High-net-worth investors now account for over 75% of UAE deposits, and StashAway is responding with new semi-liquid portfolios that broaden access to private markets.

StashAway, a wealth management platform, is offering UAE-based high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) greater opportunities to build long-term wealth through private markets¹. The move follows a year of strong growth among its high-net-worth clients, with this segment driving over 75% of its growth in the UAE over the past 12 months.

The new semi-liquid offerings – private infrastructure and private equity portfolios – are managed by Hamilton Lane, a global private market specialist with over US $956 billion in assets under management. With these portfolios, investors will benefit from significantly lower minimums, lower fees, and monthly liquidity, providing flexibility than traditional funds typically lack.

StashAway’s momentum reflects a broader trend: Nearly 10,000 new millionaires are expected to arrive in the UAE by the end of 2025. As the country continues to attract global wealth, its wealth management landscape is becoming increasingly digital, with growing demand from affluent investors for alternative investment opportunities.

Increasing demand for private market investment opportunities

Globally, private markets are reshaping the investment landscape, with the number of publicly listed companies declining significantly over the past 25 years. Recent data revealed there are just 2,800 public companies, compared to 18,000 private businesses with annual revenues above US $100 million in the United States. This disparity underscores that opportunities to build wealth will increasingly be found in private markets, both in the US and worldwide.

With StashAway’s expanded private market offering, UAE-based HNWIs can tap into these growth opportunities. Clients can now access private infrastructure and private equity – an asset class with target net annual returns of 10-12%².

Michele Ferrario, Co-founder and CEO, StashAway comments, “We’ve seen tremendous demand from high-net-worth investors who value the transparency and unbiased wealth advisory that we offer. Now, we’re bringing that same trusted experience to private markets, making it simple for investors to access high-quality, institutional-class opportunities.”

In line with StashAway’s existing private markets offering, both portfolios have significantly lower minimums and fees compared to private banks. While private banks often charge up to 3.5% in total management fees, StashAway clients pay a management fee as low as 0.5%. Unlike traditional private market funds with 10 to 15 year lock-ups, StashAway’s new portfolios allow investors to access their capital after a short initial lock-up period – offering greater flexibility as their financial goals evolve.

Raaed Sheibani, UAE Country Manager, StashAway adds, “A diversified portfolio with exposure to private markets is vital for high-net-worth investors seeking to build long-term wealth. But many clients tell us that high minimums and long lock-ups of traditional private market funds make it hard to get started or maintain the right allocation. We’re committed to making these opportunities more accessible. Our semi-liquid offering does exactly that – providing flexible access without tying investors into multi-year lock-ups.”

Both portfolios offer multi-manager & sector diversification through a single investment. The Private Infrastructure portfolio provides exposure across sectors such as energy, transport, digital networks, and utilities. The Private Equity portfolio is diversified across private equity life stages, geographies, and vintages.

Historically, both asset classes have outperformed public equities, while simultaneously experiencing lower volatility. As an example, a 10% private infrastructure allocation to a traditional 60/40 portfolio from 2014 to 2024 would have increased returns by 5.3% and reduced volatility by 10.6%. They are therefore essential to strengthening long-term portfolios.

These portfolios reflect StashAway’s broader commitment to simplifying access to the best investment solutions. They expand the platform’s suite of HNW offerings, which also includes Private Credit and unbiased wealth advisory for StashAway Reserve clients.

Emirates Development Bank (EDB), the UAE’s leading national development bank driving economic diversification and industrial growth, has premiered its groundbreaking documentary, The Multiplier Effect, at an exclusive VIP screening at Cinema Akil. The film marks a new chapter in financial storytelling, highlighting the inspiring human stories behind the nation’s economic transformation.

Developed in partnership with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT)’s ‘Make it in the Emirates’ initiative and the Ministry of Economy and Tourism’s ‘Startup Capital of the World’ national initiative, the documentary offers an intimate look at how strategic support creates a ripple effect of progress across society. It follows the inspiring stories of three entrepreneurs who, with EDB’s support, have overcome immense personal and professional challenges to build businesses in the UAE. By showcasing these real journeys of resilience and innovation, the film aims to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs to take bold steps in building the UAE’s entrepreneurial nation.

Through a partnership with STARZPLAY, the documentary will be streamed to audiences across the region, with its public launch set for December 2nd, a tribute to the UAE’s visionary leadership and national spirit.

The premiere was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, and other government partners, as well as senior executives from STARZPLAY, alongside EDB partners from the public and private sectors, entrepreneurs from the industrial ecosystem, and leading media representatives.

H.E. Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Development Bank, said: “The Multiplier Effect highlights the people and ideas driving the UAE’s economic transformation. At EDB, our mission is straightforward: when we finance growth, the nation grows. Every business we support contributes to jobs, innovation, and long-term value for the country. This film shows that impact clearly. By backing ambitious founders and working closely with our government and partners, we are strengthening the foundations of a diversified and future-ready economy.”

As the UAE’s national development bank, EDB plays a critical role in advancing the country’s economic diversification agenda and supporting the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology. The documentary highlights how EDB’s support and financing in priority sectors, including advanced technology, food security, and healthcare, is creating a powerful multiplier effect that drives economic growth, job creation, and self-sufficiency.

H.E. Abdulaziz Al-Nuaimi, Assistant Undersecretary for Entrepreneurship and the Economic Affairs Regulatory Sector, Ministry of Economy and Tourism, said: “The UAE’s vision for economic development is fundamentally people-centric. We measure success not only by outputs, but also by the human spirit and resilience — the founders who take risks, innovate, and shape new industries. This same vision lies at the core of the ‘Startup Capital of the World’ campaign. It is not just about numbers or rankings; it is primarily about fostering a culture where entrepreneurship becomes a natural and celebrated path for the UAE’s youth. When government, financial institutions, investors, and industry work seamlessly together, entrepreneurs gain the confidence to take bold steps. The stories featured in this film show exactly what that ecosystem makes possible, and how it inspires many more to contribute to a diversified, future-ready economy.”

The documentary features:

• Rashid Al Sulmi, the founder of SULMI, who risked his family’s legacy to build the UAE’s first electric motorbike from scratch in his garage. SULMI is a graduate of the Make it in the Emirates Accelerator, launched in partnership with MoIAT earlier this year at the Make it in the Emirates 2025 event.
• Bodour Al Tamimi,the founder of Pure Soil, a mother who turned her battle with autoimmune disease into a thriving organic food business, proving that world-class, healthy products can be made in the UAE. Pure Soil is also a graduate of the Make it in the Emirates Accelerator.
• Hiba Orfahli, a cancer survivor who, just weeks before her wedding, found hope in a pioneering, scarless surgical procedure at Oriana Hospital in Sharjah – a healthcare facility supported by EDB – enabling her to start a family.

Since launching its strategy in 2021, EDB has provided more than AED 22.6 billion in total financing, created over 38,000 jobs, and contributed over AED 10 billion to the UAE’s industrial GDP.

Beyond financing, EDB plays a pivotal role in building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that empowers businesses to scale and succeed. Through initiatives like the AGRIX Accelerator and Make it in the Emirates Accelerator, EDB provides entrepreneurs with strategic mentorship, technical expertise, market access, and connections to a network of partners and resources. This holistic approach ensures that entrepreneurs and growing businesses receive not just finance, but the comprehensive support needed to transform ambitious ideas into globally competitive enterprises that drive the UAE’s industrial future.

Beyond documenting success, “The Multiplier Effect” serves as a powerful call to action for aspiring entrepreneurs across the UAE and beyond. Each story demonstrates that with the right support, determination, and ecosystem, ambitious ideas can transform into world-class businesses that create jobs, advance industries, and inspire others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. “The Multiplier Effect” will be available for public viewing on December 2nd. EDB encourages all media partners to embed the full documentary to share these inspiring stories with the world and fuel the entrepreneurial spirit that is building the UAE’s future.

Georgia’s capital Tbilisi is gearing up to host the Global Investors Forum (GIF 2025), one of the world’s leading economic platforms designed to strengthen cooperation between GCC countries and Eurasia through a unified investment ecosystem that accelerates growth, deepens economic ties, and expands cross-border investment opportunities.

GIF 2025 is organised in strategic partnership with EurAsia Gulf and the International Chamber of Commerce in Georgia (ICC Georgia), with AGI Holding serving as the main partner. The forum is also supported by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and, Embassy of Georgia to the UAE, and the Hong Kong–Middle East Business Chamber.

The forum, a premier investment platform, is a major international gathering that connects global capital with promising investment opportunities across the world. Through a unified investment ecosystem, GIF brings together governments, investors, and international economic institutions under a shared vision of collaboration and sustainable growth.

The two-day event will include panel discussions, investment showcases, and high-level business matchmaking sessions, bringing together more than 1,500 participants, 70 institutional investors, and 50 international speakers from over 40 countries. Taking place from 4 to 5 December 2025, GIF 2025 will focus on five key sectors: sustainability and technology, tourism, digital assets and securitisation, real estate and infrastructure, agricultural technology (Agri-tech) and food security.

The forum, marking a major economic turning point for Georgia and the wider region, will witness the launch of strategic partnerships and the signing of major international Memoranda of Understanding between government and private investment institutions from various Arab and foreign countries, including the GCC countries. These agreements aim to create cross-border financing and cooperation channels in vital sectors such as clean energy, sustainable technologies, medical tourism, smart infrastructure, and digital agriculture as key areas for investment.

The event will feature high-profile participation from leading international economic figures, including H.E. Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council (UAE); H.E. Hamid Mohammed bin Salem, Secretary-General of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FCCI UAE); With the attendance of H.E Aisha Mohammed Saeed Al Mulla, Chairwoman of the UAE Businesswomen Council, along with a delegation from the Council; Dr Taysir Al Khunaizi, Partner and Deputy CEO of the Georgia Saudi Investment Corporation; and Dr Sadeddine Mneimne, Chairman of AGI Holding and Founder of the Global Investors Forum.

Also taking part are a distinguished group of global leaders, among them Aref bin Ali Al Abbar, President of the Hobbies Club in the United Arab Emirates, and Arif Anis, internationally recognised leadership expert and recipient of the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE); John W.H. Denton, Secretary-General of the International Chamber of Commerce; Chamas Awad, Founder and CEO of Euro Gulf Consulting and adviser to the Belgian Royal Family; and Hani Idris, Board Member of the International Development Bank (IDB).

They will be joined by senior investors, ministers, and heads of major economic institutions, sovereign wealth funds and multinational corporations, as well as delegations from more than 40 countries, all convening under the theme: “Bridges Between Continents – From the GCC to Eurasia: Investing in the Future of Global Prosperity.”

Speaking on the occasion, His Excellency Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council – UAE, said: “The links between investment and sustainability are growing stronger amid rising global risks such as climate change, and resource depletion. By integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, investors are seeking to reduce their exposure to volatile assets and strengthen long-term resilience. Green technologies, renewable energy, and nature-positive infrastructure have become increasingly attractive areas for capital, while AI-driven tools now support climate scenario modelling and help optimise investment portfolios. Sustainability is no longer merely an ethical choice; it has become a financial strategy for navigating environmental uncertainty.”

He added that the international forum aligns with the needs of the future, bringing together investors, decision-makers, policymakers, and academics under one roof to demonstrate the world’s ability to adapt and navigate all these mounting challenges.

Dr Sadeddine Mneimne, Founder of the Global Investors Forum and Chairman of AGI Holding, said: “The Global Investors Forum is not just a conference, it is a strategic economic platform reshaping the map of global cooperation by connecting the GCC with Eurasia through a unified framework for investment and partnership.” He underscored as saying as: “The upcoming edition of the forum in Tbilisi will mark a pivotal turning point in strengthening economic integration between East and West. It will catalyse a new wave of cross-border investments and open unprecedented opportunities for global capital. The forum aims to foster long-term partnerships between governments, international institutions, and the private sector, reinforcing global economic cooperation and redefining the investment landscape across the region.”

Arif Anis, recipient of the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), said: “It is a great honour to participate as a keynote speaker at the Global Investors Forum 2025, at a time when global capital is experiencing significant turbulence, with foreign direct investment slowing and funding for vital projects declining by 26%. This is precisely why Dr Sadeddine Mneimne’s vision stands out as exceptional, he is not simply organising a conference but boldly confronting an unsettled economic reality with clarity and bravery.

He added: “The GIF will explore the future of global finance, as 130 countries move towards digital currencies, alongside the accelerating artificial intelligence revolution, which has attracted 37% of global investment capital.  The forum will bring together more than 1,000 industry leaders at precisely the right time and in the right place, to launch through the major conversations that will shape the decade ahead.”

John W.H. Denton, Secretary-General of the International Chamber of Commerce, said: “In a time of uncertainty and disruption, the private sector has a critical role to play in driving the investments that help economies and communities thrive. As the voice of business representing over 45 million companies across 170 countries, our mission to make business work for everyone, every day, everywhere has never been more urgent.”

The forum represents a significant step forward in advancing international cooperation between emerging markets and global investors. By hosting GIF 2025, Georgia aims to reinforce the importance of economic collaboration in connecting the Middle East with Europe and Central Asia. UAE-Georgia economic relations have been experiencing rapid growth, with both countries enjoying increasing trade and investment flows in recent years, supported by major investment agreements exceeding USD 6 billion in development and infrastructure projects. Recent data shows that the UAE now accounts for more than 63 percent of Georgia’s total trade with Arab countries, while its investments in Georgia represent 5 percent of its total foreign trade investment (FDI), placing the UAE as Georgia’s sixth-largest global investor.

GIF 2025 is expected to yield a series of major investment agreements valued at hundreds of millions of dollars, with a strong emphasis on advancing green projects and financing innovation in renewable energy and digital infrastructure. These anticipated outcomes will further solidify the UAE’s position as a global economic hub connecting GCC markets with Europe and Asia and strengthen its influential presence within the new global economic landscape.