Dubai and Abu Dhabi have established themselves as top destinations for elite hybrid remote workers specialized in areas such as finance and consultancy, according to recent research by real estate broker Savills Plc.
It’s easy to see why. Both cities offer unparalleled advantages for executive digital nomads, including world-class infrastructure, favorable tax regimes and access to a global network of like-minded professionals.
In addition, these international hubs boast a high standard of living with their luxury accommodations, top-tier amenities and outstanding air connectivity, which make them magnets for those seeking both world-class comfort and career growth.
All of this is without mentioning their strategic geographic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. This unique position provides elite remote workers with easy access to major global markets streamlining the scaling of their businesses and engagement in international trade.
“People want the best of both worlds—a seaside lifestyle with the city amenities,” said Kelcie Sellers, a global research associate at Savills. “Most of the top 10 fall into that category, and the desire for this type of location has increased in recent years.”
The firm reached this conclusion after studying the 25 best residential markets that traditionally lure this special demographic.
Other cities that made the exclusive list include Malaga, Spain, in third place—where it seems every digital nomad has a trip planned to! Palermo, Italy, secured the fourth spot, which might be surprising until learning that rents in this city can be up to 70 percent lower than in Florence. Closing out the top 5 list is Lisbon, which got the first place two years ago but lost this position due a massive surge in rental prices.
Where do most digital nomads live?
In general, digital nomads choose destinations that combine top-tier facilities, affordability and community.
Bali, Indonesia, and Chiang Mai, Thailand, have long been favorites luring remote workers with their very affordable cost of living and digital nomad-friendly amenities.
Meanwhile, Lisbon, Portugal and Barcelona, Spain, draw nomads with their Mediterranean weather, palatable food, outstanding connectivity and favorable tax regimes.
Mexico City and Playa del Carmen, Mexico, Bali, Indonesia and Tbilisi, Georgia, have also positioned themselves as dynamic hubs, offering a unique mix of history, culture and modern accommodations that cater to the most exigent digital nomads.
There are also emerging destinations like Medellin, Colombia, Budapest, Hungary, and Cape Town, South Africa, which are becoming massively popular among those looking to enjoy themselves while running their businesses in authentic natural paradises.