The United Arab Emirates has marked a historic milestone by securing a record AED 167.6 billion ($45.6 billion) in foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2024, achieving a 48% increase over the previous year. This feat places the UAE among the top ten global destinations for FDI, according to the latest UNCTAD World Investment Report 2025.
Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, praised the accomplishment, emphasizing that under the leadership of President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has truly become a land of opportunity and a preferred destination for global businesses and innovative ideas.
Strategic Vision and National Unity Powering Success
“The UNCTAD report reflects global confidence in the UAE economy,” Sheikh Mohammed said in a statement. “Our development model is clear—stability comes through growth, and the economy is our top policy priority.” The UAE now aims to attract AED 1.3 trillion in FDI over the next six years as part of its ambitious new investment agenda.
The report highlighted the UAE’s stronghold in regional investment, attracting 37% of all FDI inflows into the Middle East. It also ranked second globally, behind only the United States, in the number of new FDI projects announced in 2024—totaling 1,369.
Sector-Wide Momentum and Global Appeal
The Ministry of Investment reported an upswing across diverse sectors, with the IT and software services sector drawing the largest share (11.5%), followed by business services, renewable energy, oil and gas, and real estate. Energy alone attracted AED 4.8 billion ($1.3 billion) in foundational investment projects.
Minister of Investment, Mohamed Hassan Al Suwaidi, attributed the record growth to the UAE’s proactive and visionary leadership, strategic economic reforms, and global investor-friendly policies. These include full foreign ownership, a competitive corporate tax rate of 9%, streamlined licensing, and strong legal protections for investors.
Talent Magnet and Innovation Powerhouse
The UAE has also distinguished itself as a magnet for top global talent. It ranks fifth globally for attracting highly skilled professionals and third for AI talent, according to 2024 international indexes. Strategic partnerships, such as the $1.5 billion AI initiative between Microsoft and Abu Dhabi-based G42, further highlight the country’s innovation drive.
Looking Ahead: UAE’s Investment Strategy 2031
The “National Investment Strategy 2031” targets a cumulative FDI stock of AED 2.2 trillion by 2031. It focuses on expanding priority sectors such as advanced manufacturing, clean energy, financial services, and technology, while promoting sustainable development and economic diversification.
A Beacon Amid Global Investment Decline
Globally, FDI dropped 11% in 2024, especially in developed economies. Yet, the UAE defied this trend, reinforcing its reputation as a resilient, forward-looking economy. With geopolitical tensions and financial uncertainty shaping global markets, the UAE’s consistent growth and policy coherence stand out as a model for sustainable development.
As the world navigates economic volatility, the UAE continues to shine as a beacon for global capital—where bold visions, smart policies, and investor trust converge to shape the future of global investment.
