By 2025, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are poised to become key destinations for global elites investing in luxury real estate due to attractive policies and strong economic fundamentals.

A recent report titled "Luxury Living 2025" from Altrata, supported by the Relm network, highlights the continued rise of Abu Dhabi and Dubai as premier destinations for wealthy individuals worldwide seeking luxury real estate. The allure lies in both primary residences and secondary homes, thanks to an enticing mix of attractive policies, robust economic foundations, and opulent lifestyles.

This momentum reflects the United Arab Emirates' evolution into a strategic hub for affluent individuals pursuing a blend of luxury, investment opportunities, and security within a globally competitive legislative environment and infrastructure.

Dubai's Rapid Growth

Recently joining the ranks of the top 10 cities outside the United States for second-home ownership among the wealthy, Dubai hosts 1,288 ultra-high-net-worth individuals (with assets exceeding $30 million) possessing luxurious properties. These figures are bolstered by a favorable tax environment, increasing availability of high-end branded residential projects, and initiatives like the Golden Visa program that enhance Dubai’s appeal as an investment and residential hotspot.

The report underscores these factors as contributors to noticeable growth in the number of affluent property owners and rising real estate values over recent years.

Abu Dhabi's Prestigious Projects

In contrast, Abu Dhabi stands out with its focus on large family homes within its diverse real estate portfolio. The city accommodates more than 1,100 wealthy residents-a demographic predominantly male (93%)-boasting a younger average age compared to traditional wealth centers.

Key industries in Abu Dhabi include various manufacturing sectors alongside construction and engineering services. Banking and financial services are also prominent sectors.

Abu Dhabi is experiencing expansion through upscale developments in regions such as Saadiyat Island. Additionally, major tourism projects like the proposed Disneyland resort on Yas Island highlight its growing appeal.

London Leads Outside America

Globally, London tops the list outside America with 9,221 wealthy second-home owners; it is followed by Beijing, Hong Kong, and Singapore. However, Miami leads globally as the most popular city for secondary residences among millionaires with 13,211 property holders.

The report notes that selection criteria encompass various factors including tax environments, political stability, quality of life metrics, infrastructural quality, proximity to business hubs along with residency or citizenship-by-investment programs.

Utilizing data from Wealth-X's database along with Real Estate Intelligence Site's detailed profiles on approximately 480 thousand ultra-wealthy individuals worldwide-including both primary residences and personally-owned secondary homes-the report assesses where this elite group maintains their residential footprint across global cities.