At the recent Family Office Summit in Abu Dhabi, over $500 billion in global private capital came together to chart the future of wealth. In conversation with Gulf Business, summit chair Obediah Ayton reflects on the key themes shaping this transformation — from next-gen leadership and gender equity to digital innovation and Abu Dhabi’s rising influence.
Abu Dhabi as a Global Platform
The summit reinforced what many already suspect: the UAE is emerging as the epicentre of private wealth. According to Ayton, its combination of progressive regulation, robust banking credibility, and talent density makes it a central platform for family offices worldwide. “The term ‘family office’ is more than a buzzword here,” he notes. “It’s a fast-maturing model.”
Next-Gen and Women Driving Change
The generational shift is in full swing. Younger leaders are embracing digital-native investment strategies — from AI and venture capital to ESG and sustainability. At the same time, daughters are stepping into prominent roles, challenging traditional family structures. Ayton highlights how women leaders are often more impact-driven, prioritising sustainability, long-term planning, and innovation.
The Rise of Wealth Tech
Family offices are moving beyond spreadsheets. With over 79% of next-gen investors in the region bullish on tech, firms are digitising everything from portfolio management to real-time asset valuation. “Think of a platform that tracks your home, stocks, currencies, and car — all in one place,” says Ayton. “That’s the future.”
Abu Dhabi’s Competitive Edge
As home to some of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds, Abu Dhabi offers both capital and credibility. For family offices lacking deep internal teams, these funds can de-risk investments and provide access to new sectors. Ayton believes the city’s mix of state-backed capital, infrastructure, and international compliance frameworks makes it uniquely attractive.
Why Regulation Matters
New frameworks like VARA, along with broader reforms around tax and disclosure, are ushering in an era of trust and transparency. “We’re seeing Swiss family offices relocate, and American investors buying land in Dubai,” Ayton shares. The appeal? Audited accounts, international standards, and a stable legal environment under ADGM and DIFC.
Looking Ahead
In the next five years, Ayton expects the UAE to solidify its status as a global launchpad for family offices. “The energy here is contagious,” he says. “This is a country that wants to grow, to be known — and family offices are responding to that call.”
As for the summit itself, Ayton sees it not as a transactional event, but a long-term platform. “We’re not chasing numbers or sponsors,” he says. “We’re building meaningful relationships. And that takes time.”
