Dubai Leads in Greenfield FDI Projects for Creative Industries
Dubai ranks first globally for attracting Greenfield FDI Projects in cultural and creative industries (CCI).
Consistent Global Leadership
Dubai maintained its top global position for Greenfield FDI Projects for the third consecutive year. It surpassed 233 cities, outperforming major global hubs like London and Singapore in 2024.
Remarkable Investment Growth
Dubai attracted 971 creative industry projects in 2024, showing an 8% year-on-year increase. FDI inflows reached AED18.86 billion, with 23,517 new jobs created — a 9% rise from 2023. This growth reflects global investor confidence in Dubai’s vibrant and supportive creative economy.
Strategic Vision Fuels Success
H.H. Sheikha Latifa credited the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed for this sustained success. She highlighted Dubai’s growing role as a global creative economy leader and innovation hub. Strong leadership has shaped an ecosystem that welcomes talent, nurtures ideas, and fosters growth.
Robust Supportive Policies
New government policies strengthened investor confidence in Dubai’s creative sector. Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2025 boosted business expansion beyond free zones. The ‘Zero Government Bureaucracy’ programme also simplified processes and improved government service efficiency. Dubai Culture introduced grants supporting galleries in international art fairs, boosting global visibility.
Targeted Global Partnerships
The U.S. led FDI capital inflows, followed by India, the UK, Switzerland, and Saudi Arabia. India led in project numbers and job creation, followed by the UK and the U.S. These results reflect Dubai’s strong ties with key global investment markets and creative leaders.
Sector-Wide Contributions
Dubai’s creative economy includes filmmaking, AI software, design, advertising, and cultural education.
Advanced technology services and media production attracted major global investments. Sub-sectors like PR, computer programming, and digital engineering showed strong investor interest.
Greenfield Projects Dominate
Greenfield FDI Projects made up 76.5% of total FDI in the creative sector in 2024. Reinvestments followed with 5.6%, while new investments reached 15.4%, and mergers at 2.4%.
Dubai’s Long-Term Goals
The Dubai Economic Agenda D33 aims to place Dubai among the world’s top three economies. The Creative Economy Strategy targets a 5% GDP contribution from creative industries by 2026.
Global Magnet for Talent and Investment
Dubai’s regulatory clarity, IP protection, and innovation culture attract top talent and global capital. The city remains a beacon for creative investors and a vibrant cultural destination worldwide.