
In this episode, we sit down with Obediah Ayton, a leading figure in the Middle East’s investment and family office landscape, to unpack the realities of how family offices operate in the UAE. From the difference between family offices and family holdings to the nuances of communication, governance, and deal flow, Obediah shares insider perspectives you rarely hear publicly.🔑 What we cover in this episode:How family offices differ from family holdings (structure, decision-making & governance)Why UAE family offices behave differently from Western onesThe biggest challenges family offices face today — internally and in the marketHow founders, GPs & fundraisers often misread family office expectationsThe right way to communicate and build trust when approaching a UAE family officeWhat happens behind the scenes: mandates, approvals, deal filters & accessHow to authentically build relationships in the GCC family office ecosystemWhether you’re a founder, GP, wealth advisor, or simply curious about how private capital really moves in this region, this episode offers rare clarity into one of the most influential (and misunderstood) parts of the investment world.✨ About the GuestObediah Ayton is an investor, advisor, and senior executive known for his extensive work with UHNW families, holding groups, and private investment offices across the Middle East, including roles shaping strategy, capital deployment, and ecosystem development.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/obediah-ayton/📍 Episode filmed at On The Road Specialty Café (https://share.google/AkC1kYAp4RfOV5DtZ), Al Quoz, Dubai, our fantastic venue partner.👉 If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more unfiltered insights into the world of private markets and family offices.#FamilyOffice #PrivateWealth #UAEInvestments #GCCCapital #UnfilteredInvestmentsDisclaimer: The views expressed in this episode are personal opinions and should not be taken as financial advice or as guidance from any specific family office.