Countries / West Asia
Investing in United Arab Emirates
A regional financial and family-office hub built on free zones (DIFC, ADGM) with independent common-law courts, which has drawn wealthy families and fund managers from across Asia, Europe, and Africa.
- Capital
- Abu Dhabi
- Currency
- UAE dirham (pegged to the US dollar)
- Main exchange
- Dubai Financial Market (DFM) & Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)
- Regulator
- Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA); DIFC and ADGM operate as separate offshore financial free zones
How people invest in United Arab Emirates
Real estate — especially in Dubai — is the most visible asset class; gold trading has deep historical roots (the Dubai Gold Souk); family offices and private banking manage a large and growing share of regional wealth; DFM/ADX equities round out the picture.
Real estateGoldFamily officesDFM/ADX equities
Entrepreneurial families to know
Business families based in United Arab Emirates who are also active capital allocators — see the full family capital directory.
Other West Asia markets
Ready to put capital to work?
Browse platforms, banks, and funds active in West Asia, or read our start-investing guide.
Frequently asked questions
What currency does United Arab Emirates use?
United Arab Emirates uses the UAE dirham (pegged to the US dollar).
What is the main stock exchange in United Arab Emirates?
Dubai Financial Market (DFM) & Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), overseen by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA); DIFC and ADGM operate as separate offshore financial free zones.
What do people in United Arab Emirates typically invest in?
Real estate — especially in Dubai — is the most visible asset class; gold trading has deep historical roots (the Dubai Gold Souk); family offices and private banking manage a large and growing share of regional wealth; DFM/ADX equities round out the picture.