Dubai and Abu Dhabi Rank Among World’s Top Five Wealth Destinations, Says Savills Report
With Dubai crowned the world’s top city for the wealthy and Abu Dhabi securing fifth place, the UAE emerges as a global powerhouse blending prosperity, innovation, and world-class living.
Savills’ inaugural global wealth report crowns Dubai the world’s leading hub for high-net-worth individuals, with Abu Dhabi securing fifth place — reinforcing the UAE’s position as a powerhouse of prosperity, innovation, and lifestyle excellence.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have solidified their positions among the world’s most desirable cities for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), according to Savills’ inaugural Spotlight on Wealth Trends 2025 report. The comprehensive study places Dubai at the very top of the global ranking, with Abu Dhabi rounding out the top five — a powerful testament to the UAE’s growing allure as a magnet for global wealth.
The Savills HNWI Hotspot Index evaluated nearly 100 international cities across five key criteria: business environment, family infrastructure and cost, legacy planning, lifestyle, and privacy. Joining Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the top five are New York, Singapore, and Hong Kong — marking the UAE’s ascent into the ranks of the world’s most established financial and lifestyle capitals.
According to the report, both cities seamlessly combine a pro-business climate with robust legal frameworks, world-class education, and a thriving cultural and lifestyle scene. Dubai leads the world in international schooling, boasting 168 institutions, and ranks among the top ten globally for lifestyle — driven by its exceptional retail, hospitality, and entertainment sectors.
The city also shines in legacy planning, benefiting from a tax-friendly regime that imposes no inheritance, capital gains, or wealth taxes, further cementing its appeal for global investors and families alike.
Abu Dhabi, meanwhile, stands out for its infrastructure, economic competitiveness, and global connectivity. The UAE capital continues to attract strong corporate and sovereign wealth investments, positioning itself as a hub for innovation and long-term capital growth.
Kelcie Sellers, Associate Director at Savills World Research, noted:
“Globally, we’re seeing the world’s wealthy look beyond traditional financial hubs in favour of destinations that deliver lifestyle, wellbeing, and family appeal alongside business opportunity. The UAE stands out for its ability to offer all three — from excellent education and connectivity to a dynamic, forward-looking economy.”
Andrew Cummings, Head of Residential Agency at Savills Middle East, added:
“More high-net-worth individuals are viewing Dubai and Abu Dhabi as long-term homes rather than short-term investment markets. The combination of quality housing, education, healthcare, and accessibility — paired with the UAE’s stable, tax-efficient environment — makes it one of the most compelling destinations globally.”
Beyond the UAE, the report also highlights the rising momentum of Saudi Arabia and Qatar as emerging wealth destinations, propelled by ambitious infrastructure initiatives and diversification strategies under their national visions.
Ultimately, Savills’ Spotlight on Wealth Trends 2025 concludes that global wealth is becoming increasingly decentralised. As the world’s affluent seek cities offering lifestyle, stability, and global connectivity, the UAE stands at the forefront — redefining what it means to live, invest, and thrive in a modern, borderless world.
