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Smart Investment Opportunities Emerging Across the UAE

Smart Investment Opportunities Emerging Across the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become one of the most dynamic and rapidly transforming economies in the Middle East. With visionary leadership, pro-business policies, and world-class infrastructure, the UAE is increasingly becoming a global hub for trade, tourism, innovation, and finance. In recent years, it has also emerged as a hotbed for smart investment opportunities across various sectors. Whether you are an individual investor or an institutional fund, the UAE offers a diverse portfolio of opportunities with the potential for significant returns. If you are wondering where to invest money in UAE, this article provides a deep dive into the emerging and smart investment options in the region.
The UAE's investment environment is backed by a stable government, a diversified economy, and progressive economic reforms. The country's strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa provides easy access to global markets. Furthermore, with the introduction of investor-friendly regulations such as 100% foreign ownership in many sectors and long-term golden visas, the UAE has significantly enhanced its appeal to foreign investors.
Over the last decade, the focus has moved beyond traditional sectors like oil and gas to new-age industries, making the UAE a fertile ground for smart and forward-looking investment decisions.
1. Real Estate Reinvented: Tech-Driven and Diversified
Real estate has long been a favorite sector for investors in the UAE, especially in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, recent years have seen a transformation in this sector with the integration of smart technologies and new business models. PropTech Integration : From virtual property tours to AI-driven price analysis, the real estate market in the UAE is rapidly adopting PropTech to enhance transparency and efficiency.
: From virtual property tours to AI-driven price analysis, the real estate market in the UAE is rapidly adopting PropTech to enhance transparency and efficiency. Luxury and Sustainable Living : Green buildings and sustainable communities like Masdar City are drawing environmentally conscious investors.
: Green buildings and sustainable communities like Masdar City are drawing environmentally conscious investors. Holiday Homes and Short-Term Rentals: The rise of platforms like Airbnb and Dubai's booming tourism sector have made short-term rentals an increasingly attractive real estate investment.
With the real estate market recovering post-COVID and Expo 2020 legacy projects boosting demand, property in the UAE continues to be a solid investment — especially when approached with a tech-savvy mindset.
2. Renewable Energy: Powering the Future
As the world pivots towards sustainability, the UAE has taken significant strides in renewable energy. The government has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and is investing billions in clean energy. Masdar : The Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company is a leader in renewable energy and clean technologies.
: The Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company is a leader in renewable energy and clean technologies. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park : One of the largest solar parks globally, offering opportunities in solar energy investment.
: One of the largest solar parks globally, offering opportunities in solar energy investment. Green Bonds: The UAE has begun issuing green bonds and sukuks, giving investors sustainable financial instruments with attractive yields.
Investing in the renewable sector not only aligns with global ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) goals but also offers long-term profitability as demand for clean energy surges worldwide.
3. Technology and Innovation: The Silicon Oasis of the Middle East
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are actively cultivating ecosystems for startups and tech companies. The UAE government's heavy investments in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and digital infrastructure have created a vibrant tech landscape. FinTech : Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is home to several FinTech hubs and incubators.
: Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is home to several FinTech hubs and incubators. AI and Robotics : With initiatives like the UAE AI Strategy 2031, startups working in AI are finding a supportive ecosystem.
: With initiatives like the UAE AI Strategy 2031, startups working in AI are finding a supportive ecosystem. HealthTech and EdTech: Growing demand for digital health solutions and online education is creating lucrative investment opportunities in these sub-sectors.
The UAE's openness to innovation, access to capital, and a robust regulatory framework make its tech sector a promising space for both venture capital and private equity investors.
4. Tourism and Hospitality: Beyond Sun and Sand
Tourism remains a vital pillar of the UAE economy, but it is evolving rapidly. No longer just a luxury destination, the country is now a center for cultural, medical, and adventure tourism. Cultural Tourism : Projects like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Dubai Opera are enhancing the country's cultural credentials.
: Projects like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Dubai Opera are enhancing the country's cultural credentials. Wellness and Medical Tourism : World-class hospitals and wellness resorts are drawing international medical tourists.
: World-class hospitals and wellness resorts are drawing international medical tourists. Luxury Desert Retreats and Eco-Tourism: There is growing demand for unique, sustainable travel experiences across the UAE.
Investors can look into hotel development, travel technology startups, or tourism-focused real estate for high returns, especially with major global events like COP28 boosting global visibility.
5. Healthcare and Biotechnology: A Safe Bet for the Future
The healthcare sector in the UAE is undergoing rapid transformation driven by population growth, lifestyle changes, and government spending. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine and digital health. Private Hospitals and Clinics : High demand for quality healthcare is boosting investment in premium medical facilities.
: High demand for quality healthcare is boosting investment in premium medical facilities. Medical Tourism : As mentioned, the UAE is a preferred destination for specialized treatments.
: As mentioned, the UAE is a preferred destination for specialized treatments. Biotech and Pharmaceuticals: The government is promoting domestic production of drugs and medical devices.
Healthcare and biotech offer both long-term security and innovation-driven growth, making them attractive for both strategic and passive investors.
6. Logistics and E-Commerce Infrastructure: Riding the Digital Wave
The surge in e-commerce, especially post-pandemic, has created a demand for advanced logistics and warehousing solutions. The UAE's central location and world-class transport infrastructure make it ideal for investment in this space. Smart Warehousing : Investments in AI-powered logistics centers that offer same-day or next-day delivery services.
: Investments in AI-powered logistics centers that offer same-day or next-day delivery services. Supply Chain Tech : Platforms that use blockchain and IoT to track shipments and inventory.
: Platforms that use blockchain and IoT to track shipments and inventory. E-Commerce Platforms: While Amazon and Noon dominate, there is room for niche e-commerce players and aggregators.
With Dubai and Abu Dhabi aiming to become regional e-commerce hubs, logistics and digital retail infrastructure present highly scalable investment options.
7. Education: Nurturing the Knowledge Economy
The UAE's ambition to become a global knowledge hub is reflected in its investments in education. Private education, edtech, and training services are all sectors experiencing significant demand. International Schools : With a large expatriate population, demand for British, American, and IB-curriculum schools remains high.
: With a large expatriate population, demand for British, American, and IB-curriculum schools remains high. Vocational and Online Learning : The future workforce is increasingly seeking flexible, skills-based learning, opening avenues for online education platforms.
: The future workforce is increasingly seeking flexible, skills-based learning, opening avenues for online education platforms. Corporate Training and Executive Education: Professional development and upskilling are in focus across industries.
Investing in the education sector aligns with national development goals and offers consistent demand-driven growth.
8. Agriculture and Food Security: Investing in Essentials
Despite being located in an arid region, the UAE is pioneering smart agriculture through vertical farming, hydroponics, and AI-based monitoring systems. Food security has become a top priority, particularly after global supply chain disruptions. AgriTech : Smart farms are producing fresh produce year-round with minimal water and energy use.
: Smart farms are producing fresh produce year-round with minimal water and energy use. Food Processing and Packaging : Local production facilities are needed to reduce import dependency.
: Local production facilities are needed to reduce import dependency. Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture: The UAE is also investing in marine food sustainability.
This is an emerging yet essential investment area, offering long-term returns as the region aims for greater food independence.
9. Financial Services and Private Equity: Building Wealth in the GCC
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are evolving into key financial hubs not just for the UAE but for the entire GCC region. From wealth management to Islamic finance, opportunities abound. Private Equity and Venture Capital Funds : Backing high-growth startups or mid-market enterprises across the UAE.
: Backing high-growth startups or mid-market enterprises across the UAE. Digital Banking : Neo-banks and FinTech apps tailored to younger populations are on the rise.
: Neo-banks and FinTech apps tailored to younger populations are on the rise. Wealth Management Services: There's growing demand for Sharia-compliant investment services and multi-family office structures.
With a growing investor base and economic liberalization, financial services present a highly dynamic sector for both institutional and high-net-worth investors.
10. Free Zones and Special Economic Areas: Incentivized Investment
Free zones continue to be one of the UAE's most attractive offerings for international investors. These zones offer benefits such as full foreign ownership, zero income tax, and simplified company setup. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) : Ideal for trade and commodities.
: Ideal for trade and commodities. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) : A financial free zone focused on banking, asset management, and FinTech.
: A financial free zone focused on banking, asset management, and FinTech. Dubai Internet City and Dubai Silicon Oasis: Perfect for IT, software, and electronics startups.
Investing in businesses within these zones can offer high growth with minimized risk and taxation.
Conclusion: A Future-Ready Investment Destination
The UAE's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and diversification is reshaping its investment ecosystem. From real estate and renewable energy to technology, education, and food security, the opportunities are diverse, smart, and forward-thinking.
Investors looking to make meaningful, future-ready financial decisions should keep a close eye on emerging sectors and capitalize on early-mover advantages. With regulatory support, world-class infrastructure, and a vision-driven leadership, the UAE is well-positioned to remain one of the most attractive investment destinations globally.
TIME BUSINESS NEWS
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28 Under-$25 Travel Finds To Make Your Next Trip Breezy
28 Under-$25 Travel Finds To Make Your Next Trip Breezy

Buzz Feed

time8 hours ago

  • Buzz Feed

28 Under-$25 Travel Finds To Make Your Next Trip Breezy

A luggage drink caddy to hold your essentials (iced latte, breakfast, emotional support water bottle) while you stay on top of the boarding passes and passports. This helpful holder attaches right to your luggage handles and can be quickly slipped on and off for max travel efficiency. The airport staff will all definitely agree you're the smoothest traveler they've ever seen — not that we care what they think... A pair of anti-nausea acupressure wristbands if you've been dreaming of lying deck-side with your piña colada but know your body may have other plans. These bands work by applying pressure to the Nei-Kuan point, which can help alleviate symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Reviewers with motion sickness have tested them against car, flight, and sea sickness and say they actually work — turning even skeptics into very thankful believers. A cosmetic bag that holds *so many* products and keeps them all organized in little compartments (including a center zipper-pouch to separate your brushes and keep the bag clean — genius). One reviewer says it's like having a vanity with you on vacation! It has a super elegant, chic look and can be opened flat to see everything inside, so no more dumping everything out and taking up the already very limited hotel counter space. A collapsable trunk organizer for those "uh-oh" road-trip moments when you hear all your travel gear rolling around the back after hitting a particularly ~sharp~ turn. The compartments and pockets are perfect for organizing all your essentials, and it's ultra-sturdy so they can even be stacked on one another! Or, it can be partially collapsed and put in the passenger seat to hold all your roadtrip snacks — Arizona tea and yogurt pretzels, anyone? A pack of body wipes if you're traveling somewhere with limited showers, need to clean off that icky feeling after a long flight, or just want to quickly freshen up before dinner after a day of sweaty sightseeing. These wipes have an oh-so-refreshing blend of antibacterial and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and oatmeal to help keep your skin hydrated while reducing grime. Reviewers love how large they are (12x12!), how gentle they feel on sensitive skin, and best of all, that they do 👏 not 👏 tear. A neck pillow-eye mask hybrid so you can finally catch some travel zzz's *without* that awful crick in your neck (or jolting awake when you feel yourself leaning toward the stranger in the middle seat). This design is *truly* innovative — it attaches to the flaps of a plane's (or car's!) headrest and uses the eye mask to keep your head in place for total 360-degree support. And the fact that reviewers say the Velcro doesn't catch on hair might just make it the answer to all your sleeping woes. A Tessan universal travel adapter that'll take all the thought out of charging your essentials (because you've got other things to worry about, like how the heck to get to the Airbnb). This little powerhouse works in over 200 countries and can plug in up to six devices at once (watch out for max watts, tho!), truly living by the motto "no device left behind". And it does it all while being a super portable little cube! A waterproof electronics organizer with a double-layer design so you'll know exactly where your chargers are — instead of rummaging in your bag, pulling out everything but what you need. It has different slots and compartments to keep your wires tangle-free and a spongey interior to cushion all your gadgets, and reviewers especially appreciate the bright color options so they can quickly spot it in their bag! Luggage-connector straps that'll make life a little easier for all the designated bag holders out there (we thank you for your service). These straps attach along the tops of your wheeled suitcases to create a train of luggage so you can stroll more smoothly with everything in tow. Reviewers have used these to securely transport five (and even eight) suitcases at once! Or, a bungee luggage strap so you don't need to lug your personal item on your back or constantly catch it when it slips off your carry-on. These adjustable straps stretch to hold your extra bags firmly to your luggage *and* have an easy slip-on design so you won't be fumbling when it's time to put everything away in the plane (and there's a line of people waiting behind you 😥). The Uniqlo crossbody bag if you don't want to carry a ton, but still want *just* enough space to keep your hands water bottle free. This super sleek bag has little details that make it a great travel companion, like roomy space and pockets so your essentials are *always* ready and organized when you're running out the door to make that reservation. Plus, it keeps everything close to your body and safe from rogue pickpockets — not today, sticky fingers, not today. Or an RFID-blocking travel pouch you can wear as a crossbody, over your neck, and even under your shirt for max security. It's got a super slim, lay-flat design and compartments with zippers that'll keep your valuables extra secure — so next time you're in a packed train, you can quickly place everything out of sight instead of keeping a steel-tight grip on your bag. A collapsible water bottle because while you and your 30-ounce Stanley may be attached at the hip (lips? straw?), it's admittedly not the most travel-friendly. This ultra-lightweight bottle has, literally, got layers to it. It holds 16 ounces of water and has a collapse-as-you-go design, so you're never taking up unnecessary space in your bag. And if you don't have the room to spare, no problem — it's got a nifty little carabiner built right in. A set of *compression* packing cubes that don't just keep all your clothes organized, but have some double-zipper action that helps squeeze all the extra air out (i.e., space for more options). What's left are super dense, super compact cubes that save up to 40% of space — which is especially helpful if you love the thrill of carrying two week's worth of clothes in a carry-on. Now you can easily pack double the amount of underwear you could ever need for your trip... ya know, just in case. A pack of travel-size laundry detergent because a capsule wardrobe is all fine and dandy until the staple plain white tee starts getting some pit stains. These liquid packets are safe for most fabrics, gentle on sensitive skin (unscented!), and work whether you're handwashing in a sink or using a machine. They'll leave your clothes stain-free and smelling fresh *without* having to use up your daily meal budget on laundering fees. And a portable travel clothesline so no matter where you are, you won't be plagued by a slightly musty, clothes-didn't-dry-all-the-way smell (iykyk). The lightweight line is made of a stretchy bungee material with hooks on each end for easy looping, has attached clips and stoppers that keep everything from bunching in the center, *and* can be lengthened or shortened. It's perfect for outdoor trips or travels abroad (because fair warning, the rest of the world isn't too keen on dryers). A set of macrame hat clips that'll be an extra set of hands keeping your sunhat crumple-free and photo-ready. It's super easy to hook onto the strap of your tote and strong, so you can even put it on the side of your luggage (which admittedly, we could be a little more gentle with) without worrying that it'll come flying off. A microfiber travel towel that won't track in all the sand from your beach day back to the hotel room thanks to its sand-resistant material (plus, the ones the hotel provides are normally too itty-bitty anyway). These towels are thin and lightweight enough to roll up for easy carrying, yet still super absorbent and quick-drying! And with vibrant colors and designs (that don't fade, BTW) you'll be suntanning in style. A mini handheld fan, the ultimate budget travel find that has not one, not two, but three functions! You're overheating in line at a theme park? No prob, turn on those (quiet! powerful!) blades. It's hour five of sightseeing and your phone's out of juice? Oh, it's also a portable charger. You take an evening hike and the sun goes down a little *too* fast? Yeah, it's a flashlight too (and brighter than a phone)! It does everything so well, you may even experience a divine awakening, like one reviewer did. A pack of Liquid I.V. for an extra boost of electrolytes that can help you stay hydrated on those days you hit 25,000 steps (and your body feels every single one). These drink mixes can really come in handy after a particularly sweaty day of sightseeing or a ~long night out~. Plus, they're individually packed and quickly dissolve in water, so perfect for on-the-go use! The Megababe odor-blocking foot spray, because when we're trekking through our Euro-summer itinerary for ten hours, our feet aren't exactly gonna smell minty fresh — until now. The ~magic~ of the spray is in the tea tree oil, which is anti-microbial and can help fight odor-causing bacteria *before* they have a chance to stink. Simply spritz the minty lavender "toe deo" on clean, dry feet for hours-long protection that has saved reviewers from those grueling, fume-producing 10-hour and 12-hour shifts. A Gold Bond Friction Defense stick because there are fewer things that can kill your vacay vibe like chafing (*shudder*). The stick's formula easily glides onto skin and can be put anywhere where friction occurs, like between thighs and under your clothes or gear. It creates a barrier against chafing without feeling greasy, has aloe to soothe any roughed-up skin, *and* reviewers say it holds up against sweat or getting wet! For anyone who has gone to an amusement park only to end the day with a limping, circular walk, this one's for us. An airplane pocket organizer that'll save you the hassle of rummaging through your bag mid-flight searching for the elusive ChapStick. It hangs from the pocket in front of your seat and can be pre-packed with all the wipes, chargers, and entertainment you'll need (it even has a spot to hang your wireless headphones from!). Reviewers say it doesn't take up any leg room and is *so* convenient to slip back into their personal item at the end of their flight without worrying they've forgotten anything. A 16-piece travel toiletries set to take away the worry that your must-have products won't make it through TSA unscathed. This comes with all the leakproof bottles and jars you'll need to carry your faves (including scoopers and a funnel for easy transfer!) *and* stores them in a clear, reusable TSA-approved bag, so you can rest easy knowing your skin and hair routines are safe. Or, a set of leakproof toiletry sleeves for your larger bottles because when you land, you want to be "go go go!" — not staying in to wash your clothes after your favorite lotion explodes. These elastics can stretch and mold over most full-sized bottles (minus anything with a pump — tho you can always try separating the top!) and if they catch any leaks, they are super easy to rinse out and reuse. A foldable jewelry organizer that'll replace that Ziploc bag so you'll actually wear your jewelry — not leave it in a tangled mess you'll deal with when you get home. It has handy elements to keep your bling organized (and scratch-free!), like a roll for your rings, an earring panel, buckles for your necklaces, and little zipper compartments for everything else. The soft material is slim and packs nicely, and it's especially helpful if you're going the carry-on only, capsule wardrobe route and need someplace to store the ✨ accessories ✨ that'll make each outfit feel new! A sleek travel wallet so you're not scrambling for your passport under the penetrating, impatient gaze of the TSA agent. It has *tons* of space to organize all the currencies, cards, documents, and passports (yes, plural; it fits two!) you need for your trip — even a handy little pen holder so it won't get lost in the black hole that is your personal item. And it has RFID blocking, so it helps protect your private info and gives you a little extra peace of mind. A foldable duffel perfect for when your luggage is full, but you just know you're going to be coming back with trinkets and souvenirs galore. It's super lightweight yet durable, and can be used as a personal item that fits under the seat of an airplane — yes, the smaller airlines too!

What if Airbnb Builds the Killer AI Travel Search App?
What if Airbnb Builds the Killer AI Travel Search App?

Skift

time14 hours ago

  • Skift

What if Airbnb Builds the Killer AI Travel Search App?

Airbnb is hiring an engineer for an AI-powered natural language search product. If the tech delivers, it could create new creative pressure in shaping how people choose where to go and stay. Airbnb is preparing to rebuild its internal search engine with generative AI at the core. In a recent job posting for a search infrastructure engineer, the company outlined plans for a 'next generation search platform' designed to support 'generative AI (large language model) use cases.' Candidates with expertise in search and recommendation systems are encouraged to apply, and experience with GenAI or LLMs is listed as a preferred qualification. Search is one of the most critical components of Airbnb's business. It determines how guests discover homes and experiences, and how hosts reach customers. And while Airbnb has not made any public announcements about an AI-native search product, the technical scope and job description point to ambitions beyond incremental improvements. The listing suggests Airbnb is looking to reconstruct its core search product to accommodate AI. The new platform is described as one that will 'power different products at Airbnb,' suggesting that generative AI could become a foundational layer across the company's marketplace. In response to a request for comment, an Airbnb spokesperson said the company is 'always working to enhance the overall Airbnb experience' and is 'actively seeking talented individuals who share our mission to transform the way people travel.' Give Me a Room With a View If Airbnb succeeds in launching a functional AI-powered search system, the move could change how travelers interact with the platform. Traditional travel search engines rely on structured inputs: location, dates, price filters, and a fixed set of amenities. Generative AI has the potential to interpret natural language queries, understand user context, and return relevant results with fewer steps and less manual sorting. For example, instead of filtering by location and bedroom count, a guest might enter a query such as 'a quiet place in the mountains with fast Wi-Fi, a hot tub, and a view' – and receive listings that match even if the keywords don't align exactly. Several other travel companies have begun integrating AI tools into their platforms, including chat-based trip planning assistants and personalization features. When Data is King But Airbnb may be in a stronger position than some of its competitors to make that shift. The company has access to a large volume of structured and unstructured data: millions of listings with detailed attributes, user-generated reviews, booking behavior, search history, and messaging between hosts and guests. This data could support the training or fine-tuning of models capable of delivering more personalized and accurate search outcomes. Airbnb also owns its entire supply-side platform. Unlike online travel agencies that depend on inventory from third-party providers and hotel chains, Airbnb's listings are user-generated and directly managed on its system. That vertical integration provides a cleaner dataset and more flexibility in how results are ranked and surfaced, key advantages for any machine learning application. The introduction of a new AI-native search system could also create competitive pressure in the broader travel sector. Google, Booking Holdings, and Expedia Group have all made recent announcements about generative AI experiments, including itinerary generation and trip planning tools. Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky has previously hinted at AI's potential role in product discovery, referring in past earnings calls to a vision of Airbnb as a kind of intelligent travel concierge. A generative AI system could take that vision further, allowing for contextual, conversational discovery that adapts to different user intents in real time. The company has not disclosed what timeline it is working toward, what specific models it may be using, or whether it intends to partner with external AI vendors or develop proprietary solutions. The job posting does not mention OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, or any of the major LLM providers by name. Beyond the Short-Term Rental What if Airbnb is thinking bigger than site search? There's a huge world of travel beyond short-term rental listings and its new experiences product. Airbnb's focus on design and its ability to attract talent put it in a position to compete in ways that other travel brands can't. Chesky also has a strong relationship with Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI. They've known each other since the 2000s, first at Y Combinator, the startup accelerator. And Altman has talked about the counsel Chesky gave him at OpenAI. Airbnb has always had ambitions beyond booking a room, and the focus on AI search will help it compete against players like Expedia when it comes to airline search or any other part of the travel journey.

The reverse migration: African Americans relocating to Kenya cite heritage and restoration
The reverse migration: African Americans relocating to Kenya cite heritage and restoration

The Hill

timea day ago

  • The Hill

The reverse migration: African Americans relocating to Kenya cite heritage and restoration

NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Kenneth Harris spent most of his days in Atlanta yearning for a life in a place where his dark skin color is not a source of suspicion, but a mark of a shared heritage. His chance came two years ago when he bought a one-way ticket to Kenya. The 38-year-old retired veteran has found a community in the east African country's capital, where he now runs an Airbnb business. He loves admiring Nairobi's golden sunset from a rooftop terrace, and enjoys a luxurious lifestyle in a tastefully furnished apartment in an upmarket neighborhood. Harris is part of a growing wave of African Americans who are relocating to Kenya, citing the need to connect with their ancestors — or 'coming home,' a phrase often used among the Black community. Like dozens of other African Americans who have moved to Nairobi in recent years, Harris was attracted to Kenya's tropical climate and what he describes as the warmth and friendliness of the people he believes he shares a history and culture with. In search of community and a better life 'I have always had that adventurous spirit, especially when I joined the military and got to go to different countries. So I am taking the opportunity to venture out to new places,' he said. 'That is what allowed me to make a home away from home and Kenya is my new home.' Some friends have been reaching out to him to explore a 'change from the U.S for their peace of mind,' he said. Several other African Americans who have 'come home' like him have set up thriving businesses in Nairobi that include travel agencies, restaurants and farms. Many African Americans who have sought a better life abroad or are considering it said President Donald Trump's administration — with its crackdown on diversity programs — isn't the main reason they want to move. Rather, most say they had been mulling a move for some time, and the current political environment in the U.S. may be pushing them to act sooner than initially planned. 'I can't say the administration is the reason why the people I know want to part ways from America. Some are planning to move for a better quality of living life,' Harris said. Auston Holleman, an American YouTuber who has lived in various countries for almost a decade, said he settled on Kenya nine months ago because people 'look like me.' 'It is not like going to Europe or going to some Latin American countries where there are not many Black people,' he said. Holleman, who often films his daily life, said he felt that the social fabric in the U.S. was 'broken.' In contrast, he said he felt socially accepted in Kenya. He cited an experience when his taxi driver's car stopped, and in five minutes they got help from a random stranger. 'That made me realize I was in the right place,' he said. Growing numbers are interested in leaving the US Other African countries have attracted even larger numbers of African Americans. Ghana, which launched a 'Year of the Return' program to attract the Black diaspora in 2019, said last year it held a ceremony that granted citizenship to 524 people, mostly Black Americans. African American businesses such as Adilah Relocation Services have seen a notable rise in the number of African Americans seeking to move to Kenya. The company's founder, Adilah Mohammad, moved to Kenya four days after her mother's funeral in search of healing. She says the peace and restoration she experienced in Kenya made her stay — and advocate for those searching for the same. Her company helps clients relocate by house hunting, shopping for furniture and ensuring banking and medical services are seamless. 'There are 15 families that have come so far, and we have five more on the calendar that are coming in the next 90 days. We have people that have booked for 2026 with no date, they just know that they are leaving,' she says. Mohammad said many African Americans have been planning their move for decades. 'For me it is a movement. It is people deciding to make a choice for themselves, they are not being forced, shackles are being broken. When they say they are coming home, they are choosing to be free and it is mental freedom and so I am ecstatic,' she says. Experts say African economies are likely to benefit from these moves, especially from those willing to tackle corruption and create a healthy environment for investors. Raphael Obonyo, a public policy expert at U.N-Habitat, says the U.S is losing resources — as well as the popular narrative that America is the land of opportunities and dreams. 'This reverse migration is denting that narrative, so America is most likely to lose including things like brain drain,' he explained. For Mohammad, the sense of belonging has given her peace within. 'I love being here. Returning to Africa is one thing, but finding the place that you feel like you belong is another,' she said. _____________ The Associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Gates Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at

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