The United Arab Emirates has once again topped rankings for global talent attraction and foreign direct investment, according to a comprehensive new report released by the UAE Ministry of Economy. The report, covering data through the first half of 2026, points to a record number of new business registrations, golden visa applications, and cross-border investment flows entering the country.
“The UAE’s appeal is no longer simply about tax advantages — it’s about ecosystem,” the report notes. “World-class infrastructure, political stability, geographic position and a genuinely multicultural society have combined to create a destination of choice for both individuals and corporations.”
RECORD GOLDEN VISA ISSUANCES
Among the headline statistics, the UAE issued over 250,000 Golden Visas in the first six months of 2026 — a 34% year-on-year increase. The programme, which offers long-term residency to investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs and exceptional students, has become a critical driver of population growth and consumer spending.
Demand has been particularly strong from Asia-Pacific markets, with applicants from China, India, South Korea and Southeast Asia collectively accounting for nearly 40% of all new golden visa holders. This aligns with East Link Gateway’s own observations: the firm has seen a threefold increase in enquiries from Singapore and Malaysia in the past 12 months alone.
BUSINESS SETUP AND FREE ZONES
Mainland and free zone company formations reached a combined total of 87,000 new registrations in H1 2026, the highest figure on record. The DIFC, ADGM and DMCC continue to lead in financial services and technology, while newer zones such as Dubai South and Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone are drawing manufacturing and logistics operators.
Amendments to the Commercial Companies Law — which now allow 100% foreign ownership across most sectors — have removed a historic barrier that previously deterred many international entrepreneurs. Legal and compliance experts note that while the regulations are now more favourable than ever, choosing the right jurisdiction still requires careful consideration of business activity, visa requirements and operational costs.
REAL ESTATE AS AN INVESTMENT MAGNET
Property transactions in Dubai alone surpassed AED 185 billion in H1 2026, sustaining the momentum seen across the past three years. Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah are also registering strong growth, with developers reporting waitlists for off-plan launches and secondary market prices rising steadily in prime locations.
Analysts note that yield compression in traditional Asian investment hubs — combined with currency diversification appetite — has made UAE property an increasingly attractive proposition for high-net-worth individuals across the region.
