The UAE has officially entered the world’s top three residence destinations — a milestone that reflects how far the country has come in attracting global investors and families.
According to the 2026 Global Residence Program Index released by Henley & Partners, the UAE climbed from fifth place last year to joint second this year. It also recorded the fastest rise among all countries assessed.
For residents walking through DIFC on a weekday morning or watching new businesses open across Dubai Marina, the shift feels visible. The country is no longer just a regional hub. It is being recognised globally as a serious long-term base.
A Historic Leap in the Global Rankings
The Global Residence Program Index compares 40 leading residence-by-investment programmes selected from over 100 worldwide. Each programme is assessed by immigration specialists, economists, academics, and risk experts.
Countries are evaluated based on:
- Reputation
- Quality of life
- Investment requirements
- Tax efficiency
- Processing standards
- Mobility benefits
In the 2026 edition, Greece retained the top position. The UAE shared second place with Italy and Switzerland, ranking ahead of Portugal, Australia, Canada, the UK, Singapore, and the United States.
This is the first time the UAE has entered the top three since the index began — a clear sign of changing global preferences.
The UAE Is Gaining Ground
The rise did not happen overnight. Over the past few years, the UAE has reshaped its residency landscape.
Clear long-term visa pathways, including investor and professional options, have made it easier for people to plan their future here. Policies are transparent. Processes are streamlined. Investors know what to expect.
There is also a noticeable shift in who is choosing the UAE. Entrepreneurs from Europe, Asia, and Africa are relocating their families, opening regional offices, and treating Dubai or Abu Dhabi as a primary home rather than a secondary base.
This momentum also supports how Dubai recently entered the world’s wealthiest cities rankings — reinforcing its global economic presence.
Tax Clarity and Business Confidence
One of the strongest factors behind the UAE’s jump is tax competitiveness.
The country continues to offer no personal income tax and a clear corporate tax structure. For high-net-worth individuals and founders, this creates predictability.
Unlike some markets where regulations frequently shift, the UAE has positioned itself as stable and business-focused. Investors often say that clarity matters as much as the financial benefits.
The environment also complements long-term visa options such as the UAE Golden Visa, which has become one of the region’s most recognised residency routes.
Quality of Life That Matches the Ambition
Beyond numbers and policies, lifestyle plays a major role.
The UAE scored highly for quality of life — and that reflects everyday realities. Safe streets. Efficient infrastructure. International schools. Healthcare that meets global standards.
Spend a weekend in Downtown Dubai or along Abu Dhabi’s Corniche and the appeal becomes clear. Residents enjoy global dining, beach access, cultural events, and year-round sunshine — all within a secure environment.
Families relocating are not just thinking about business. They are thinking about stability, education, and long-term growth.
Recent improvements in global passport rankings have also strengthened the country’s mobility appeal, adding another layer of advantage.
A Broader Global Shift
The 2026 index signals a larger change. While European destinations still perform strongly, their dominance is gradually being challenged.
Countries in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific are emerging as serious alternatives. Investors are diversifying where they live, work, and hold residency.
According to leadership at Henley & Partners, governments are now using residence programmes as long-term strategic tools rather than short-term revenue streams.
That aligns closely with the UAE’s broader economic vision — attracting entrepreneurs, innovators, and global talent who contribute to growth.
for people living in the UAE
For people already living in the UAE, the ranking reinforces something many already feel: the country is seen as a credible, long-term destination.
This boosts investor confidence and strengthens the UAE’s international image. It also supports the narrative around why many of the world’s wealthy are choosing to relocate here.
Wealth is moving faster than ever. Stability, clarity, and opportunity now matter more than tradition alone. The UAE has positioned itself at that intersection.
The Bigger Picture
The 2026 rankings highlight a wider spread of competitive residence destinations globally. Strong contenders are emerging across multiple regions.
Within that competitive landscape, the UAE’s move into the top three stands out.
It signals trust. It reflects planning. And it confirms that the country is no longer just participating in the global mobility conversation — it is shaping it.
Follow Social Kandura for the latest local news and things to do in Dubai and across the UAE.
Read More
- UAE Leads Forbes Middle East’s 2026 Tech Leaders Ranking
- Dubai Named the World’s Second-Best Food Destination for 2026 by TripAdvisor
- UAE Ranks 10th in 2026 Global Soft Power Index, Strengthening Its Global Influence
- Abu Dhabi Named World’s Safest City for 10th Year in a Row
- Saudi Arabia Ranked World’s Most Trusted Government for 3rd Year Running
- UAE Passport Ranked Fifth Strongest Worldwide in 2026
