Diverse Factors Boost Dubai's Property Investment Appeal as It Leads in Rental Yields Over Major Cities.
Dubai has emerged as a standout performer in real estate investment returns, outperforming six major global cities, including London, Paris, New York, Hong Kong, Sydney, and Singapore, according to a recent analytical study conducted by Forbes Global Properties.
The report, revealed recently, highlights Dubai's rapid advancement as a first-tier global city, establishing itself as a comprehensive global center.
Abdullah Al-Ajaji, a member of Forbes Global Properties, noted that Dubai currently offers higher returns on investment in the real estate sector compared to other global markets.
The average yields in Dubai range between 6% and over 7%, while other major cities analyzed in the report show average returns between approximately 2% to 5%.
This rise in investment yields in Dubai is attributed to several factors, including the accelerating population growth and the influx of investors from various parts of the world, particularly high-net-worth individuals from European and Asian countries.
This has resulted in a considerable increase in demand for real estate, both for buying and renting purposes.
Furthermore, the report indicates that the distinctive property trends in Dubai demonstrate a noteworthy growth in demand for luxury villas and townhouse units, which are increasingly gaining popularity within the real estate markets.
The analytical report titled 'Dubai Approaches Becoming a First-Tier Global City' seeks to measure the competitive landscape of cities against leading urban centers globally.
It concludes that Dubai's real estate market is steadily developing into a mature global hub, underscored by solid market fundamentals and increasing institutional capital flows, which position Dubai as a strategic investment destination for the long term.
In related developments, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, recently reviewed the tourism sector's contributions during a cabinet meeting.
The tourism, travel, and hospitality sectors collectively generated over 800,000 jobs in the UAE in 2023 and are forecasted to contribute more than AED 236 billion to the national economy in 2024, a representation of 11.7% of the GDP. The aim is to achieve a contribution of AED 450 billion from the tourism sector within the next six years.
Additionally, the third Capital Markets Summit in the Middle East and North Africa officially commenced in Dubai, with participation from 1,500 companies, decision-makers, and global financial leaders.
The event was opened by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, who highlighted the UAE's status as one of the world's most appealing investment destinations.
Foreign direct investments reached approximately USD 30.7 billion in 2023, and the Dubai Financial Market welcomed over 138,000 new investors in 2024, with 85% of them being foreigners.
This growth showcases the global appeal of the UAE's financial market.
The UAE's financial landscape has observed a growth rate of 8.3% in the bond market during the first quarter of 2025, surpassing USD 309 billion.
The structural reforms and robust regulatory frameworks, coupled with a pro-business environment, facilitate quick licensing and ownership processes, particularly within free zones, making the UAE an attractive option for multinational corporations and aspiring entrepreneurs.
As part of the ongoing dialogue about Dubai's economic narrative, H.E. Hala Al-Sayed, Dubai Financial Market Chairman and Director-General of the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai, engaged in discussions regarding the financial market's role in driving economic growth and enhancing investor engagement.
The discussions reflected Dubai's resilience and adaptability in a shifting global economic landscape, particularly in response to challenges posed by the
COVID-19 pandemic.
The focus on enhancing infrastructure, air travel, and port investments demonstrates Dubai's commitment to sustaining its status as a leading global hub, thereby enhancing the overall business climate and investor confidence in the region.