It’s fascinating to know that the wealthiest royal family isn’t the most influential but holds vast resources that even surpass the monarch of the United Kingdom.
These royals, who descend from powerful ancient dynasties, continue to thrive as the richest in the modern world, despite the shift towards democracy and widespread wealth distribution.
Their immense fortunes come from inherited assets, global influence, and strategic investments.
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Here are the top five royal families who have sustained their wealth through the ages:
Maha Vajiralongkorn, King of Thailand
King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand ascended to the throne in 2016 following the death of his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Having been named crown prince in 1972, he inherited the throne as the only son.
With an estimated net worth of $34 billion, he is considered the wealthiest royal in the world. His fortune includes an extensive financial portfolio, significant real estate holdings, and diverse business interests, managed by the Crown Property Bureau, which oversees the Thai royal family’s vast wealth.
Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi
Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the third President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, became the leader following the death of his brother, Sheikh Khalifa, in 2022.
With an estimated net worth of $30 billion, he is the second wealthiest royal in the world.
His wealth stems from his control over major enterprises, including Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Etihad Airways, First Abu Dhabi Bank, and investments in international firms, as well as assets like Emirates Global Aluminium and Burj Khalifa.
Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan of Brunei
Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the ruler of Brunei since 1967, ranks as the third richest royal in the world with an estimated net worth of $28 billion.
His immense wealth is largely derived from Brunei’s vast oil and gas reserves, which have been the backbone of the country’s economy for decades.
Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, King of Saudi Arabia
Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud became the King of Saudi Arabia in 2015 following the death of his half-brother, King Abdullah.
With an estimated net worth of $18 billion, he heads the House of Saud, one of the wealthiest royal families.
His wealth primarily comes from Saudi Arabia’s vast oil industry and investments in real estate, banking, and telecommunications. Previously, he served as Governor of Riyadh and Minister of Defense. Currently, King Salman is undergoing treatment for lung inflammation.
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Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum became Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, as well as Ruler of Dubai, after his brother’s passing in 2006.
His estimated net worth of $14 billion comes from investments in companies like Emirates Airlines, Dubai World, and Dubai Holding, which spans hotels, media, and business parks.
Known as the fifth richest ruler globally, he has transformed Dubai into a world hub for banking, tourism, and trade, making it a top international destination for business and leisure.
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