The United Arab Emirates has become the world’s third-largest holder of sovereign wealth and public pension assets, managing a combined portfolio of USD 2.49 trillion (Dh9.17 trillion), according to the 2025 mid-year report by Global SWF, as reported by Gulf News.
The UAE now trails only the United States (USD 12.12 trillion) and China (USD 3.36 trillion) in sovereign-owned investor (SOI) assets, making it the largest in the Middle East.
Key Highlights:
- Sovereign-Owned Investor (SOI) assets include both Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs) and public pension funds, and the UAE’s high ranking reflects the performance of a robust network of government-backed investment entities.
- Leading contributors include:
- Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA)
- Mubadala Investment Company
- ADQ
- Investment Corporation of Dubai
- Alongside Emirates Investment Authority, Sharjah Asset Management, RAK Investment Authority, and Dubai World.
These institutions manage globally diversified portfolios spanning sectors such as energy, infrastructure, technology, logistics, and increasingly clean energy, AI, biotech, and sustainability.
Strategic Importance:
The UAE’s rise in the global rankings highlights its long-term economic vision, diversification beyond oil, and its use of sovereign funds to build global influence and forge strategic investment partnerships.
Global Rankings Snapshot:
- United States – USD 12.12 trillion
- China – USD 3.36 trillion
- United Arab Emirates – USD 2.49 trillion
- Japan – USD 2.22 trillion
- Norway – USD 1.9 trillion
- Canada – USD 1.86 trillion
- Singapore – USD 1.59 trillion
- Australia – USD 1.53 trillion
- Saudi Arabia – USD 1.53 trillion
- South Korea – USD 1.17 trillion
With this milestone, the UAE is set to play an increasingly influential role in shaping global capital markets through its expanding investment footprint and strategic economic planning.