Gulf News and CUSP Wealth to Organise Financial Literacy Forum in Dubai on October 29.
For many UAE residents, real estate has traditionally been one of the most popular ways to build long-term wealth. However, an increasing number of investors are now exploring opportunities beyond property to grow their savings and diversify their portfolios.
While real estate continues to play a significant role in wealth creation across the country, investment options such as US and international stocks, fixed-income instruments, technology-related investments and alternative assets are attracting greater interest.
Professionals, business owners and individual investors are increasingly considering these opportunities as they look to spread financial risk, strengthen their portfolios and develop more resilient long-term investment strategies.
Digital platforms reshape investment habits in the UAE
The growing popularity of digital investment platforms is playing an important role in changing how UAE residents manage their finances.
According to figures published in 2026 by trading platform Dealing, more than 60 per cent of UAE consumers actively use digital financial services.
The data also indicates that approximately 70 to 75 per cent of investors prefer mobile-first investment platforms, highlighting the increasing demand for convenient, technology-driven financial solutions.
Investor confidence also appears to remain strong.
According to eToro’s UAE Retail Investor Beat survey, conducted among 1,000 residents in August 2026, 71 per cent of retail investors intend to increase their investments over the next 12 months.
These findings reflect growing interest in financial markets and investment opportunities beyond traditional asset classes.
Dubai forum to explore investment opportunities for 2027
The changing investment landscape will be the central theme of Beyond Property: Where to Invest and Grow Your Wealth in 2027, an event organised by Gulf News in association with CUSP Wealth.
The forum will take place on October 29, from 10am to 1pm, at the Conference Hall, Gulf News, Dubai Investments Park 2 (DIP 2), Dubai.
Designed for digitally engaged UAE residents, the event aims to provide insights for both existing investors and individuals preparing to take their next steps in financial planning.
Industry speakers will discuss emerging investment trends, the reasons behind increasing portfolio diversification and the key factors investors should consider before committing their money.
Discussions will cover a broad range of investment categories, including:
- US and international equity markets
- Shariah-compliant and conventional investment products
- Fixed-income opportunities
- Technology-focused investments
- Alternative asset classes
- Portfolio diversification and risk management
- Investment liquidity, asset valuations and market volatility
The sessions will also examine how these factors can influence long-term wealth-building strategies.
UAE investors increasingly looking beyond real estate
Ramesh Murthy, Senior Executive Officer at CUSP Wealth, believes the UAE is entering a new phase of investment and wealth management.
“The UAE is entering a new chapter of wealth building. Looking to 2027 and beyond, I believe we’ll see more investors diversifying beyond property into global markets, more demand for Shariah-compliant investments, and AI becoming part of everyday investing, with human guidance still central to big decisions,” he said.
Murthy also highlighted how technological developments and broader market access are making investment opportunities available to a wider audience.
“The biggest shift is that serious investing is becoming accessible to everyone. I hope attendees leave with a clearer picture of where wealth is heading, and the confidence to plan for it themselves.”
What attendees can expect from the forum
The event will begin with a keynote presentation examining the investment outlook for 2027 and the developments that could influence financial markets.
This will be followed by a panel discussion exploring potential investment opportunities across different asset classes.
Panellists will assess the opportunities and risks associated with various investments while examining how diversification can support long-term financial objectives.
A dedicated spotlight session will focus on practical portfolio-building strategies for 2027.
Participants will learn about important considerations when developing an investment plan, including establishing financial goals, identifying suitable investment time horizons and understanding their individual risk tolerance.
The programme will also feature a presentation on the growing role of technology in wealth management.
This session will explore how digital investment platforms, wider access to global markets and technological innovations are changing the ways individuals invest, monitor and manage their portfolios.
With UAE residents showing increasing interest in diversified investments and digital financial services, the forum aims to provide participants with a clearer understanding of the opportunities, risks and considerations involved in building wealth beyond property.
The event will conclude with an interactive question-and-answer session, giving attendees an opportunity to engage directly with industry experts. This will be followed by lunch and a networking session, allowing participants to exchange ideas and build professional connections.
