UAE Ranked #1 for Entrepreneurship—Why It’s a Game-Changer for Real Estate Investors

UAE Ranks #1 for Entrepreneurship—Here’s What That Means for Global Real Estate Investors

The UAE has once again been named #1 in the world for entrepreneurship—for the fourth year in a row—according to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2024/2025 Report. As a global Realtor® guiding investors into Dubai, California, and Spain, I see this milestone as much more than a headline. It’s a green light for international investors, especially from the U.S. and Canada, to get serious about Dubai as a top-tier destination for real estate and business growth.

What the GEM Ranking Really Means

The GEM Report ranks countries based on their entrepreneurial ecosystem—and the UAE now leads globally in 11 out of 13 indicators, including:

• Access to finance
• Government support and policies
• Education and training
• Infrastructure
• Market dynamics and ease of entry

This kind of recognition doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a result of strategic investments, forward-thinking leadership, and a clear vision for growth—and it directly impacts real estate demand, population growth, and investor confidence.

When a country is ranked the best place to start and grow a business, you can expect people from around the world to move there, build there, and invest there. All of these factors create strong tailwinds for Dubai’s real estate market.

Business + Real Estate = Opportunity

In my latest Dubai Connect Podcast™ episode, I spoke with Nadia Al Ameri, a true powerhouse in international tax and legal consulting. As the Founder of ACCU Group and Director of Accutax Consultancy in the UAE, Nadia has been at the forefront of the GCC region’s tax evolution. She’s one of the first tax experts in the region, and her expertise spans sectors like real estate, private equity, investment banking, fintech, and international trade.

Nadia shared key insights about how easy it is to open a business in Dubai today—especially as a foreign investor. With 100% foreign ownership now permitted across many sectors, zero income tax, and a highly digitized setup process, the UAE has intentionally made entrepreneurship and investment accessible, efficient, and attractive.

For real estate investors, this creates a dual opportunity: Own property and establish business operations in the same tax-friendly jurisdiction—backed by clear regulations and a stable legal framework.

Why North American Investors Should Pay Attention

As a first-generation Arab-American, I understand how daunting it can be to invest abroad—especially in a region that feels unfamiliar. But my mission, through GG Benitez International and the Dubai Connect Podcast™, is to make it simple, trustworthy, and exciting for North American investors.

Here’s what you should know:

• Dubai real estate remains tax-free—no property tax, no capital gains tax, no income tax on rental revenue.
• Off-plan properties offer flexible payment plans, often with 0% interest during construction.
• The Golden Visa is available to investors who purchase qualifying property worth AED 2M or more (with the Oqood).
• The UAE is one of the safest countries in the world and has built an ecosystem that supports foreign ownership in both property and business.

The Bigger Picture: A Nation Designed for Growth

The UAE’s vision goes beyond just rankings. Initiatives like “Projects of the 50” have infused billions into infrastructure and innovation, and Dubai continues to draw entrepreneurs, families, and corporations from all corners of the globe.

Today, you’ll find:

• Fully developed, walkable cities like Expo City Dubai
• Waterfront master-planned communities like EMAAR Creek Harbour and Dubai Islands
• A population that’s 80% expat, speaking English and thriving in a safe, opportunity-driven environment

This isn’t just economic theory. It’s a lived reality. One that’s resulting in record-breaking real estate transactions, high rental yields, and exponential demand.

Final Thoughts

The UAE being ranked the #1 country for entrepreneurship four years in a row isn’t just about business. It’s about creating the kind of environment that fuels real estate success. A place where global citizens—especially investors from North America—can own property, launch businesses, and build wealth.

If you’re ready to explore Dubai, I’m here to guide you through every step—because real estate isn’t just about the property. It’s about understanding the bigger picture.

Listen to the full interview with Nadia Al Ameri on the Dubai Connect Podcast™ and explore your opportunities in Dubai.

Contact: Ghada “GG” Benitez CEO, GG Benitez International Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS®) Licensed Realtor®

📩 Contact Me:
📍 Website: GG Benitez International
📧 Email: GG@GGBenitezInternational.com
📲 WhatsApp: +1-619-339-7978

🚀 Don’t miss out on Dubai’s investment boom—get in touch now!