Global investors are rapidly expanding their exposure to digital assets, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as one of the world’s most advanced markets. Global wealth-tech provider Avaloq, a subsidiary of NEC Corporation, released a report last week titled Avaloq Wealth Insights 2025. The report reveals that UAE investors are leading globally in crypto adoption, while wealth managers are racing to modernize their advisory systems. The study is based on surveys conducted in February and March 2025 across 15 markets, involving 3,851 investors and 456 wealth experts.
According to the report:
“Nearly two-thirds (64%) of UAE wealth managers would welcome an enhanced crypto and digital asset offering to address this growing demand.”
Avaloq added, “39% of UAE investors hold crypto and digital assets, surpassing the global average of 30%. Crypto exchange participation is also higher, with 93% of UAE investors engaging with these platforms compared to 86% globally.” The company emphasized that this growing engagement highlights the UAE’s expanding position as a digital asset hub, supported by strong policy direction and regulatory clarity. However, the report also notes that while investor demand is rising, the UAE’s wealth management sector is lagging technologically.
Adoption within traditional financial institutions remains limited, suggesting a potential service gap that could reshape the region’s wealth management model. Avaloq’s report also found that:
“Among those who have not yet invested, 51% said they would consider doing so if traditional providers offered such products.”
This presents a significant opportunity for UAE wealth managers — yet only 30% currently feel prepared to advise clients on these assets.
The data suggests that firms able to integrate crypto into regulated wealth management offerings will gain a competitive edge. With its innovation-friendly regulation, high investor confidence, and increasing wealth migration, Avaloq predicts that the UAE will continue to define the next stage of global financial growth.
