The UAE is emerging as a global hub for high-net-worth individuals and luxury real estate investment, with nearly 10,000 millionaires expected to relocate in 2025.
Golden Visas, 0% income tax, and pro-investor reforms are driving the shift—and some of the world’s wealthiest have already made the move.

The investment landscape evolves—shaped by regulatory shifts, tax reforms, and the relentless quest for diversification—more global fund managers are beginning to cast their gaze towards new, strategic geographies. And among these, Abu Dhabi is emerging as a compelling contender.

A Maturing Market with Global Intent

Abu Dhabi's approach to growth is measured, deliberate, and quietly powerful. it is focused on building resilience, credibility, and long-term value. This makes it particularly attractive to discerning fund managers and family offices who are not simply chasing the next trend but are committed to sound governance, capital preservation, and sustainable expansion.

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the capital’s internationally recognised financial centre, has been instrumental in cultivating this environment. Regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) and based on English common law, ADGM offers a level of legal familiarity rarely found outside the West. And it does so while remaining distinctly forward-facing—embracing digital assets, fintech, ESG-led investments, and even blockchain-enabled administration models.

Capital, Credibility, and Connectivity

One of Abu Dhabi’s most underappreciated assets is the depth and discipline of its capital base. Home to some of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds, such as ADIA, Mubadala, ADQ. The city is not merely a destination for capital; it is an allocator of it. Global managers operating here find themselves in close proximity to institutional investors who are both well-capitalised and strategically patient.

Moreover, Abu Dhabi’s investment climate has matured. There’s been a noticeable uptick in family offices, high-net-worth individuals, and multi-generational wealth entities choosing to establish a footprint in the emirate. This, coupled with the government’s pro-business stance, has created a layered and nuanced investment ecosystem. Where real estate, private equity, venture capital, and structured finance coexist and complement one another.

Also, The UAE’s recent introduction of a federal corporate tax regime, set at a globally competitive 9%, only bolsters its appeal. Crucially, funds structured within ADGM remain exempt, and individuals continue to benefit from zero personal income tax, which is an increasingly rare advantage in today's fiscal environment.

Growth Markets

Abu Dhabi is strategically positioned as the gateway to long-term growth. With Its diplomatic ties, investment treaties, and bilateral trade agreements grant global fund managers access to markets that are rich in opportunity but historically undercapitalized or underserved. It’s not about what the UAE offers internally; it’s about leveraging the city as a launchpad into wider emerging markets, markets where appetite for capital, infrastructure development, and innovation is only accelerating.

Final Thoughts

Relocating to or operating from Abu Dhabi is no longer solely a business decision. The emirate’s exceptional quality of life, education, healthcare, and security now rival many European capitals. It offers a lifestyle conducive to both professional ambition and personal wellbeing—a balance that is becoming increasingly valuable in today’s high-pressure investment world.