Dubai has once again claimed the top spot in the Savills Executive Nomad Index, maintaining its position for the third consecutive year. Abu Dhabi followed closely in second place, repeating its performance from last year.
The index ranks the best global destinations for long-term remote workers, particularly senior professionals seeking flexibility, strong infrastructure, and high quality of life.
UAE cities lead rankings
According to Savills, Dubai scored highest for its global flight connectivity, a major factor for remote professionals who value mobility. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi ranked first for internet speed, another key requirement for remote work.
“The UAE continues to deliver what today’s mobile professionals are looking for,” said Andrew Cummings, Head of Residential Agency, Middle East at Savills. “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.”
Coastal cities dominate top 10
Behind the UAE, Malaga, Miami, and Lisbon rounded out the top five, holding their positions from last year. These coastal cities offer a mix of favourable climate, modern infrastructure, and business opportunities.
Other high-ranking cities include Palma (6th) and Barcelona (7th), reinforcing the demand for destinations that combine lifestyle benefits with digital work readiness.
New entries reflect changing trends
The 2025 Savills index evaluated 30 global cities that support long-term remote work. Qualifying locations either offer digital nomad visas or allow for remote work under broader residency programmes.
New entrants this year include Auckland (9th), Tokyo (11th), Crete (15th), Vancouver (18th), and Berlin (28th).
Commenting on these additions, Kelcie Sellers, Associate Director at Savills World Research, said:
“The landscape for executive nomads is changing. Markets are creating new strategies to attract digital and executive nomads. Two new countries to our index, Canada and New Zealand, do not offer explicit digital nomad visas but instead have long-term visitor visas that have been revised to allow for fully remote employment for the duration of an individual’s stay.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
