Dubai continues to cement its status as a premier global hub for mobile professionals, claiming the top position in the Savills Executive Nomad Index for the third year in a row. Closely following, Abu Dhabi secures second place, highlighting the UAE’s appeal as the leading destination for a new wave of professionals termed “executive nomads.”
Unlike traditional digital nomads, executive nomads are senior professionals or entrepreneurs who combine remote work with an international lifestyle. They tend to earn higher incomes, prefer longer stays, and require premium accommodations, excellent healthcare, international schooling, and robust infrastructure. These individuals are often C-suite executives, consultants, investors, or specialists capable of leading teams globally, given they have strong connectivity and global access.
According to Savills, Dubai boasts the world’s best global flight network, facilitating residents’ travel to nearly any major city within hours. In contrast, Abu Dhabi excels in internet speed, showcasing the UAE’s significant digital infrastructure investments. Together, the emirates provide what today’s mobile executives value most: seamless global connectivity, technological readiness, and a sophisticated, cosmopolitan lifestyle.
Andrew Cummings, head of residential agency, Middle East at Savills, noted, “Couple this with year-round sunshine, world-class hospitality, access to top-tier schools and healthcare, and it becomes evident why the region continues to lead for executive nomads.”
Other top cities include Málaga, Miami, Lisbon, Palma, and Barcelona — all offering business opportunities and lifestyle perks. Yet, Dubai and Abu Dhabi distinguish themselves with more than just scenic views; they are hubs of innovation, finance, logistics, and global trade, making them both professionally rewarding and personally appealing.
The Executive Nomad Index evaluates 30 destinations worldwide for long-term remote workers, which have digital nomad visas or similar schemes, or are part of economic blocs permitting extended residency. This reflects the global competition to attract mobile professionals who bring skills and spending power to local economies.
Kelcie Sellers, associate director at Savills World Research, commented, “The executive nomad landscape is evolving. Markets are developing new strategies to attract digital and executive nomads. For example, Canada and New Zealand, new to our index, offer long-term visitor visas permitting remote work instead of explicit digital nomad visas.”
New entrants to the 2025 index include Tokyo, Auckland, Crete, Vancouver, and Berlin, emphasizing the rapid adaptation of policies for this growing workforce.
Dubai’s property market, a significant draw for executive nomads, offers luxury and long-term value. Recent data from CBRE and Knight Frank reveals that prime residential prices in Dubai rose nearly 20% last year, yet remain affordable globally. For instance, $1 million buys three times more prime space in Dubai than in London or New York.
Property consultants affirm that Dubai is unmatched for global professionals seeking a base combining business connectivity with lifestyle appeal. Its consistent top ranking in the Savills Executive Nomad Index affirms what many executives have already realized — Dubai is not just a place to live and work, but a platform to thrive in a boundless professional world.
Dubai’s villa communities, such as Emirates Hills, Palm Jumeirah, and Jumeirah Golf Estates, are popular among high-net-worth nomads seeking large family homes with access to international schools and lifestyle amenities. Meanwhile, branded residences are booming, attracting executives who value turnkey living, premium concierge services, and prestigious locations.
The rental market is thriving, with high-end apartments in Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina commanding record prices due to demand from relocating professionals and investors. Developers are responding swiftly, with more than 73,000 new homes expected by 2025, ensuring supply meets demand.
Dubai’s combination of tax-free income, safety, political stability, and strategic location as a crossroads between East and West keeps it at the forefront of the global nomad movement. The government has also introduced long-term visas, golden residency programs, and flexible licensing to ease relocation for executives and entrepreneurs.
