Dubai has once again solidified its reputation as the premier global hub for greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI) projects for the fifth straight year, according to the latest findings from the Financial Times Ltd’s fDi Markets database. In 2025, the emirate recorded a significant uptick in inward FDI, showcasing its enduring attractiveness to international investors.

Impressive Growth in FDI Projects

In 2025, Dubai reported a remarkable increase in the number of announced greenfield FDI projects, reaching a total of 1,253—an impressive 10.5% rise compared to 2024. This strong performance allowed Dubai to capture a record 7% of global greenfield FDI projects, marking its highest share in history. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, attributed this success to Dubai’s long-term strategies centered around openness, connectivity, and strategic partnerships. He emphasized that the ongoing confidence from global investors and entrepreneurs reflects the city’s robust economic foundations and its commitment to nurturing new growth opportunities.

Leaders in Strategic Sectors

Notably, Dubai has achieved the number one spot globally for headquarters-related greenfield FDI projects for four consecutive years. This accolade underscores the emirate’s position as a viable base for multinational corporations looking to expand both regionally and internationally. Additionally, Dubai has maintained its leadership in artificial intelligence-related greenfield FDI initiatives, further establishing itself as a hub for innovation and technology. The city also ranked first in multiple strategic sectors, including information and communication technology, creative industries, and life sciences. Furthermore, its recent ascension to the top rank in manufacturing projects signifies a pivotal moment in its ongoing economic diversification efforts.

The logistics sector performed exceptionally well as well, with Dubai securing the number one global position in transportation and warehousing. This achievement reinforces its status as a vital global trade and logistics center. Across various high-impact industries such as food and beverages, healthcare, and e-commerce, Dubai stood out as the only city to attract over ten FDI projects, affirming its diverse economic landscape capable of sustaining investment across both established and emerging sectors.

Consistent Capital Inflows

The year 2025 also showcased broad-based growth in capital deployment, attracting approximately $8.83 billion (Dh32.43 billion) in greenfield FDI. This influx contributed to the creation of nearly 39,000 jobs, marking an 18.8% increase from the previous year. The diverse investment landscape included various types of capital flows, from greenfield projects to mergers and acquisitions, indicating a robust and adaptable investment ecosystem.

As confirmed by Dubai FDI Monitor data, confidence in the emirate’s investment climate spans a wide array of international source markets. This geographic diversity—from North America to Europe and Asia—positions Dubai as a strategic bridge, enhancing its connectivity and facilitating trade. The regulatory environment is continually evolving, ensuring transparency and modernity, which further attracts investors.

Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation, emphasized that the scale of FDI inflows in 2025 reflects enduring global confidence in Dubai’s long-term growth trajectory. With a GDP reaching Dh937 billion and a 5.4% growth rate for the year, Dubai’s economy continues to expand robustly despite challenges in global markets. As it looks to the future, Dubai remains not just a preferred investment locale, but also a symbol of resilience and adaptability in an ever-changing economic landscape.