Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to be at the forefront of the global executive nomad movement, as both cities have been ranked as the top two destinations for long-term remote workers in the latest Savills Executive Nomad Index. The UAE offers a high standard of living, a luxury lifestyle, and modern infrastructure, making it an appealing destination for professionals who leverage technology to work remotely. Both cities have favorable climates year-round, excellent air connectivity, and a vibrant business environment.
Dubai, in particular, stands out for its air connectivity, with Dubai International being the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic. The upcoming Al Makthoum airport expansion will further solidify Dubai’s position as a global travel hub. Executive nomads are drawn to both Dubai and Abu Dhabi for their modern infrastructure, high quality of life, and business opportunities, making them ideal destinations for professionals looking to grow their careers while enjoying a luxurious lifestyle.
According to Andrew Cummings, head of Residential Agency – Middle East at Savills, Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer everything needed to thrive personally and professionally, with a focus on creating a lively business environment and ample networking opportunities. The top 10 destinations on the index, including cities like Málaga, Miami, and Lisbon, all have beachside access, reflecting the preference for locations with access to outdoor amenities and a high quality of life.
Executive nomads, who tend to be older and often travel with their families, prioritize safety, healthcare, education facilities, and access to local amenities when selecting a destination. They are more likely to rent and emphasize extra space in their accommodations. Prime rents have increased across the 25 locations monitored in the Savills index, with some urban markets seeing significant growth. New entrants to the index, such as Palermo, Cape Town, Grenada, Bali, and San José, offer unique cultural experiences and affordable prime rental markets.
The rise of executive nomads, who seek a balance between work and life in desirable locations around the world, has led to an increased focus on quality of life aspects and amenities in the top international destinations. With the growing popularity of remote work and digital connectivity, cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are well-positioned to attract professionals looking for a seamless transition to a new lifestyle. As the executive nomad trend continues to evolve, destinations that offer a mix of business opportunities, networking, and leisure activities will remain in high demand among this global workforce.
