Dubai, the tourism and financial hub of the Middle East, has once again claimed the top spot in the Savills Executive Nomad Index, which ranks cities based on their appeal to long-term remote workers. This recognition is based on key factors such as internet speed, quality of life, air connectivity, climate stability, and prime property rental values.
Understanding the Savills Executive Nomad Index
The Savills Executive Nomad Index evaluates 25 global destinations, focusing on their attractiveness and accessibility for remote workers who prefer a more stable, long-term setup. Each city is ranked on parameters including internet connectivity, flight networks, climate consistency, prime residential rental prices, and overall quality of life.
Who Are Executive Nomads?
Unlike digital nomads—often depicted as young, tech-savvy individuals working from laptops while traveling light—executive nomads are typically older professionals. They often travel with their families and prioritize both physical and digital connectivity. For these individuals, considerations such as safety, healthcare access, and education facilities are just as important as fast internet.
Executive nomads tend to maintain full-time employment with their organizations but participate in geographically dispersed projects or assignments. With the rise of remote work, particularly accelerated by the 2020 pandemic, this demographic is expanding as companies embrace flexible working arrangements.
Visa Schemes: A Key to Success
An essential element in attracting these professionals is the availability of digital nomad visa schemes. In 2021, the UAE introduced a one-year residency permit specifically for remote workers. This visa allows foreign professionals to live in the UAE while continuing to work for their employers abroad, providing a unique opportunity to live in Dubai’s dynamic environment without disrupting their professional commitments.
Dubai's Competitive Advantage in Real Estate
Despite a surge in prime property prices over the last year, driven by strong demand from senior executives and business owners, Dubai remains competitively priced compared to other global cities like London, Hong Kong, and New York. On a price-per-square-foot basis, Dubai offers more space and value, making it an attractive option for executive nomads seeking spacious, premium living environments.
Impact on Dubai's Real Estate Market
As executive nomads typically opt to rent properties, their demand for spacious homes near key amenities is expected to drive rental demand in premium segments of the market. This trend presents an opportunity for income-focused investors, who may find the executive rental market a particularly attractive investment option as this lifestyle trend continues to grow.
Dubai's Alluring Lifestyle
Dubai’s appeal extends beyond its professional infrastructure. The emirate is known for its superior quality of life, world-class air connectivity through Dubai International Airport—the busiest for international passenger traffic—and the upcoming Al Maktoum International Airport, which is poised to become the world's largest upon completion. These factors, combined with Dubai’s thriving business ecosystem, favorable tax policies, and high-quality healthcare and education systems, make it a prime destination for both personal and professional growth.
As more people around the world discover the advantages of life in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, these emirates are becoming increasingly popular hubs for international professionals. Even though Dubai lags slightly in climate and prime rents when compared to some cities, its comprehensive appeal keeps it ahead of the competition.
Outlook for the Future
With the continuous launch of exciting real estate projects and government policies that support business and economic growth, Dubai is poised to remain a hotspot for executive nomads and professionals worldwide. The city offers the perfect blend of lifestyle benefits, professional opportunities, and a robust infrastructure that is designed to help individuals and families thrive in a global environment.
If you would like to learn more about pivoting your investment strategy and building a property portfolio to take advantage of the robust executive rental market please feel free to get in touch with me or fäm's Dubai Marina Team at +971551999555