The UAE’s rising appeal - 2025 global millionaire migration trends

Property market updates | 23.05.2025 | Benham and Reeves

As we observe a shift in global economics, the United Arab Emirates is fast becoming a long-term base for residency, business and investment for some of the world’s high-net-worth individuals (HNWI).

Latest global wealth migration data suggests that almost 135,000 millionaires are expected to move base in 2025 and shift to the UAE – with nearly 6,700 interested buyers (more than any other country).

This rising number indicates a clear trend - the UAE is no longer just a luxury lifestyle hub; it can now be easily considered one of the world’s most desirable locations to reside, invest and grow wealth in.

Why millionaires choose the UAE

Around the world, many millionaires are moving bases and reevaluating where they settle down. Countries like China will lose almost 15,200 individuals, the UK will mark the exit of over 9,500 millionaires and India will record migration of nearly 4,300 individuals. This exit is mainly due to increasing taxes, political instability and tightening regulations.

The UAE is a preferred ground for a wide pool of millionaires because -

1. The investors, entrepreneurs and property buyers benefit from the Golden Visa that comes with long-term security

2. Wealth preservation and growth opportunities are abundant thanks to no personal income tax and no capital gains tax in the UAE

3. Setting up business here or taking advantage of full foreign ownership is easy thanks to the UAE’s pro-investor regulations

4. Residents benefit from world-class healthcare, excellent education opportunities, convenient connectivity to major destinations and global accessibility

Why the UAE property market is booming

The property investment boom can be credited to the UAE developers launching one project per day. Whatever your budget, preference or aesthetic — there will be plenty of options - beachfront penthouses, family villas and luxury townhouses.

Investment in the UAE is a strategic move for discerning investors as they can take advantage of -

• High rental yields of up to 10%
• Political and economic stability
• Flexible payment schemes for off-plan properties

Here’s how Benham and Reeves UAE helps

At Benham and Reeves UAE, we do more than sell real estate. We guide a global clientele through a profitable, stress-free, seamless property purchase process in Dubai. Thanks to 65+ years of real estate experience and a dedicated team of property experts, we offer our clients -

• Exclusive early access to prime units and pre-launch projects with renowned developers like Emaar, DAMAC and Nakheel
• Added benefits such as fee waivers, payment plan flexibility and service charge reductions
• End-to-end guidance which includes choosing the right property type, legal paperwork and post-purchase management

Dubai property investment opportunities await

Based on your property investment goals, whether you are eyeing a luxurious Downtown apartment, a Palm Jumeirah villa or a lucrative off-plan investment in the UAE, the Benham and Reeves team is ready to help you make a smart move.

Explore our listings here or contact us today