Dubai Dominates Global Wealth Migration in 2025 as Millionaires Flee Traditional Powerhouses

The world’s elite are on the move — and they’re taking their fortunes with them. According to the newly released Henley Private Wealth Migration Report 2025, a record-breaking 142,000 millionaires are expected to relocate internationally this year, with that number projected to surge to 165,000 in 2026.

These high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) — defined as those holding over $1 million in liquid assets — are reshaping the global economic map as they search for tax-friendly, stable, and investment-friendly destinations.

UAE: The World’s New Wealth Capital

For the third consecutive year, the United Arab Emirates is leading the millionaire migration wave. In 2025 alone, the country is set to welcome an unprecedented 9,800 new millionaires, a sharp rise from 6,700 in 2024.

Experts attribute the UAE’s popularity to its zero personal income tax, world-class infrastructure, political stability, and its highly attractive Golden Visa program, offering long-term residency options for investors and wealthy expatriates.
“It’s the lifestyle, the tax benefits, and the sense of security that’s drawing wealthy individuals to the UAE,” noted Nuri Katz, a specialist in global investment migration.

US Holds Its Ground

The United States remains the second-most popular destination, expected to attract 7,500 millionaires in 2025. Programs like the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa, which has already injected over $50 billion in foreign direct investment into the American economy, continue to appeal to affluent migrants seeking opportunity and security.

Italy, Switzerland, and Saudi Arabia follow in the rankings, with Saudi Arabia notably attracting 2,400 millionaires — an eightfold increase from the previous year, reflecting the kingdom’s aggressive push to modernize and diversify its economy.

UK Leads in Wealth Exodus

On the flip side, the United Kingdom tops the list of millionaire outflows, with an estimated 16,500 HNWIs expected to leave in 2025.
Once a haven for the rich, the UK has struggled since Brexit, as rising taxes and political uncertainty push the wealthy to seek safer, more profitable havens abroad.

China, India, and South Korea are also witnessing significant wealth departures, while France, Spain, Germany, and even traditionally stable nations like Norway and Sweden are experiencing steady outflows of affluent residents.

While some of these millionaires may not physically leave their home countries, many are securing second citizenships, residencies, and homes abroad as a contingency plan.