Dubai has been recognized as the leading city in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and fifth globally in the 2024 Global City Index by Brand Finance, a leap that underscores its growing influence on the global stage. With an impressive score of 86 out of 100, Dubai has surpassed prominent global cities such as Singapore, Los Angeles, Sydney, San Francisco, and Amsterdam, which ranked from sixth to tenth, respectively.
This milestone highlights Dubai’s consistent rise in global rankings, propelled by strategic initiatives under the Dubai Plan 2030, as affirmed by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. His Highness attributed the city’s achievements to the visionary leadership of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, noting that Dubai’s ongoing transformation exemplifies its commitment to excellence and economic progress.
Dubai’s success in the 2024 Index comes from its outstanding performance across multiple categories, including ranking first globally for investment desirability and future growth potential. The city also took the top position in global reputation, advancing from seventh place in 2023 and outpacing cities like Sydney and London. Additionally, Dubai ranked fourth worldwide for local work opportunities and remote work appeal, moving up from 24th last year.
Further driving Dubai’s prominence is its strong economic foundation, ranking second globally, supported by its strategic role as an international trade hub, advanced logistics infrastructure, and advantageous geographical location bridging the East and West. Dubai’s low corporate tax rates and investor-friendly policies continue to make it an attractive destination for businesses and residents alike.
The city has also earned accolades in education and connectivity, placing highly in indices for both private and publicly funded schools, as well as in ease of obtaining visas and local and international connectivity. Dubai’s performance across these sectors reflects its vision to become a future-focused, globally competitive city, with initiatives like the Dubai Future Foundation contributing to its robust start-up and innovation ecosystem.
In MENA, Dubai led across all performance indicators, excelling in metrics related to investment, education, work, and tourism, reaffirming its position as the premier city in the region for the second consecutive year.
