The UAE continues to cement its position as a global magnet for ultra-wealthy individuals, with Knight Frank forecasting a 36% increase in residents holding more than $30 million in assets over the next five years. The growth trajectory places the Emirates among the world’s fastest-expanding markets for high-net-worth individuals, driven by the country’s business-friendly environment and resilient real estate sector.
Dubai’s luxury property market demonstrated exceptional strength, recording a 25.1% price increase in prime residential properties over the past year and a remarkable 193.9% surge over five years. The emirate secured second place worldwide for prime residential property price growth, reinforcing its appeal to international investors.
Transaction activity in the ultra-luxury segment has accelerated sharply. Properties valued above $10 million witnessed a dramatic rise from 113 deals in 2021 to 500 transactions in 2025, reflecting sustained appetite for high-end assets despite global economic uncertainties.
The UAE’s appeal as a business hub and the sustained strength of its real estate sector continue to attract high-net-worth individuals globally.
The broader Middle East region recorded an average 9.4% increase in prime property prices during 2025, with Dubai’s performance serving as the primary catalyst. The city has emerged as a preferred destination in global wealth migration, often chosen over traditional centres such as New York and London for its stability, connectivity, and favorable business conditions.
Abu Dhabi has gained momentum as a complementary investment destination, attracting international buyers through its expanding financial ecosystem and cultural institutions including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the planned Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
The sustained influx of ultra-wealthy residents is expected to further stimulate demand across Dubai’s luxury property market, particularly in waterfront developments and prime locations. The trend aligns with broader patterns observed in the UAE’s residential sector, where buyer confidence has remained robust despite regional geopolitical challenges.
Knight Frank’s forecast underscores the UAE’s transformation into a premier wealth hub, supported by investor-friendly policies, tax advantages, and world-class infrastructure that continue to differentiate the Emirates in an increasingly competitive global landscape.