A significant structural shift in global wealth distribution is underway as high-net-worth individuals increasingly seek jurisdictions offering fiscal predictability and political stability. According to fresh data from financial advisory firm deVere Group, approximately 35% of affluent investors are actively considering relocation to lower-tax, policy-stable environments, signaling a fundamental transformation in international wealth management strategies.
The United Arab Emirates has positioned itself as the primary beneficiary of this capital migration trend, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and ultra-high-net-worth families through its zero personal income tax regime, robust legal framework, and world-class infrastructure. The country’s Golden Visa program and long-term residency options have further enhanced its appeal as a secure base for internationally mobile capital.
Industry analysts confirm the acceleration of what has been termed the ‘Great Wealth Migration,’ with defensive wealth preservation strategies now driving relocation decisions rather than purely expansion-oriented motives. Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, emphasizes that wealthy individuals are systematically reassessing their geographic bases in response to tax changes, geopolitical tensions, and policy unpredictability in traditional wealth centers.
Property markets in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have played a crucial role in attracting global capital, with luxury real estate transactions reaching record levels over the past three years. Knight Frank’s research indicates that Dubai has firmly established itself as a leading destination for private capital and family offices, offering a unique combination of tax efficiency, regulatory transparency, and lifestyle advantages.
Henley & Partners’ Private Wealth Migration Report consistently ranks the UAE as the world’s leading destination for millionaire inflows, a trend expected to continue through 2026. The country’s strategic location between East and West, coupled with its status as a global aviation and financial hub, provides unparalleled connectivity for internationally mobile families and businesses.
Wealth managers note that clustering around policy-stable jurisdictions is becoming more pronounced, with the UAE standing out for its regulatory clarity and consistency. Full foreign ownership provisions, streamlined business setup processes, and sophisticated financial services infrastructure are encouraging entrepreneurs to shift both personal and corporate bases to the country.
As geopolitical and fiscal uncertainties persist across traditional wealth centers, the UAE’s rise as a global magnet for capital and talent is projected to accelerate further, reshaping the landscape of international wealth management for years to come.