For decades, the lists compiled by financial magazines and wealth-research firms included a few names that seemed immovable: the Rockefellers, the Rothschilds, and the oil dynasties of the Gulf states — families whose names became synonymous with extreme wealth and the power that comes with it. But in recent years, even the very top of the rankings has begun to shift. More and more analysts now attempt to measure the fortunes of the world’s wealthiest clans with increasing precision, using different methodologies, data sets, and research filters.

At least ten major specialized lists circulate today — from Bloomberg, Forbes, and the Financial Times to Wealth-X, Credit Suisse’s Global Wealth Report, and The Wall Street Journal — and they often disagree, both in ranking and in total amounts.

It is intriguing, then, to present the average list: one that draws from all available sources, weighs all data points (such as whether sovereign wealth funds of Gulf royal families are included, or whether large fortunes are fragmented among heirs pursuing independent business paths), and ultimately lands closest to the truth.

The 10 Richest Families in the World

1. The Walton Family, USA — $432 billion

The unshakable No.1 on every wealth list. Walmart — the ultimate retail behemoth in the U.S. and abroad — was founded in 1962 by Sam Walton in Arkansas. His vision of low prices, mass distribution, and relentless expansion permanently changed the global retail landscape. Today, the three primary heirs (Rob, Jim, and Alice Walton) control more than 80% of the company. Their family fortune in 2025 is estimated at $432 billion.

2. The United Arab Emirates’ Ruling Family — $324 billion

The Al Nahyan family, a branch of the Bani Yas tribal confederation, has ruled Abu Dhabi since the 18th century. Their wealth is tied to oil, sovereign wealth funds, and vast global investments. A key historic figure was Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE in 1971. Today, the family is led by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ). Their estimated 2025 wealth: $324 billion.

3. The Arnault Family, France — $190.9 billion

The Arnaults are the global symbol of luxury. Bernard Arnault — who studied engineering before acquiring Christian Dior in 1984 — laid the foundation for the LVMH empire. Since becoming chairman and CEO in 1989, he has transformed LVMH into a luxury colossus with over 75 brands (Louis Vuitton, Dior, Tiffany & Co., Sephora, and more). The family controls 48% of shares and 64% of voting rights. Estimated 2025 wealth: $190.9 billion.

4. The Al Thani Family, Qatar — $173 billion

The Al Thani dynasty has ruled Qatar since the mid-19th century, drawing enormous wealth from natural gas and oil reserves. Since the 1990s, the family has expanded aggressively into global assets, real estate, and media. The founder of modern Qatar was Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani. Today’s leader is Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Family wealth in 2025 is estimated at $173 billion.

5. The Hermès Family, France — $171 billion

The Hermès legacy began in 1837, when Thierry Hermès opened a harness-making workshop in Paris. Post-WWII generations turned the company into one of the world’s leading luxury houses, maintaining strict multigenerational family control. Today’s key figures include Axel and Pierre-Alexis Dumas. Estimated 2025 wealth: $171 billion.

6. The Koch Family, USA — $149 billion

The Koch story begins with Fred Koch, who founded an engineering and refining company in the 1940s — a business that evolved into Koch Industries, one of the world’s largest private conglomerates. Their wealth spans petrochemicals, energy, logistics, construction, and more. After the deaths of David and Frederick Koch, Charles Koch remains the head of the family empire. Estimated 2025 wealth: $149 billion.

7. The Al Saud Family, Saudi Arabia — $140 billion

The Al Saud royal family was established in 1744 through an alliance between Mohammed bin Saud and religious leader Muhammad al-Wahhab. Their modern wealth is inseparable from Saudi Aramco and the oil fields of the Arabian Peninsula. The founder of the modern kingdom was King Abdulaziz (Ibn Saud). Today the family is led by King Salman, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) as its central power broker. Estimated 2025 wealth: $140 billion.

8. The Mars Family, USA — $134 billion

The Mars empire began in 1911 when Frank Mars created a small candy company that eventually grew into a global titan spanning confectionery, snacks, and pet-care brands. The company has remained strictly family-owned. Today’s leaders — Jacqueline, John, and Pamela Mars — manage one of America’s largest private corporations. Estimated 2025 wealth: $134 billion.

9. The Ambani Family, India — $100 billion

The Ambani dynasty was founded by Dhirubhai Ambani, who started Reliance in 1966 and grew it into a massive industrial group spanning energy, petrochemicals, and textiles. After his death in 2002, the business was divided between his sons. Mukesh Ambani, who leads Reliance Industries, has since expanded aggressively into telecom, retail, entertainment, and technology. Estimated 2025 family wealth: $100 billion.

10. The Wertheimer Family, France — $88 billion

The Wertheimer brothers, Pierre and Paul, partnered with Coco Chanel in the 1920s, funding her fashion house and ultimately retaining control. Under their descendants, the house of Chanel grew into one of the world’s most influential luxury brands. Today, brothers Alain and Gérard Wertheimer lead the company. Estimated 2025 wealth: $88 billion.