Dubai Secures No.1 Global Ranking for Greenfield FDI Projects in 2025
Dubai has solidified its status as the premier global destination for greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI) projects for the fifth consecutive year, as reported by the fDi Markets database. In 2025, the emirate recorded a remarkable performance in inward FDI, with a total of 1,253 announced greenfield projects, reflecting a 10.5% increase from the previous year. This achievement also marks a historic high, with Dubai capturing a 7% share of global greenfield FDI projects.
These results align with the objectives outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda, known as D33, which aims to double the emirate’s economy by 2033 and reinforce its position as a leading hub for business, investment, and innovation.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, emphasized that Dubai’s ongoing global leadership in attracting foreign direct investment underscores the confidence the international community has in the emirate’s economy and vision. He noted that this success is the result of a long-term strategy focused on openness, connectivity, and strategic partnerships, which foster an environment conducive to business success.
Sheikh Hamdan expressed pride in the trust that global investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators place in Dubai, highlighting the resilience of the emirate’s economy and its capacity to create new growth opportunities. He added that Dubai’s competitiveness stems from its ability to anticipate change and adapt swiftly, transforming global shifts into pathways for growth. The emirate aims not only to attract investment but also to cultivate an environment where top talent and ambitious businesses converge to develop future industries.
Strategic, Future-Focused Sector Leadership
Dubai has maintained its position as the leading global base for multinational corporations, securing the No.1 ranking for headquarters greenfield FDI projects for the fourth consecutive year. This reflects sustained confidence in the emirate’s capability to facilitate regional and international expansion.
In addition, Dubai has upheld its global leadership in artificial intelligence-related greenfield FDI projects for the fourth year, reinforcing its status as a center for innovation-driven growth and advanced technologies. The emirate ranked first globally in several strategic sectors, including ICT and electronics, creative industries, professional services, life sciences, consumer goods, financial services, industrial equipment, and environmental technology.
For the first time, Dubai achieved the No.1 global ranking in manufacturing FDI projects, marking a significant milestone in its economic diversification efforts and underscoring its emerging role as an advanced manufacturing hub aligned with the D33 Agenda. Furthermore, Dubai secured the top position in transportation and warehousing projects, showcasing its strength as a global logistics and trade gateway.
Dubai also excelled in several high-impact industries, including food and beverages, electronic components, healthcare, business machines and equipment, cleantech, metals, and e-commerce. Notably, it was the only city worldwide to attract over 10 greenfield FDI projects across multiple sectors, meeting the global ranking threshold.
Sustained Capital Inflows
In 2025, Dubai attracted $8.83 billion (AED32.43 billion) in greenfield FDI capital, according to the fDi Markets database. This influx of investment supported the creation of 38,918 jobs, representing an 18.8% increase from the 32,754 jobs generated in 2024.
The year’s performance was characterized by a diverse mix of investment types, including greenfield projects, reinvestments, venture capital-backed activities, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic expansions. Dubai also attracted investment across key business functions such as business services, construction, retail, logistics, distribution, transportation, and manufacturing, reflecting confidence in its ability to support a wide range of operational needs.
Strong Economic Fundamentals and Governance
The robust economic fundamentals of Dubai continue to drive this momentum. The emirate’s GDP reached AED937 billion in 2025, reflecting a 5.4% annual growth rate, with Q4 growth accelerating to 6.4%. This demonstrates sustained economic expansion despite global market volatility.
Dubai continues to draw investment from a diverse array of global markets, including North America, Europe, Asia, and the GCC, reinforcing its position as a globally connected investment hub. Sectoral performance remained broad-based, with significant activity in business services, tourism, transportation, consumer products, real estate, software and IT services, and financial services.
Outlook
Looking ahead, Dubai is poised to translate its ambitions into actionable results. Its pro-investment policies, strategic direction, and economic resilience position the emirate as a platform for sustainable growth. The recently announced AED2.5 billion economic incentive package, which includes fee deferrals, extended customs grace periods, and streamlined residency processes, further underscores Dubai’s commitment to supporting businesses and attracting global talent.
Dubai is focused on creating an environment where enterprises can scale, partnerships can flourish, and long-term value can be achieved, in alignment with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.
Source: www.emirates247.com
Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.
Published on 2026-06-23 16:10:00 • By the Editorial Desk
