Dubai has once again reaffirmed its position as a global investment leader, topping the world in Greenfield FDI projects for the first half of 2025.
Global Leadership in Investment
According to fDi Markets, Dubai ranked No.1 worldwide for Greenfield FDI projects for the eighth consecutive half-year period since 2021. The city attracted a record 643 projects, standing 478 ahead of the second-placed city — the largest lead ever recorded in the database’s history.
Vision and Confidence
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, credited this achievement to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
“The strength and resilience of Dubai’s economy continues to inspire confidence among global investors in its ability to reimagine the future and unlock emerging global technological trends and sustainable sectors,” His Highness said.
This success reflects the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which seeks to double Dubai’s economy by 2033 and establish the emirate among the world’s top three urban economies.
Strong Growth in Capital and Jobs
Dubai also climbed the global FDI rankings:
- No.2 globally for total FDI capital inflows
- No.3 globally for jobs created
In H1 2025, the emirate attracted AED 40.4 billion ($11 billion) in FDI capital, a 62% increase compared to last year. Over 1,090 projects were announced (+28.7%), creating 38,433 new jobs (+46.7%).
Expanding Sectors and Headquarters
Dubai ranked No.1 globally for headquarters FDI projects, with a 60% rise from 2024. The city also led across key sectors including ICT, creative industries, finance, transportation, and environmental technology. Notably, Dubai emerged as a magnet for AI and FinTech investments, reinforcing its status as a hub for future economies.
Global Investor Confidence
The city’s investor base remained diverse and international. The United States, United Kingdom, France, India, and Saudi Arabia together accounted for nearly 69% of FDI capital inflows. This strong multi-regional presence underlines Dubai’s role as a strategic bridge for global business.
Future Outlook
His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said Dubai’s sustained performance reflects its resilience and strong public-private collaboration.
“As a city that rapidly transforms investment into innovation and opportunity, Dubai offers certainty, scale and opportunities that appeal to investors worldwide.”
With robust foundations, progressive policies, and future-driven strategies under D33, Dubai is set to build on its momentum through the remainder of 2025 and beyond.
