Dubai tops ‘Executive Nomad Index’ for 3rd year; Abu Dhabi in 2nd place

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Dubai has retained its position as the leading destination for executive nomads for the third consecutive year, according to the Savills Executive Nomad Index 2025, with Abu Dhabi ranking second for the second year in a row.

Dubai scored highest for its flight network, while Abu Dhabi was recognised for superior internet speeds, reflecting the UAE’s continued appeal to mobile professionals. “Add to that year-round sunshine, world-class hospitality, access to top-tier schools and healthcare, and it’s clear why the region continues to lead the way for executive nomads,” said Andrew Cummings, head of residential agency, Middle East, Savills.

The remaining top five locations — Malaga, Miami, and Lisbon — retained their positions, with Palma (6th) and Barcelona (7th) rounding out the top destinations.

All are coastal cities offering favourable climates alongside business opportunities.

Executive Nomad Index based on factors including digital nomad visa programmes

The index ranks 30 destinations for long-term remote workers based on factors including digital nomad visa programmes, quality of life, and established residential markets, with prime rents receiving half weighting in the calculations.

New entrants

Tokyo (11th), Auckland (9th), Crete (15th), Vancouver (18th) and Berlin (28th) were new additions to the index.

“The landscape for executive nomads is changing. Markets are creating new strategies to attract digital and executive nomads,” said Kelcie Sellers, associate director, Savills World Research.

She shared that countries such as Canada and New Zealand, while not offering explicit digital nomad visas, have revised long-term visitor visas to accommodate fully remote employment.