Dubai Dominates Global Greenfield FDI for Fifth Year; India Rises as Leading Investment Source

Dubai Dominates Global Greenfield FDI for Fifth Year; India Rises as Leading Investment Source​

Dubai has cemented its status as the preeminent global destination for greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI) projects, achieving this distinction for the fifth consecutive year. Data from the Financial Times Ltd’s fDi Markets database reveals that while Dubai maintained its leadership position, India stood out as a crucial source country driving this massive inflow of capital.

In 2025 alone, the volume of announced greenfield FDI projects in Dubai reached 1,253. This represents a significant surge, reflecting a 10.5 per cent increase compared to the figures recorded in 2024. The emirate secured an historic record high share of 7 per cent of all global greenfield FDI projects.

India’s Growing Footprint in Dubai’s Investment Surge​

India has established itself as the primary source country for greenfield investments in Dubai, according to the latest reporting. Indian entities accounted for 241 projects, constituting 19 per cent of the total FDI projects announced in Dubai during 2025. These commitments carried a substantial capital investment amounting to $1.65 billion.

This strong performance underscores the rising confidence multinational businesses have in operating within the dynamic market environment of Dubai. The city continues to attract major investments across several key high-impact sectors.

Dominating Key High-Impact Sectors​

Dubai’s attractiveness is diversified across multiple critical industries, positioning it as a global hub for varied capital flows. Leading investment streams include those focused on food and beverages, electronic components, healthcare, and cleantech technologies.

Furthermore, the emirate demonstrated robust appeal in other major areas such as business machines and equipment, metals, and e-commerce. This breadth of interest highlights Dubai's maturity as a diversified international business center.

Expert View: Confidence Underpins Sustained Growth​

Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), emphasized that maintaining global leadership in Greenfield FDI attraction is a direct reflection of ongoing confidence among international investors.

Almarri noted that despite navigating periods of considerable volatility within global markets, Dubai started this period with measurable momentum. He stated that the arrival of record levels of capital has established a robust foundation necessary for sustained and steady growth moving forward.