UAE beats the US and UK as the world's top property investment destination

The UAE has retained its position as the world's most attractive real estate investment destination, outranking the United States, the United Kingdom, France and Spain, according to a new survey commissioned by property developer Arada.

The UAE Property Investment Index, conducted by US-based Penta Group across 12 markets and 689 established investors, found that 56% of global investors expressed serious interest in UAE property, ahead of the US at 54% and the UK at 41%.

The UAE's appeal is particularly strong among regional buyers, with 92% of Egyptian investors, 91% of Indian investors and 85% of Saudi investors ranking it as a top-three destination. 

Among Europeans, it was the top choice outside the home country for French investors at 63%, German investors at 60% and Swiss investors at 57%.

Strong returns remain the primary investment driver globally at 38%, while safety, stability and ease of purchase also featured prominently,  areas where the UAE's regulatory framework and transparent property laws give it a significant competitive edge.

"Despite recent headwinds, international investors recognise the UAE's structural advantages in regulatory maturity and stable economic fundamentals," said Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada.

The findings coincide with record UAE infrastructure announcements, including the AED34 billion Dubai Metro Gold Line and the world's first commercial air taxi network.