Dubai strengthens position as global wealth hub at Family Office Summit 2025
After four incredible summits in Abu Dhabi, this inaugural edition of the Family Office Summit in Dubai exceeded expectations, welcoming 287 distinguished guests, including 62 family offices, 73 family holdings, 3 sovereign wealth funds, 18 mid-market funds, and 10 summit partners. The diverse participation underscored the event's significance in shaping the future of global wealth management.
This year's theme, 'Taking Money Out of Cash,' sparked insightful discussions on capital allocation, diversification, and strategic investment approaches. Key panels addressed leadership in century-old family businesses, cross-border investment opportunities, niche investments in private equity and credit, and the impact of emerging technologies on family office strategies.
A major highlight of the summit was the focus on next-generation leadership and the rising influence of venture capital and co-investing within family offices. Experts explored how emerging leaders are redefining governance, adapting to digital assets like cryptocurrency, and integrating sustainability into long-term investment frameworks.
With the rapid evolution of global markets, attendees gained valuable insights into risk management, compliance, and governance in the era of Family Office 2.0. Sessions also explored healthcare investments, real estate strategies, and the drive toward net-zero commitments, reflecting the growing emphasis on impact-driven wealth management.
Networking played a pivotal role, with dynamic seating arrangements, dedicated lounge areas, and carefully curated interactions fostering meaningful connections. Obediah Ayton, Founder of Dhabi Hold Co. and Chairman of the Family Office Summit, emphasized the summit's commitment to inclusivity, particularly in empowering female leadership and promoting innovation within the wealth management sector. ' The Family Office Summit has once again demonstrated the importance of building a strong, connected community of investors and family office leaders. By fostering meaningful conversations and emphasizing next-generation leadership, we are shaping the future of global wealth management,' said Ayton.
With the overwhelming success of this year's summit, anticipation is already building for the next Family Office Summit in Abu Dhabi, promising even deeper discussions and expanded opportunities for the global family office community.
About: Obediah Ayton, Director, Dhabi Hold Co
Obediah Ayton is a seasoned executive with a distinctive path that has led him across continents and industries, ultimately rooting his journey in the UAE. Born in England, Obediah pursued his studies in the United States, earning a degree in Accounting and Business Management from St. John's University in New York.
His career began with an unconventional start—working as a caddy for corporate leaders while balancing his education. This exposure quickly evolved into advisory roles with family offices, particularly through his unique insights into emerging sectors like ESports, sass, biotech and cryptocurrency.
After a period of working across the USA and the UK, Obediah's journey took him to the UAE in 2017-2018, where he aimed to build a new life and contribute to the local business landscape. Within three months, he launched his first venture in the UAE, and from there, he has never looked back. Among his achievements, he has raised capital for private equity funds with high-profile partners like Mark Bezos, developed a UAE-regulated accounting firm, and built a renowned event series recognized globally for family office gatherings.
A known talented golfer across the UAE competitive circuit, Obediah attributes much of his professional network to the relationships fostered on the golf course. His vision for the industry is deeply personal; he aims to create a legacy for his family, establishing a 'human liquidity' network that fosters collaboration, learning, and shared growth among family offices. His core drive is to make the UAE a central hub for family wealth and networking, promoting relationships and trust within the industry.
Quote:"Success will follow loyalty, and ROI will flow from friendship"
About Sandstone Media:
Sandstone Media is a forward-thinking PR, media solutions and communications agency based in the UAE that is committed to excellence and offers a spectrum of integrated services, including strategic communications, media solutions and digital innovation. Sandstone Media focuses on the transformative power of storytelling and dedicates its expert team to crafting narratives that resonate and captivate audiences.
LinkedIn | Instagram | Website
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
30-07-2025
- Zawya
ADNH positions itself for growth amid UAE tourism boom
Abu Dhabi National Hotel (ADNH) was established in 1976 and has since played an instrumental role in raising the profile of Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a global tourism hub. Over the years, ADNH has grown into a full-fledged hospitality group, delivering an extensive array of services that span hotels, restaurants, destination management, catering and transportation. It began its expansion in 1991 with the signing of its first hotel management contract. Today the company oversees operations and commercial functions for more than a dozen hotels in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ajman. Through its hotels division, ADNH plays a multifaceted role owning, operating, managing and acting as franchise manager for a wide-ranging portfolio of properties. Owned assets include some of the UAE's most iconic and prestigious hotels, such as The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, and Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort. Click here to download infographic Complementing its owned and managed assets, ADNH has a strong operator division that manages a select portfolio of hotels and hotel apartments, including the Radisson Blu Hotel Ajman, in key urban locations. Outside the traditional hospitality sphere, ADNH's diversified business interests encompass several complementary sectors. These include ADNH Catering, Em Sherif Restaurants, High Spirits stores, Al Ghazal Transport, Sunshine Travel & Tours, National Facility Management Company by ADNH, M Five Services, and Abu Dhabi National General Security Guard Co. LLC. Successful IPO of catering division In October 2024, the company floated ADNH Catering Plc, a leading food and support services provider operating in the UAE. ADNH Catering raised AED864 million (U.S.$235 million) from the sale of 900 million offer shares, representing 40% of ADNH Catering's total issued share capital. The offering attracted strong demand from both international and regional investors, being oversubscribed more than 15 times and attracting more than AED13 billion (U.S.$3.5 billion) in demand. With the final offer price (AED0.96/U.S. 0.26 per share) set at the top of the announced price range, the listing reinforced ADNH Catering's position as an established market leader in food and support services, catering to critical sectors including healthcare, education, defense and business and industry across the region. The successful listing reflects the company's strong market position, built on its established operations across key sectors in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. ADNH Catering operated around 160 on-site kitchens and delivered 11 million meals per month serving 262 clients in the year ended 30 September 2023. Its presence in Saudi Arabia is set to expand further, with planned growth in Riyadh, Jeddah and the eastern region. The listing of the catering division came after ADNH bought out Compass Group International's 50% stake in their UAE joint venture. The buyout is expected to bring in an additional net profit gain of nearly AED100 million (U.S.$27 million) for ADNH. Strategic growth drivers The UAE's tourism sector is poised for its next wave of growth. The UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, launched as part of the landmark Projects of the 50, is one of the country's most ambitious national initiatives. The strategy outlines 25 key initiatives and policies aimed at transforming the UAE into one of the world's leading travel destinations, with ambitious targets, including increasing the tourism sector's GDP contribution to AED450 billion (U.S.$123 billion) with an annual growth of AED27 billion (U.S.$7.4 billion), attracting AED100 billion (U.S.$27 billion) in additional tourism investments and welcoming 40 million hotel guests. These initiatives will boost the UAE's global competitiveness and ensure long-term, sustainable growth for its tourism industry. Investment outlook ADNH is in a strong position to take advantage of the UAE's growing tourism market and the support the tourism sector receives from the governments of both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The focus of the two flagship airlines on boosting their networks and expanding their offerings, as well as efforts to attract global commercial, economic, sporting and leisure events, and world-class infrastructure including several new landmarks such as the newly announced Disney Abu Dhabi, has made the UAE one of the world's most well-known tourism destinations. Strategic growth through targeted acquisitions The company has been eyeing strategic acquisitions. In addition to purchasing Compass Group International's 50% stakes in their JV companies, the company has expressed an interest in exploring acquisitions of strategic and opportunistic resort-based developments across high performing micro-markets. ESG leadership and community impact The company has put in place strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) measures. Seven out of 11 projects in its hotels have already begun and are on schedule, while average greenhouse gas emission intensity per economic unit decreased by 40%. The Al Ghazi Taxi fleet now includes 147 electric vehicles. The company also reported 100% compliance with all labour laws and non-discrimination policies, and 100% adherence to codes of conduct in business practices. ADNH has also expressed a commitment to adopting long-term strategies aimed at mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, in line with government policy. Hospitality market outlook As the F&B sector in the UAE and the region continues to expand due to evolving demographics and a thriving business community, ADNH Catering is well-placed to meet the rising demand and fulfil their growth strategies. This is boosted by several new landmark projects such as Yas Island tourism attractions, as well as museums and world-class retail offerings. Conclusion ADNH's diversified portfolio and strategic initiatives position it to benefit from the UAE's expanding tourism and hospitality sectors. The successful IPO of its catering division highlights investor confidence and operational strength. Against the backdrop of national tourism strategies, ADNH remains well-positioned to support and capitalise on sector-wide growth, making it a stock to watch. To find out more, visit the company's page on To invest, contact one of the ADX brokers now.
Gulf Business
04-07-2025
- Gulf Business
Branded residences: Why Dubai dominates region's market
Image credit: Betterhomes/Supplied Branded residences, luxury homes developed in collaboration with internationally recognised brands, are reshaping the global real estate landscape. Nowhere is this trend more evident than in Dubai, which has emerged as the regional and global capital of branded living. The emirate has seen an impressive 160 per cent growth in this sector over the past decade, outpacing global competitors. Read- According to a new New face of luxury living Branded residences offer more than a home, they deliver lifestyle. Originally linked to luxury hospitality groups such as Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton, the market has evolved to include a broad spectrum of global brands. Automotive titans like Mercedes-Benz and Bugatti, fashion houses like Armani and Missoni, and hospitality icons like Cipriani now lend their prestige to real estate projects. This shift signals a growing appetite for lifestyle-centric living, where buyers not only seek comfort and exclusivity, but also brand identity and curated experiences. Developers and investors alike see value in this alignment of lifestyle and real estate. Why Dubai leads: Strategic advantages of the city Dubai's rise as a global hub for branded residences is no accident. A combination of forward-thinking government policies, investor-friendly regulations, and strategic development planning has positioned the city as a magnet for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Benefits include 100 per cent foreign ownership, zero income tax, and Golden Visas, all of which bolster Dubai's appeal. 'High-net-worth buyers are no longer just looking for property. They're investing in lifestyle, brand value, and long-term growth. Dubai offers all three, and that's why it's outperforming legacy markets like London and Miami,' said Christopher Cina, director of sales at (Branded projects hotspots.-Source: Betterhomes Research) In 2024 alone, Dubai recorded the sale of 13,000 branded residences, a 43 per cent increase year-on-year, generating Dhs60bn in transactions. This accounts for 8.5 per cent of total real estate transaction value, reflecting the segment's growing market share. Buyers are willing to pay 40 per cent to 60 per cent premiums for branded properties compared to similar non-branded units, driven by the promise of luxury, quality, and long-term value. Brand collaborations fuel market growth Strategic collaborations are central to Dubai's branded real estate boom. Developers such as Binghatti (Bugatti Residences), Arada (Armani Beach Residences), and Select Group (Six Senses Residences) have formed partnerships with globally recognised luxury brands. Meanwhile, mega-developers like Emaar, Meraas, and Nakheel have designed entire districts centered around lifestyle brands, cementing Dubai's place at the forefront of the sector. These partnerships enhance marketability and offer developers and investors access to premium pricing, branding power, and buyer loyalty. (In Dirhams, Dubai buyers leading global markets with an average premium of 157 per cent for branded residences, followed by Europe at 265 per cent, Thailand at 270 per cent, and the USA at Nearly 500 per cent.- Source: Property Monitor, Knight Frank, Betterhomes Research) Outperforming global competitors When benchmarked against international cities like Miami, London, Phuket, and Madrid, Dubai offers a more balanced investment opportunity. While Aston Martin Residences in Miami fetch up to Dhs25,000 per square feet, Dubai's Bvlgari Residences sell for around Dhs10,500 per square feet, offering both value and prestige. Meanwhile, Bugatti Residences are commanding a 237 per cent premium, showing Dubai can rival or even surpass international luxury benchmarks. In contrast, cities like London impose high property taxes and complex regulations, while markets such as Spain and Thailand, although exclusive, lack the liquidity and long-term investor confidence that Dubai provides. (Projected growth of branded residences worldwide. With 25 per cent market share by 2030, the number of projects in the region will reach over 360 developments.- Source: Betterhomes Research) The Future: MENA and beyond Branded residences are not just a Dubai story—they are expanding across the Middle East and North Africa. The sector is projected to account for 25 per cent of the MENA luxury residential market by 2030, with Dubai continuing to lead the charge. With a mix of innovative branding, policy support, and investor demand, Dubai's dominance in branded real estate shows no signs of slowing. For luxury buyers and developers alike, the emirate remains the global benchmark in this evolving sector.
Khaleej Times
03-07-2025
- Khaleej Times
Dubai leads the world in branded residences with 160% growth
Dubai has established itself as the global capital for branded residences, spearheading a remarkable 160 per cent growth in this sector over the past decade, data shows. According to data from Betterhomes, a Dubai-based real estate consultancy, in 2024, Dubai recorded the sale of over 13,000 branded residences, a 43 per cent increase on the previous year generating a transaction value of Dh60 billion. This figure represents 8.5 per cent of the total real estate transaction value, highlighting the sector's growing prominence. With 140 branded real estate projects scheduled for completion by 2031, Dubai continues to lead the EMEA region as the premium market for branded residences, whether in terms of completed developments or those in the pipeline. Investors and buyers are willing to pay, on average, a 40 per cent–60 per cent premium per square foot for branded properties over their non-branded counterparts in the same locality, underscoring both their perceived value and enduring appeal. Branded residences represent a fusion of luxury real estate and globally recognised brands, providing residents with exclusive access to exceptional services and carefully curated lifestyle. While the sector was initially dominated by prestigious hospitality names such as Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton, it has since evolved to encompass a broader range of brands including automotive marques like MercedesBenz, Bentley, and Bugatti; fashion houses such as Armani and Missoni; and entertainment giants like Cipriani. This diversification signals a wider shift towards lifestyle-centric luxury real estate that redefines conventional notions of homeownership. Dubai's emergence as the epicentre of branded residences is driven by a strategic blend of progressive government policies, visionary developers, and exceptional locations. The city offers a highly attractive regulatory environment, featuring 100 per cent foreign ownership, zero income tax, and long-term Golden Visas for investors all of which significantly enhance its appeal to high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) from around the globe. Developers such as Binghatti (Bugatti Residences), Arada (Armani Beach Residences), and Select Group (Six Senses Residences) have established strategic partnerships with globally recognised brands, significantly enhancing the prestige and marketability of their developments. Meanwhile, master developers including Emaar, Meraas, and Nakheel have created iconic, brand-centric enclaves that have come to define Dubai's luxury property landscape. 'The city's unique blend of regulatory advantages, innovative brand collaborations, and exceptional real estate locations has firmly positioned it ahead of global competitors such as Miami, New York, and Phuket,' Betterhomes said. When compared to other major markets such as Miami, London, Spain, and Thailand, Dubai's luxury real estate market offers a far more compelling investment proposition. While Miami commands ultra premium prices, with Aston Martin Residences reaching Dh25,000 per square foot, a 525 per cent premium, Dubai's branded residences remain more competitively priced. For example, Bvlgari Residences, one of the most popular developments in Dubai, is priced at Dh10,500 per square foot and still delivers a 166 per cent premium, while Bugatti Residences leads at a 237 per cent premium. In London, The OWO Residences are priced at Dh20,000 per square foot, but high taxes and complex regulations dampen investor appeal. Similarly, while Spain's Lamborghini Tierra Viva and Thailand's Banyan Tree Residences offer exclusivity, they lack the investor friendly environment, liquidity, and long term growth potential that make Dubai the most attractive destination for luxury real estate investment today.
