Digital nomads choose UAE: Country emerges as top destination for remote workers; what's driving its global rise?
The United Arab Emirates has been ranked the second most attractive destination for digital nomads in 2025, according to the latest VisaGuide Digital Nomad Visa Index, as reported by The Economic Times.
The UAE moved up from fourth place in 2023, now surpassing countries like Montenegro, the Bahamas, and Hungary, with only Spain ahead on the list.
Strong performance across key areas
The index evaluates countries based on criteria such as internet quality, tax environment, cost of living, healthcare, and safety, areas where the UAE continues to perform well. The rise reflects not just better amenities, but also a long-term national strategy focused on remote work, innovation, and infrastructure.
Policy reforms fuel growth
The UAE's improved ranking is attributed in part to its early adoption of remote work policies. In March 2021, the country introduced a remote work visa, allowing foreign professionals to live in the UAE while working for overseas employers. This initiative led to further programs, including Dubai's Remote Work Visa and Abu Dhabi's Virtual Working Programme.
A growing global workforce
The digital nomad lifestyle has grown rapidly since the pandemic, with around 40 million people now identifying as location-independent workers.
The global remote work economy is valued at $800 billion, and projections suggest that by 2035, up to one billion people could join the digital nomad workforce.
According to experts, including Arab Digital Nomads platform founder Mohammad Alard, the UAE could strengthen its leadership by expanding affordable housing, promoting cultural assets, and building ties with global nomad communities, reported ET.
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