According to the latest brand finance Global City Index released on Thursday, Dubai has climbed four positions to rank fifth among 100 cities worldwide for city brands, following London, New York, Paris, & Tokyo.
Dubai’s top position in the business and investment category coincides with its leading reputation. The city has also experienced significant advancements in remote work acceptance, moving from 24th to 4th place, and locally, from 16th to 8th.
Initiatives such as the Dubai Future Foundation contribute to the emirate’s top ranking for future growth potential, establishing it as a hub for innovation and startups. Additionally, Dubai is recognized as the premier city worldwide for investment consideration, reinforcing its status as a leading investment destination. It holds the second position for its strong and stable economy and ranks third for its appealing personal taxation policies.
“Dubai’s ascent to the fifth-best city brand globally is largely due to its number one ranking in reputation. This improved perception highlights the effectiveness of the UAE government’s strategic investments in infrastructure, tourism, and the business environment. The significant gains in Dubai’s consideration metrics further emphasize the city’s growing appeal as a prime destination for visitors, residents, businesses, and global investors,” stated Andrew Campbell, Managing Director of Brand Finance Middle East.
The recent study analyzed responses from over 15,000 participants across 20 countries, providing a comprehensive look at perceptions of the world’s leading city brands.
To assess how desirable respondents found 100 cities for living, working, studying, visiting, retiring, and investing, they rated them based on familiarity, reputation, and consideration.
Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi improved eight spots to rank 24th but retained its 30th place globally from 2023. Notably, the city is now ranked second for investment consideration, rising 12 spots, and ninth globally for remote work consideration, gaining 15 spots since last year.
Abu Dhabi also scored highly in the business and investment category, achieving five points, with four points for being an excellent location for innovations and startups, and two points for future growth potential. Its growing reputation as an innovation hub is further reflected in its rise of 16 spots to 20th globally for leadership in science and technology.