“The UAE is poised for a significant surge in its ultra-high-net-worth population, with projections indicating a substantial increase by 2031. This growth is underpinned by Dubai's exceptional performance, ranking second globally for prime residential property price appreciation and solidifying its status as a premier destination for global wealth migration.
Wealth • Real Estate • UAE
UAE’s Ultra-Wealthy Population Set to Surge as Dubai Strengthens Its Global Pull
Knight Frank’s latest outlook points to rapid growth in the UAE’s ultra-high-net-worth population, supported by luxury property momentum and rising global wealth migration
The UAE is expected to attract an even larger share of the world’s ultra-wealthy over the coming years, with the number of individuals holding more than $30 million in assets projected to rise from 4,851 in 2026 to 6,588 by 2031, according to Knight Frank’s 2026 Wealth Report.
The forecast places the UAE among the fastest-growing markets globally for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, reinforcing its position as a preferred destination for wealth, investment, and long-term lifestyle relocation.
UHNWIs in 2026
4,851
Holding $30M+
UHNWIs by 2031
6,588
Strong projected growth
Dubai Prime Price Growth
25.1%
Over the past year
5-Year Price Growth
193.9%
Luxury market expansion
Wealth Growth Trajectory
Projected UHNWI base by 2031
6,588
This projected jump highlights the UAE’s rising importance as a long-term base for globally mobile wealth.
Luxury Market Signal
● Price growth
● Wealth migration
● Super-prime demand
A market built on more than price growth
The report points to the UAE’s continued attractiveness as a business hub and wealth destination, with Dubai remaining at the centre of that story. The emirate ranked
second worldwide for growth in prime residential property prices, with values rising
25.1% in the past year and
193.9% over five years.
This is not just a price story. It is also a demand story. Transactions above
$10 million jumped from
113 deals in 2021 to
500 in 2025, underlining how strongly global wealth continues to target Dubai’s high-end residential market.
Why Dubai continues to attract wealth
Strong business and regulatory environment
Global connectivity and lifestyle appeal
Stable prime property market
Increasing preference over older wealth hubs
Abu Dhabi’s role is also expanding
Growing financial ecosystem
Stronger international buyer interest
Cultural positioning through Louvre Abu Dhabi
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi adding further global visibility
At a glance
| Indicator |
Latest Reading |
What It Suggests |
| UHNWIs in UAE by 2031 |
6,588 |
Fast-growing wealth base |
| Dubai prime price growth |
25.1% yearly |
Luxury market remains highly active |
| Five-year luxury growth |
193.9% |
One of the strongest prime market expansions globally |
| $10M+ transactions |
500 in 2025 |
Deep demand for trophy assets |
| Middle East prime growth |
9.4% |
Region remains one of the strongest luxury markets globally |
The broader picture is becoming increasingly clear: the UAE is no longer simply attracting capital, it is attracting long-term global wealth. With Dubai leading on luxury residential momentum and Abu Dhabi gaining depth as an alternative investment destination, the country is steadily strengthening its position among the world’s most important wealth migration and prime property markets.
As global investors continue searching for stability, connectivity, and quality assets, the UAE appears set to remain one of the most dynamic destinations for the ultra-wealthy over the next decade.
