Dubai, UAE – The UAE continues to lead the way as one of the world’s leading real estate investment destinations despite recent regional challenges. This is according to a new global survey conducted by Arad Real Estate Group.
The Aradah Real Estate Investment Index in the UAE revealed that the UAE ranked first as the best investment destination in the world.
The survey was prepared by Penta Group, the American research institution.
56% of global investors expressed serious interest in the UAE real estate market. This is the highest percentage among all markets covered by the study, ahead of the United States 54%, the United Kingdom 41%, France 28%, and Spain 27%.
The survey was conducted from April 1 to 23, 2026, across 12 major markets and included 689 real estate investors.
This research is the first of its kind to monitor international buyers’ attitudes towards the UAE real estate market.
World class competition
The index results showed that the level of familiarity with the opportunities available in the UAE real estate sector reached 51%. This is equivalent to the level of familiarity with the UK markets of 51% and the US markets of 53%.
The UAE’s attractiveness is particularly prominent to investors in nearby markets. 91% of Indian investors, 92% of Egyptian investors, and 85% of Saudi investors ranked it among their top three favorite investment destinations.
In terms of European investors, the UAE ranked first as a destination outside the country of residence for both French investors. By 63%, Germans 60%, and Swiss 57%.
Opportunities to achieve high returns constituted the number one investment driver globally, at 38%. Australian investors, 57%, Spanish investors, 56%, and British investors, 41%, placed it at the top of their priorities.
Safety.. The decisive element
Safety and stability are also the decisive factor for Chinese investors, 65%, and German investors, 58%. The regulatory system, political stability, and legislative transparency in the UAE are among the most prominent factors of confidence in its investment environment.
34% of participants cited ease of purchase and ownership as a key factor. This percentage rises to 57% among Saudi investors and 41% among Egyptian investors. This reflects the country’s reputation as a facilitating and stimulating environment for investors.
Location on the global investment map
Together, these data reveal a clear picture of the UAE’s leading position in the global investment scene. As a market, it tops the most important criteria for investors, which are returns, stability, tax efficiency, and ease of access.
The publication of this study coincides with the country’s announcement of unprecedented investments in infrastructure, including the Golden Metro Line project in Dubai worth 34 billion dirhams. The world’s first commercial air taxi network, and the fourth federal hub worth AED 6 billion to enhance connectivity between the UAE and ease congestion.
The results of the study confirm the strength of the UAE market and the correctness of Arad’s strategy to expand into similar promising markets, including the United Kingdom and Australia. The value of the company’s projects under development exceeds 130 billion dirhams globally, while its communities are designed to offer an attractive lifestyle, quality and long-term value that keeps pace with the growing aspirations of international buyers.
