Unstoppable Dubai! The World's Favourite Destination
Dubai has become a destination where everyone dreams of going. In today’s time, visiting Dubai is a big dream for many people. People from all over the world come to Dubai and wish to spend time there. Many have even bought homes in Dubai.
Dubai is a place where all modern facilities are available. Let me share some interesting facts about Dubai with you.
Dubai has once again been named the world’s No.1 destination for Greenfield Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects, holding this top position for the fourth year in a row. This ranking comes from the Financial Times Ltd.’s ‘fDi Markets’ data, highlighting Dubai’s continued success in attracting global investments.
Record-Breaking FDI Growth in 2024
In 2024, Dubai attracted AED 52.3 billion ($14.24 billion) in FDI capital, marking a 33.2% increase from AED 39.26 billion ($10.69 billion) in 2023. This is the highest FDI value recorded for the emirate since 2020.
Dubai also saw a record number of 1,117 Greenfield FDI projects in 2024, the highest in its history. The total number of announced FDI projects reached 1,826, an 11% rise from 1,650 in 2023. Additionally, these investments created 58,680 new jobs, a 31% increase from the 44,745 jobs generated in 2023.
Leadership and Vision Driving Success
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, credited this achievement to the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
“Dubai’s ability to remain the top global destination for foreign direct investment is proof of our commitment to offering value to investors worldwide,” said Sheikh Hamdan. He emphasized that Dubai continues to grow and evolve, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the city’s economy by 2033 and make it one of the top three urban economies in the world.
Despite global economic challenges, Dubai has remained a strong hub for investment, business, and talent. Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the city’s world-class infrastructure, stable economy, and business-friendly environment as key factors in its success.
Dubai’s Rise in Global FDI Rankings
Dubai improved its global standing in several key FDI categories:
Ranked No.1 worldwide for Greenfield FDI projects.
Ranked No.4 globally for Greenfield FDI capital, moving up from No.5 in 2023.
Ranked No.3 globally for jobs created through FDI, up from No.4 in 2023.
Ranked No.1 in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) for Greenfield FDI capital and jobs.
Dubai attracted talent across multiple industries, including business services, IT, real estate, transportation, finance, industrial equipment, and consumer products.
For the third consecutive year, Dubai was ranked No.1 globally in attracting FDI Headquarter (HQ) projects, with 50 projects in 2024.
Factors Driving Dubai’s FDI Growth
Dubai’s business-friendly policies, strong infrastructure, and strategic location have made it an attractive destination for investors. The Dubai Economic Agenda D33 has played a key role in driving investment and economic growth. Dubai holds a 6.2% global market share in Greenfield FDI and accounts for 55% of the Middle East’s total Greenfield FDI projects.
According to Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Dubai’s success is due to strong leadership, economic strength, and a future-focused investment strategy. He emphasized that Dubai will continue to attract businesses and entrepreneurs through innovation, digital infrastructure, and strategic global partnerships.
Top Investment Sectors and Countries
In 2024, the top five source countries for FDI into Dubai were:
India (21.5% of total FDI capital)
United States (13.7%)
France (11%)
United Kingdom (10%)
Switzerland (6.9%)
The top five sectors by FDI capital were:
Hotels and tourism (14%)
Real estate (14%)
Software and IT services (9.2%)
Building materials (9%)
Financial services (6.8%)
The top five sectors by FDI projects were:
Business services (19.2%)
Food and beverages (16.5%)
Software and IT services (14.3%)
Textiles (9.6%)
Consumer products (8.3%)
Dubai also saw a rise in venture capital-backed FDI (39%) and reinvestments (98%), reflecting investors’ confidence in the emirate.
Positive Outlook for 2025
Despite global economic uncertainties, Dubai is expected to continue attracting significant FDI, particularly in high-tech and innovation-driven sectors. Its favorable regulations, strong investor incentives, and stable economy make it a prime destination for global investors.
With a vision focused on innovation, sustainability, and business growth, Dubai is set to maintain its position as a global leader in foreign direct investment in the years ahead.