, and an accelerated shift toward alternative assets.
The HSBC study shows a clear trend: UAE investors are rapidly moving away from traditional cash holdings, allocating just 13% of their portfolios to cash—far below the global average of 20% and the lowest among all surveyed countries. This shift reflects a growing appetite for active wealth deployment in alternative investments, gold, and international markets.
Growing interest in alternatives and gold
Alternative assets such as private market funds and hedge funds are gaining ground among the UAE’s affluent. Currently, 36% of investors in the UAE hold alternative investments, up 4% from last year. Gold, long regarded as a safe haven, is also attracting increasing attention. HSBC’s findings show that 57% of UAE investors plan to invest in gold, while nearly 40% are showing interest in tokenised gold products.
Younger investors—especially those from Gen Z—are driving much of this change. Globally, Gen Z has tripled its allocation to alternatives over the past 12 months. Among all affluent investors surveyed, five in ten plan to include alternatives in their portfolios within the next year, up from just a quarter currently.
Confidence and satisfaction at record highs
UAE investors report significantly higher levels of confidence than their global counterparts:
- 86% are confident about achieving short-term goals (vs. 81% globally)
- 78% express confidence in their medium-term goals (vs. 72%)
- 85% feel assured about long-term outcomes (vs. 76%)
Satisfaction with quality of life also stands at 85% in the UAE, well above the global average of 76%.
Dinesh Sharma, Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking, Middle East, commented: “UAE investors are clearly ahead in putting their wealth to work, supported by a growing ecosystem and global exposure. They are actively building diversified portfolios that include alternative assets and international property, particularly in the US and UK.”
International ambition and tech-savvy decisions
The UAE leads all markets in global investment intent, with 56% of its affluent investors planning to expand internationally. Preferred destinations include the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany.
Digital channels and social platforms play a significant role in guiding investment decisions. Among UAE investors, 53% rely on social platforms for investment information, followed by bank digital channels (38%) and non-bank platforms (35%). However, personal trust still matters—62% consult wealth specialists and 35% turn to family members for guidance.
As the global wealth landscape evolves, UAE investors appear well-positioned to lead the next wave of strategic, diversified, and digitally informed investing.
