The United Arab Emirates has achieved its highest-ever ranking on the Global Residence Program Index, rising from fifth place to joint second in the 2026 edition published by Henley & Partners — marking the country’s first appearance in the top three since the index was introduced.
A Landmark Ranking Backed by Structural Strengths
The UAE shared second place on 72 points with Italy and Switzerland, placing it ahead of countries such as Portugal, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and the United States. Greece retained first position with a score of 73.
Henley & Partners attributed the UAE’s rise to several converging factors: its growing status as a global wealth hub, a highly competitive tax environment, regulatory clarity, and well-defined long-term residency pathways that appeal to internationally mobile professionals, investors, and families.
Tax and Quality of Life Drive the Ascent
The UAE’s rapid ascent reflected its transformation into a global wealth hub supported by tax competitiveness, regulatory agility, and proactive investor engagement. The country ranked among the strongest globally for tax efficiency, alongside Monaco and Saudi Arabia, and placed in the top tier for quality of life alongside Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Switzerland.
A Shift in Global Residency Dynamics
The 2026 results signal a broader realignment in global residency preferences. Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners, noted that while Europe remains attractive, its relative dominance is declining as forward-thinking countries like the UAE engage more strategically with globally mobile investors.
The UAE is expected to record a net gain of 9,800 millionaires in 2025 — the highest of any country globally — underscoring the depth of confidence international wealth holders are placing in the Emirates as a long-term base.
For residents already living in the UAE, the ranking further validates the country’s standing as one of the world’s premier destinations for professional, business, and family life.
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