The United Arab Emirates ranked first in the global real estate investment attractiveness index, confirming its status as one of the most sought-after destinations for international investors.

According to the UAE Property Investment Index, prepared by the American consulting firm Penta Group on behalf of developer Arada, more than half of the surveyed investors consider the Emirates' real estate market as one of the most promising avenues for capital investment.

The study revealed that 56% of participants show high interest in purchasing real estate in the UAE. By this metric, the country surpassed major markets such as the USA, the UK, France, and Spain.

These findings confirm the resilience of the UAE real estate market even amidst external economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

Investors from various countries choose the UAE

The study surveyed 689 experienced investors from 12 countries worldwide. Investors from the Middle East and Asia showed particularly high interest in the UAE real estate market.

According to the study data:

• 92% of investors from Egypt included the UAE among the top three markets for investment;
• 91% of investors from India made a similar choice;
• 85% of investors from Saudi Arabia also named the Emirates as one of the most attractive destinations.

High interest is also observed among European investors. Among foreign markets, the UAE became the most popular destination for:

• 63% of investors from France;
• 60% of investors from Germany;
• 57% of investors from Switzerland.

These figures indicate that the country's real estate market continues to attract capital from various regions worldwide, maintaining its international competitiveness.

Yield and stability remain key advantages

The study showed that the potential return on investment remains the main factor when choosing a real estate market. This criterion was cited as decisive by 38% of respondents.

The issue of profitability proved particularly important for investors from Australia, Spain, and the UK.

At the same time, a significant portion of study participants prioritizes investment security and jurisdictional stability. For instance, this factor was paramount for 65% of investors from China and 58% of investors from Germany.

Experts note that the UAE's appeal is largely based on a combination of several factors:

• transparent regulation of the real estate market;
• stable economic policy;
• a developed legal system;
• a high level of investor rights protection;
• a favorable tax regime.

These advantages allow the country to maintain its leading position in the global real estate market.

The ease of buying real estate attracts foreign buyers

An additional advantage of the UAE market is the accessibility of real estate purchase and ownership procedures.

According to the study, 34% of surveyed investors consider the ease of acquiring real estate one of the most important factors when choosing a country for investment.

Among investors from the region, this figure was even higher:

• 57% of participants from Saudi Arabia;
• 41% of investors from Egypt.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, CEO of Arada Group, noted that the study results reflect the real sentiments of international buyers and confirm the high level of trust in the UAE real estate market.

According to him, the country has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to effectively adapt to various external challenges, including global economic crises and the consequences of the pandemic.

Large-scale infrastructure projects sustain investor interest

One of the factors contributing to the long-term attractiveness of real estate in the UAE remains the active development of transport and urban infrastructure.

In the coming years, the country plans to implement several major projects that are capable of further enhancing the investment appeal of various areas.

Among the most significant initiatives are:

• the launch of Etihad Rail passenger services;
• the opening of the Blue Line Dubai Metro in 2029;
• subsequent construction of the Gold Line Dubai Metro.

Such projects traditionally have a positive impact on property values, accessibility of areas, and the overall level of business activity.

For investors, this creates additional opportunities for long-term capital growth and increased property liquidity.

Dubai's Market Becomes More Buyer-Friendly

After several years of active growth, Dubai's residential real estate market is beginning to show signs of stabilization.

According to industry statistics published in spring 2026, market activity has somewhat decreased compared to previous periods. This creates more favorable conditions for buyers, who gain more opportunities for negotiation and property selection.

Among current trends, experts highlight:

• stabilization of villa prices in several areas;
• a decrease in the total number of transactions;
• increased willingness of sellers to discuss purchase terms and offer additional concessions.

This situation could be appealing to both end-buyers of homes and investors considering entering the market in the medium term.

What UAE Leadership Means for the Real Estate Market

The top position in the international investment attractiveness ranking confirms the high level of trust in the UAE real estate market from the global investment community.

The country continues to strengthen its position thanks to a combination of economic stability, transparent regulation, modern infrastructure, and sustained demand from international buyers.

For investors, this means the preservation of favorable conditions for capital investment, and for property buyers, confidence in the market's long-term appeal and its prospects for further development.

Conclusion

A new international study has confirmed the UAE's status as a leading global destination for real estate investment. More than half of surveyed investors view the country's market as one of the most attractive for investments, with strong interest maintained from both Middle Eastern and European investors.

Amidst ongoing infrastructure development, a stable economy, and a transparent regulatory framework, the UAE real estate market remains one of the most stable and promising in the world, both for private investors and for buyers planning long-term residency in the country.