Dubai has solidified its position as a global wealth magnet, now home to more than 81,000 millionaires, as revealed in a recent report by UAE-based property consultancy Betterhomes. Titled “Dubai: No Longer a Pit Stop, But the Finish Line for Global Wealth,” the report highlights how the emirate is rapidly transforming into a strategic base for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) seeking long-term security, capital preservation, and global mobility.
A Decade of Wealth Surge in Dubai 📈
The report showcases a remarkable 102% increase in millionaire residents over the last ten years, placing Dubai among the world’s most dynamic and elite wealth hubs. According to Betterhomes CEO Louis Harding, the city’s real estate market is no longer speculative. Instead, it’s driven by strategic, long-term investment.
“We’re not just seeing wealth arrive — it’s anchoring itself here in branded residences, legacy properties, and long-lasting developments,” Harding stated. “As millionaire migration accelerates, Dubai’s property market will evolve from a cyclical play to a structural asset class. The city is now not only attracting capital but setting the standard for global residential investment.”
Centi-Millionaire Population to Double by 2035 💸
As per the ‘World’s Wealthiest Cities Report 2025’ by Henley & Partners and New World Wealth, Dubai is set to more than double its centi-millionaire population (individuals with $100 million+ in wealth) by 2035. Currently ranked 18th globally, the city is home to 81,200 millionaires, 237 centi-millionaires, and 20 billionaires.
Betterhomes suggests this movement represents more than just a real estate trend. It signifies a wider structural recalibration of global wealth flows.
“While traditional legacy cities like London, San Francisco, Paris, and Hong Kong struggle with high taxes and instability, Dubai offers rare advantages: low tax policies, a high-end lifestyle, and modern infrastructure,” the report added.
Dubai’s Wealth-Friendly Policies Drive Influx 🏙️
Dubai is increasingly recognized as a secure and flexible base for HNWIs. Unlike other markets, Dubai’s policies are designed to attract — not restrict — global wealth. These investor-friendly regulations allow individuals to safeguard their fortunes, plan legacies, and influence global economic trends from a reliable platform.
As of December 2024, the UAE ranked as the 14th largest wealth market in the world with 130,500 dollar millionaires, marking a 98% rise over the past decade.
Global Wealth Migration to Dubai 🌐
The flow of millionaires to Dubai isn’t limited to one region. From East Asia, many Chinese entrepreneurs are shifting offshore assets in response to policy reforms. Meanwhile, Vietnamese investors are diversifying to hedge against political and financial instability.
Affluent individuals from Turkey and Argentina are turning to Dubai to escape currency depreciation and systemic economic volatility. Even in traditionally strong markets like the UK and USA, Dubai is increasingly viewed as a pragmatic choice for capital preservation and long-term growth.
With rising global taxation and inflation, the emirate is becoming a preferred haven for wealth.
Harding reiterated, “Dubai’s real estate market has matured. It’s no longer speculation-driven — it’s built on long-term strategy and quality developments.”
Dubai Sets Record in Luxury Home Sales 🏡
In early 2024, Dubai’s luxury property segment reached a new milestone for $10 million+ home sales, according to data from global property consultancy Knight Frank.
Additionally, Knight Frank’s Destination Dubai report identified the emirate as a top choice among international high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) — especially those with net worths above $15 million — seeking property investment opportunities.
Strong Economic Outlook Favors Continued Growth 📊
Looking to the future, forecasts show a strong contrast between economic trends in Europe and the UAE, highlighting Dubai’s competitive edge. While tariffs and economic uncertainty slow growth in Europe, the UAE is projected to achieve GDP growth of 4% in 2025, 5% in 2026, and 4.7% in 2027, all while maintaining low inflation at just 2%.
This powerful combination of economic stability and strategic growth firmly establishes the UAE — and especially Dubai — as a leading destination for wealth migration and international investment.
💡 Final Thoughts
Dubai’s transformation from a transient destination to a permanent hub for the global elite is now backed by both data and trend analysis. With low taxes, luxury living, strategic infrastructure, and a welcoming investment climate, it’s no surprise the emirate is reshaping the global wealth map.
