The Middle East has emerged as the world’s leading region for AI investment momentum, with the UAE ranking second globally, according to the Global Wealth AI Optimism Index. The findings underline strong investor confidence and a rapid pivot towards AI-driven research across wealth management.
The UAE leads globally in “momentum” – a measure of intent to replace traditional investment research with AI – reflecting its broader push to embed AI across financial infrastructure. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are driving the region’s performance, positioning the GCC at the forefront of AI adoption in investment services.
Adoption is already widespread. More than 78% of investors surveyed use AI tools for research, with younger investors leading the shift. By 2027, AI is expected to become the primary source of investment advice, rising to around 80% usage by 2028.
As firms such as Morgan Stanley integrate AI into advisory workflows, trust and reliability will determine how quickly AI transitions from support tool to decision-maker.
Gulf Economist Staff Writer