Survey indicates stronger investor interest in the UAE compared with the US, UK, and France.
The United Arab Emirates continues to reinforce its status as one of the world’s leading real estate investment destinations despite recent regional challenges, according to a new global survey commissioned by Arada.
The Arada UAE Real Estate Investment Index, conducted by U.S.-based research firm Penta Group, ranked the UAE as the most attractive investment destination globally. The study found that 56% of international investors showed strong interest in the UAE property market—the highest among all surveyed countries—outpacing the United States (54%), the United Kingdom (41%), France (28%), and Spain (27%).
The survey was conducted between 1 and 23 April 2026 across 12 major international markets and gathered responses from 689 real estate investors. It is the first study of its kind to evaluate international buyers’ perceptions and investment preferences in relation to the UAE real estate sector.
The index found that global awareness of real estate opportunities in the UAE stands at 51%, matching the United Kingdom (51%) and closely trailing the United States (53%).
The UAE’s appeal was especially strong among investors in nearby markets, with 91% of Indian investors, 92% of Egyptian investors, and 85% of Saudi investors ranking it among their top three preferred investment destinations.
Among European investors, the UAE also stood out as the top overseas investment choice for 63% of French investors, 60% of German investors, and 57% of Swiss investors.
The expectation of strong investment returns was identified as the main global driver, cited by 38% of respondents. This motivation was particularly strong among investors from Australia (57%), Spain (56%), and the United Kingdom (41%).
Security and stability were identified as key investment drivers for 65% of Chinese investors and 58% of German investors. The UAE’s regulatory framework, political stability, and legislative transparency continue to strengthen investor confidence in its business environment.
Meanwhile, 34% of respondents highlighted the ease of purchasing and property ownership as a major advantage, rising significantly among Saudi investors (57%) and Egyptian investors (41%), reflecting the UAE’s reputation as an investor-friendly and accessible market.
Commenting on the findings, Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said the results align with the company’s sales performance, noting that international investors increasingly recognize the UAE’s structural advantages, including regulatory maturity, a consistent track record, and strong economic fundamentals, despite recent challenges.
He added that the UAE’s rapid adaptability has long been a key factor in its emergence as a global investment hub, whether during the pandemic or amid periods of financial uncertainty.
“The UAE has repeatedly demonstrated an ability to adapt faster than almost any other market in the world,” he said, reinforcing its position in the global investment landscape.
Taken together, the findings present a clear picture of the UAE’s leading position in the global investment landscape, excelling in the factors most important to investors: strong returns, stability, tax efficiency, and ease of market access.
The publication of the study also coincides with the announcement of several major infrastructure investments across the country, including Dubai’s Dh34 billion Golden Metro Line project, the launch of the world’s first commercial air taxi network, and the Dh6 billion Fourth Federal Road Corridor, aimed at improving inter-emirate connectivity and easing traffic congestion.
The study further highlights the resilience of the UAE market and supports Arada’s strategy of expanding into similarly promising international markets, including the United Kingdom and Australia. The company currently has over Dh130 billion worth of projects under development globally, focusing on communities designed to deliver attractive lifestyles, long-term value, and quality that align with evolving international buyer expectations.
