DUBAI: Dubai has reaffirmed its position as the global leader in greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI) within the cultural and creative industries (CCI), securing first place for the third consecutive year in the Financial Times’ fDi Markets ranking.
This achievement highlights Dubai’s sustained appeal and strategic significance as a hub for creative enterprise on the world stage.
In 2024, Dubai attracted 971 new CCI projects, marking an 8% increase compared to the previous year. Capital inflows surged to AED18.86 billion (approximately $5.13 billion), reflecting a nearly 60 per cent rise, while the city generated over 23,500 new jobs—an increase of 9 per cent.
Growth was recorded across all major CCI subsectors, including advertising, film and media production, gaming, education, and advanced software design. A notable 76.5 per cent of these ventures were wholly-owned Greenfield projects, underscoring investor confidence in Dubai’s market potential.
Innovative edge
The United States contributed the largest share of capital inflows, followed by India, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Saudi Arabia. India led in project numbers and job creation, with strong representation also from European countries. This diverse international participation reflects Dubai’s global connectivity and broad investment appeal.
Key drivers behind Dubai’s enduring attractiveness include progressive pro-business reforms, such as the 2025 Executive Council Resolution allowing free zone businesses to operate onshore, and the Zero Government Bureaucracy programme, which streamlines administrative processes.
These measures, combined with robust intellectual property protections and cutting-edge digital infrastructure, foster a regulatory environment that prioritises transparency, efficiency, and ease of doing business.
Furthermore, insights from recent studies emphasize Dubai’s innovative edge, particularly in emerging fields like immersive media and AI-driven production. The city’s access to skilled talent, competitive costs, and strategic location further enhance its standing as a premier destination for creative investments.
