UAE to Welcome 9,800 Millionaires in 2025, Leading Global Wealth Migration
The United Arab Emirates is projected to attract 9,800 new millionaires in 2025, more than any other country in the world, according to the latest Henley & Partners Private Wealth Migration Report. This surge positions the UAE as the top global destination for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs).
Why HNWIs Are Choosing the UAE
The report highlights that business-friendly policies, regulatory reforms, and a luxury lifestyle are key reasons the wealthy are relocating to the UAE. There’s a growing trend of wealth moving out of the UK and Asia and flowing into hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) plays a major role. It now hosts 120 family offices managing over $1.2 trillion in assets. In the past year alone:
Family offices grew by 33%
Foundations rose by 51%
Hedge funds increased by 50%
“The UAE’s legal frameworks for marriage, divorce, and inheritance are game-changers,” said Sunita Singh-Dalal, Partner at Hourani. “They attract global families looking for long-term stability.”
Asset Management & Financial Innovation
Experts like Dr. Bhaskar Dasgupta credit the UAE’s rise to:
Strategic location
English common law frameworks (DIFC & ADGM)
Massive capital inflows
Strong fintech, AI, and blockchain presence
Despite introducing corporate tax in 2023, the UAE continues to see rising FDI and expanding global influence. Firms like BlackRock and Goldman Sachs are increasing investments in the region.
Ras Al Khaimah: The Rising Star
While Dubai and Abu Dhabi dominate, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is gaining traction due to projects like Wynn Resort, set to open in 2027 as the region’s first regulated gaming venue.
46% of global HNWIs view RAK as a strong real estate market.
That number jumps to 80% among expats already in the UAE.
RAKEZ and RAKICC also offer cost-effective business zones, fueling economic diversification.
Visa Reforms Driving Migration
The UAE’s Golden Visa program is central to this trend. In the past 9 months alone, five new sponsor-free visa categories were added, covering:
Luxury yacht owners
Healthcare workers
Digital content creators
Real estate investors
Skilled professionals
Additionally, the Dubai Social Agenda 33, with Dh208 billion in funding, focuses on social stability, family development, and multi-generational prosperity.
A Global Shift in Wealth
While the UK will lose 16,500 millionaires in 2025, the UAE expects a net gain of nearly 10,000, primarily from Beijing, Moscow, Mumbai, and London.
“Wealth migration is no longer a backup plan — it’s a core strategy,” says Dominic Volek of Henley & Partners. “And the UAE is leading that strategy globally.”
Final Thoughts
With visionary reforms, economic diversification, strong legal systems, and unmatched lifestyle benefits, the UAE is not just attracting wealth—it’s reshaping the future of wealth management globally.
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