A Surge in Global Wealth Migration
In a rapidly shifting global economy, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is emerging as the top destination for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). According to the latest Henley & Partners Private Wealth Migration Report, the UAE is expected to see a net inflow of 9,800 millionaires in 2025, the highest globally.
This milestone cements the UAE’s status as a strategic hub for wealth, lifestyle, and financial security—surpassing traditional wealth magnets like the UK, USA, and Singapore.
Why the Rich Are Moving to the UAE
Wealth migration trends are being fueled by a combination of economic uncertainty elsewhere and pro-business reforms in the UAE. Many of the new arrivals are exiting legacy markets like the UK and Asia in search of better legal structures, tax efficiency, and long-term stability.
According to St. James’s Place Middle East, a FTSE-listed wealth advisory firm, the shift reflects changing priorities among the global elite. Their clients are increasingly choosing the UAE to establish family offices, safeguard wealth, and diversify investment portfolios.
Growth of DIFC and ADGM: The Twin Financial Engines
One of the most compelling reasons for this migration is the rise of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). These twin financial hubs offer:
In just one year, DIFC saw a 33% increase in family offices, 51% increase in foundations, and 50% surge in hedge funds. With 120 family offices now managing over $1.2 trillion in assets, the UAE is firmly on the radar of elite investors.
As economist Dr. Bhaskar Dasgupta, Chairman of Apex Boards for the Middle East and India, notes:
“The UAE’s strategic location, deep capital pools, English common law system, and world-class infrastructure make it uniquely positioned to lead this global shift.”
Legal Certainty: A Game-Changer for Global Families
The UAE has also introduced secular personal status laws covering marriage, divorce, and inheritance, making it a secure jurisdiction for family wealth planning. This legal clarity has attracted global families seeking stability and multi-generational asset protection.
According to Sunita Singh-Dalal, Partner at Hourani:
“The UAE’s new legal structures have been instrumental in attracting global families. It’s more than just tax advantages—it’s about long-term legacy planning.”
Innovation, Tech, and Tax Efficiency
Despite the 2023 introduction of corporate tax, the UAE remains highly attractive due to its:
Low personal income tax (0%)
Thriving fintech and AI ecosystem
Pro-business regulations
Strong digital infrastructure
Global investment firms like BlackRock and Goldman Sachs are actively expanding their presence in the Emirates, signaling global confidence in the UAE’s financial trajectory.
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Ras Al Khaimah: The Emerging Star
While Dubai and Abu Dhabi remain dominant, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is gaining ground as a rising hotspot for investment and lifestyle migration. The upcoming Wynn Resort—set to be the region’s first regulated gaming destination—is expected to significantly boost investor interest.
A recent Knight Frank study revealed that 46% of global HNWIs now consider RAK a top-tier investment destination. Among wealthy expats already living in the UAE, that number jumps to 80%.
RAK also offers attractive business environments through RAKEZ and RAKICC, with low setup costs and high-quality lifestyle infrastructure.
Golden Visa Reforms: Welcoming the Future
The UAE’s Golden Visa program has undergone significant changes, expanding its reach to new groups such as:
Luxury yacht owners
Medical professionals
Content creators
Entrepreneurs
Senior executives
In the last nine months alone, five new sponsor-free visa categories have been introduced, signaling the government’s proactive approach to attracting talent and capital.
Visionary Planning: Dubai Social Agenda 33
The Dubai Social Agenda 33, backed by Dh208 billion, aims to promote social cohesion, family development, and generational prosperity. It represents a long-term commitment to positioning the UAE not just as a business hub, but as a permanent home for the world’s elite.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
165,000 millionaires are projected to migrate globally in 2025
The UK will lose 16,500 HNWIs
The UAE will gain 9,800 — primarily from Beijing, London, Mumbai, and Moscow
As Dominic Volek, Head of Private Clients at Henley & Partners, puts it:
“Wealth migration has shifted from being an emergency backup to a core planning tool. And the UAE has emerged as one of the most effective platforms to execute that strategy.”
Final Thoughts: UAE Is Shaping the Future of Wealth
The UAE is no longer just a luxury haven—it’s becoming a strategic base for wealth creation, protection, and succession. With its powerful legal reforms, visa innovation, and advanced financial infrastructure, the country is setting a global benchmark for high-net-worth migration.
Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or part of a legacy family, there has never been a better time to explore real estate opportunities in the UAE.
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