A new survey reveals 70.8% of UAE investors would trust AI for wealth management, highlighting rising digital adoption and unmet expectations.
DUBAI: A newly released survey commissioned by Alpheya has revealed that over 70% of UAE investors are ready to trust artificial intelligence (AI) in managing their investments, marking a significant shift in investor sentiment toward digital financial solutions. The study, conducted between May and July 2025, covered 509 UAE-based investors across various age groups, experience levels, and income brackets, including both high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and retail investors.
According to the findings, 70.8% of participants expressed confidence in using AI to manage their portfolios, while 73% said they would consider using AI as an alternative to traditional human financial advisors. This high level of trust points to strong appetite for digital transformation in the wealth management sector.
However, the survey also highlighted gaps in existing digital services. Only 52% of HNWIs reported satisfaction with current offerings, and this figure dropped to 37% among retail investors. Furthermore, 40% of all respondents indicated that their product needs were not being met, suggesting that digital platforms still fall short of providing seamless, tailored experiences.
Despite the enthusiasm for AI, nearly half of those surveyed still rely on family members for investment decisions, underlining the continuing importance of personal relationships, trust, and contextual advice in financial planning.
Commenting on the findings, Roger Rouhana, CEO of Alpheya, stated, “The UAE has consistently positioned itself at the forefront of technological innovation, and these findings confirm that investor sentiment is aligned with the country’s forward-looking vision.”
He added that the future lies in integrating AI with human insight, noting, “The most effective solutions will be those where AI augments human advisors rather than replacing them entirely.”
The survey underscores a critical moment in the evolution of digital wealth management in the UAE. With frameworks from ADGM and DIFC, and national initiatives such as the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031, the country is well-placed to lead in offering integrated, intelligent, and trusted financial platforms.
