DUBAI: Dubai has once again claimed the top global spot for attracting Greenfield FDI in cultural and creative industries (CCI) in 2024. Beating out 233 cities including London and Singapore, the emirate attracted 971 projects and AED18.86 billion in capital, creating over 23,500 new jobs.
The win, confirmed by the Financial Times’ fDi Markets report, marks the third consecutive year Dubai has led this ranking. This achievement is seen as a direct outcome of Dubai’s strong creative economy strategy and its focus on innovative, investor-friendly policies.
Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the result reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. “Dubai continues to grow as a global hub for creativity and innovation,” she said, highlighting the city’s support for talent, investment, and cultural infrastructure.
Key reforms like the Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2025 allow free zone businesses to expand across Dubai with ease. Programmes such as Zero Government Bureaucracy (ZGB) and the International Art Fairs Grant also support growth and attract global talent.
India topped the list for the number of FDI projects, while the US led in total capital inflow. Sub-sectors seeing the most activity included advertising, AI-driven design, film, media, and gaming.
According to Dubai FDI Monitor, greenfield wholly owned projects made up 76.5% of all FDI in 2024, signalling strong investor confidence.
Her Excellency Hala Badri noted, “Dubai is not only attracting investment, but reshaping the global cultural map with its progressive policies.”
