The UAE’s investments and companies are now responsible for supporting approximately 184,000 jobs in the US, as reported by UAE government estimates. This underscores Dubai’s pivotal role as a hub for American businesses expanding into the Middle East and other regions.
This figure was spotlighted at the Dubai Business Forum – USA, held in New York, attracting around 700 attendees. Additionally, a new report from Dubai Chambers highlighted the growing trade and investment ties between Dubai and the US.
From bolstering American employment to fostering cross-border innovation, the Dubai–US partnership is strengthening on multiple levels.
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Dubai’s Role as America’s Global Gateway
“According to UAE government estimates, about 184,000 US jobs are supported by investments and companies based in the UAE. Moving forward, Dubai has indeed become the US hub for investments into the Middle East,” said Anthony O’Sullivan, UAE Managing Partner at EY.
“Prominent American companies with headquarters in Dubai are not just managing UAE or Gulf relationships; they are increasingly focusing on Africa, Central Asia, and India.
This is because Dubai serves as a global trade hub with excellent logistics, connectivity through ports, airports, and airlines, and a business-friendly government with a streamlined governance structure.”
Trade and Investment on the Rise
Meanwhile, Dubai Chambers’ new report shows that Dubai’s trade with the US has steadily increased over the past six years.
Dubai’s exports to the US surged from $5.2 billion in 2018 to $9.3 billion in 2024, marking a 76% increase, while imports rose from $16.6 billion to $22.3 billion — a 34% rise in the same period.
The US emerged as Dubai’s top foreign direct investment (FDI) source over the past decade. Between 2015 and 2024, U.S. investors initiated 1,474 projects in Dubai, injecting $21.7 billion in capital.
The largest investments were directed towards hotels and tourism ($7.7 billion), software and IT services ($5.5 billion), business services ($1.55 billion), leisure activities ($1.3 billion), and communications ($1 billion), reflecting a wide range of US interests in Dubai’s economy.
Overall, Dubai attracted $21.68 billion in FDI from the US from 2015 to 2024. In H1 2025, the US ranked first globally in total FDI capital flows into Dubai, accounting for 35% of total inflows.
Tech and Digital Investment Driving Growth
The US continues to play a key role in Dubai’s digital transformation. Between 2018 and 2024, it was the top source of FDI in software and IT services, contributing $4.7 billion, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for Dubai’s innovation-driven growth.
US-based professional, Faaiz Tameem, Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) at Inadev, emphasized that Dubai’s growing global connectivity and pro-business environment make it a go-to destination for tech firms.
“Our primary focus is on providing tech solutions in data, AI engineering, and experience,” he said.
“We operate in the US and India but serve clients globally, including Australia. Dubai’s connectivity is unmatched, making it an attractive talent hub. The government simplifies business operations, especially for tech firms. The culture of innovation and learning from mistakes is what draws us to Dubai.”
Trust and Regulation Attract US Blockchain Innovators
Dubai’s regulatory clarity in digital assets has drawn US interest.
Nicolas Cary, Co-Founder and Vice Chairman of Blockchain.com, noted, “The UAE has led in digital assets and blockchain. Initially questioned, Dubai’s regulatory leadership is now a model for others.
This clarity fosters trust, attracting entrepreneurs and investments. We see global harmonization evolving, particularly in legislation and regulation for digital assets.”
He added, “Dubai and the MENA region remain highly appealing for long-term market expansion, with young entrepreneurs and capital influx. We are keenly watching expansion opportunities in the Middle East and Dubai.”
