Dubai and Abu Dhabi Lead Global Rankings as Top Destinations for Executive Nomads in 2024

Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been recognized as the leading destinations for executive nomads according to Savills survey. According to Andrew Cummings, the head of the residential agency for the Middle East at Savills, these cities provide "everything needed to flourish both personally and professionally," with a strong emphasis on fostering a dynamic business environment.

"People globally are becoming aware of the advantages that Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer, including improved connectivity, a favorable tax system, excellent lifestyle, education and healthcare services, and expanding career and business opportunities as more companies establish operations here," Cummings shared with The National. Despite scoring lower in the climate and prime rent categories, the two emirates led a survey of 25 cities conducted by London-based Savills.

Dubai, known as the tourism and financial hub of the Middle East, maintained its top spot this year in Savills' latest Executive Nomad Index. The ranking was based on factors such as internet speed, quality of life, climate, air connectivity, and prime rents. Dubai excelled particularly in internet speed, quality of life, and air connectivity, with Dubai International Airport—the world’s busiest for international passenger traffic—and Al Maktoum International Airport, which is expected to become the world's largest upon completion. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi rose from fourth place last year to second this year, scoring well in internet speed and quality of life.

Rounding off the top 10 destinations for executive nomads are Malaga, Miami, Lisbon, Barcelona, Palma (Spain), Barbados, Algarve (Portugal), and Saint Lucia.