The UAE has been ranked 10th in the world for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2024, bringing in a record AED 167.6 billion (USD 45.6 billion). This was announced in the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) World Investment Report 2025.
The UAE’s Ministry of Investment shared a new report showing the country’s strong results in bringing in investment to important industries, even during a challenging global year. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said this top ranking proves the UAE is a land of many opportunities and the best place for businesses and new ideas.
He explained that 37% of all investment in the region came to the UAE, and the country was second after the United States in new investment projects announced. The next goal is to attract AED 1.3 trillion in FDI over the next six years.
Despite a global slowdown, the UAE had a 2.8% increase in new investment projects, reaching AED 53.3 billion (USD 14.5 billion). Software, IT, business services, renewable energy, and real estate were top sectors for new investments.
The Ministry of Investment is working closely with other government offices and private companies to keep growing the UAE’s investment environment and to help more companies from around the world come to the UAE.
From 2015 to 2024, annual FDI inflows rose from AED 31.6 billion to AED 167.6 billion, with a compound annual growth rate of 10.5%. Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment, said that these results show the success of the UAE’s smart decisions and leadership. The ministry plans to keep making the UAE a better place for investment, focusing on new laws, business-friendly rules, and support for investors.
The UAE’s easy business rules, strong legal system, and good trade policies have helped it become a top place for investment and talent. The country is now ranked fifth globally for attracting skilled workers and third for attracting AI experts.
Global partnerships, like 21 economic agreements and 120 investment treaties, also support the UAE’s growth. Recent investments in digital and AI, such as the USD 1.5 billion deal between Microsoft and G42, are helping set new standards for innovation.
The National Investment Strategy 2031 wants to double yearly FDI by 2031, aiming for AED 2.2 trillion in total FDI. This plan focuses on areas like advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, financial services, and IT, showing the UAE’s push for sustainability and innovation.
Reference: wam.ae
