Dubai’s ‘Zero Government Bureaucracy’ (ZGB) program has played a pivotal role in simplifying administrative processes, reducing unnecessary requirements, and boosting efficiency across government agencies
Dubai continues to solidify its position as a leading global hub for the creative economy, thanks to the far-reaching vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. As reported by the Financial Times’ ‘fDi Markets’ and its ‘Creative Industries Cluster’ classification, Dubai has once again achieved the top global ranking for foreign direct investment (FDI) in the cultural and creative industries (CCI) for 2024. This marks the third consecutive year that Dubai has surpassed other major cities, including London and Singapore, in attracting FDI to this sector.
Dubai’s remarkable performance underscores its pioneering role in shaping a sustainable, innovation-driven creative economy. In 2024, the emirate attracted 971 projects in the cultural and creative industries, with total FDI capital inflows amounting to AED 18.86 billion. This influx of investment has resulted in the creation of 23,517 new jobs, reflecting Dubai’s growing significance in the global cultural and creative landscape.
The strong performance of Dubai across various sub-sectors within the CCI ecosystem has played a key role in this success. These include areas such as advertising, public relations, filmmaking, media, gaming, software design, advanced technologies, and AI. The city’s ability to diversify and nurture its cultural sector has been central to its continued rise as a leading destination for international investment.
The robust government policies in Dubai have significantly contributed to the city’s success in attracting FDI. Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2025, issued by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, facilitates the expansion of free zone businesses beyond their designated zones. This policy enables companies to access a broader market while maintaining the flexibility to grow. This resolution is aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to enhance the emirate’s competitive advantages and create a dynamic business ecosystem.
Moreover, Dubai’s ‘Zero Government Bureaucracy’ (ZGB) program has played a pivotal role in simplifying administrative processes, reducing unnecessary requirements, and boosting efficiency across government agencies. The program has reinforced Dubai’s attractiveness as an investment destination by creating a more streamlined and business-friendly environment for investors, entrepreneurs, and creatives.
Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, emphasized that Dubai’s continued leadership in global FDI rankings is a testament to the city’s strategic planning, progressive policies, and commitment to fostering creativity and innovation. She highlighted that Dubai’s position as the top global destination for FDI in the cultural and creative industries signals strong investor confidence in the city’s long-term vision.
“The leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has enabled Dubai to build a dynamic cultural ecosystem that inspires creativity, attracts global talent, and fosters innovation across all levels,” Sheikha Latifa said. “Through our strategic initiatives, Dubai has become a city where ambition meets opportunity, and where creatives, entrepreneurs, and investors can turn their ideas into impactful, sustainable projects that enrich our cultural fabric.”
The city’s ability to maintain its top ranking also reflects its superior infrastructure, strong regulatory frameworks, and world-class services. Dubai’s focus on technological innovation, transparency, and investor protection has reinforced its standing as a hub for trade, tourism, and investment. These factors have made the emirate an increasingly attractive location for international capital, talent, and entrepreneurship.
In terms of global investment flows, Dubai continues to be a key partner for major countries. The United States led the charge with 23.2% of FDI capital inflows into the city’s cultural and creative industries in 2024. India and the United Kingdom followed, contributing 13.4% and 9.4%, respectively. When it comes to the number of FDI projects, India topped the list with 18.8%, followed by the United Kingdom at 16.3% and the United States at 14.2%. These results reflect Dubai’s targeted efforts in strengthening ties with key international markets, positioning itself as a critical player in the global creative economy.
Dubai’s success in attracting investments from these countries has been driven by its competitive business environment and commitment to fostering creativity. Furthermore, the city’s performance across key areas such as innovation, financial mobility, and regulatory clarity has contributed to its standing as a leader in attracting FDI.
The city’s impressive record in FDI capital inflows is also reflected in the rapid growth of the CCI sector in 2024. With nearly 60% growth in FDI capital compared to the previous year, Dubai has reinforced its reputation as a thriving hub for creative industries. Sub-sectors such as software design, media, and advanced technologies have seen the most substantial growth, highlighting the increasing importance of digital innovation within the cultural and creative industries.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), credited the city’s success to the visionary leadership of Sheikh Mohammed and the diligent execution of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. “As we continue working toward our goal of positioning Dubai among the top three urban economies globally, the creative economy has proven to be a key enabler of growth, innovation, and competitiveness,” he stated.
Dubai’s ability to attract and nurture investment in its cultural and creative sectors, while fostering innovation and creativity, has positioned it as a global leader. The emirate’s future-forward vision, coupled with a robust legal and regulatory framework, ensures that Dubai will continue to thrive as a top destination for international investment, talent, and creative endeavors.
