Dubai has secured its position as the world’s No.1 destination for Greenfield Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects for the fourth straight year, according to Financial Times Ltd.’s ‘fDi Markets’ data.
In 2024, the emirate attracted AED52.3 billion ($14.24 billion) in estimated FDI capital. This marks a 33.2% rise from AED39.26 billion ($10.69 billion) in 2023. It is also the highest FDI inflow recorded in a single year since 2020. Additionally, Dubai witnessed 1,117 Greenfield FDI projects, the most in its history. The total number of announced FDI projects reached 1,826, an 11% increase from the previous year.
Visionary Leadership Driving Growth
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, credited this achievement to the visionary leadership of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
“Dubai’s continued success in attracting foreign investment demonstrates its global appeal and commitment to economic growth. Being ranked the world’s No.1 destination for Greenfield FDI for the fourth year in a row highlights the emirate’s ability to set new benchmarks. It also reflects our strategy to adapt to evolving global market trends. This progress aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double Dubai’s economy by 2033 and position it among the world’s top three urban economies.”
A Global Investment Hub
Dubai’s strategic policies and investor-friendly approach have strengthened its position as a leading FDI hub. In 2024, the emirate ranked fourth globally for attracting Greenfield FDI capital, moving up from fifth place in 2023. It also maintained its top ranking in the Middle East and Africa (MEA).
Additionally, Dubai advanced from fourth to third worldwide in job creation through FDI. Key sectors contributing to this success include business services, software and IT, real estate, financial services, and consumer products. Dubai also maintained its No.1 global ranking for Headquarter (HQ) FDI projects, securing 50 projects in 2024.
Strategic Investments and Future Outlook
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), emphasized Dubai’s resilience in attracting investments despite global challenges.
“Dubai’s ability to draw capital amid changing global conditions reflects investor confidence and our leadership’s strategic foresight. Our city’s investment-friendly environment continues to set it apart as a global leader in FDI attraction.”
The 2024 FDI performance reflects the impact of transformational projects under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. Dubai now holds a 6.2% share of the global Greenfield FDI market and 55% of the Middle East’s total Greenfield FDI projects. These figures reaffirm Dubai’s role as a key player in global investment.
Sectoral Performance and Top Investors
Dubai’s investment landscape saw growth across several industries. The emirate led in attracting Greenfield FDI projects in financial services, headquarters, real estate, and artificial intelligence (AI). Investments in Advanced Information Technologies (AIT) increased from 7.3% in 2023 to 8% in 2024, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a leading global tech hub.
Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), highlighted Dubai’s achievements.
“Breaking records in Greenfield FDI projects reflects Dubai’s long-term economic vision and investor confidence. Our focus remains on fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth to ensure Dubai remains a global benchmark for investment.”
New Forms of Investments (NFIs) rose by 23%, indicating strong investor confidence in Dubai’s business-friendly policies. Reinvestments surged by 98%, while venture capital-backed FDI grew by 39%. These trends highlight Dubai’s role as a thriving hub for startups and high-growth ventures.
The top five source countries for FDI capital into Dubai contributed 63% of total inflows. India led with 21.5%, followed by the United States (13.7%), France (11%), the United Kingdom (10%), and Switzerland (6.9%). The leading sectors by FDI capital included hotels and tourism (14%), real estate (14%), and software and IT services (9.2%).
Sustaining Growth in 2025 and Beyond
Despite global uncertainties, Dubai remains well-positioned to attract investment, especially in technology and innovation-driven sectors. Its investor-friendly policies, modern infrastructure, and strategic location make it a top choice for business expansion.
With continued focus on regulatory enhancements and global partnerships, Dubai aims to maintain its leadership in FDI attraction. The emirate’s vision for the future ensures it remains a preferred destination for investors, businesses, and talent worldwide.
