Key Takeaways:
- Dubai retains the top spot in the Savills Executive Nomad Index, with Abu Dhabi moving up to second place.
- The index ranks 25 global destinations for long-term remote work based on factors like climate, quality of life, and prime residential markets.
- Dubai’s lead is strengthened by its superior air connectivity and modern infrastructure.
- New entrants to the 2024 Index include Palermo, Cape Town, Grenada, Bali, and San José.
Dubai remains the top destination in the Savills Executive Nomad Index, recognized for its strong infrastructure, quality of life, and world-class air connectivity. Abu Dhabi has also risen in the rankings, securing the second spot.
Dubai’s dominance is attributed to its excellent air connectivity, with Dubai International Airport being the busiest for international traffic. Abu Dhabi follows closely, benefiting from similar strengths in infrastructure and lifestyle offerings.
Andrew Cummings of Savills highlights the cities’ appeal to executive nomads, noting their modern infrastructure and vibrant business environments.
Beachside cities like Málaga (3rd), Miami (4th), Lisbon (5th), Barcelona (6th), and Palma (7th) continue to rank highly, attracting executive nomads who value quality of life, including safety and access to healthcare.
Kelcie Sellers of Savills World Research notes that these nomads, often older and traveling with families, prioritize these lifestyle aspects.
Prime rents have increased by an average of 5% across the 25 locations in the index, driven by the preferences of executive nomads for spacious, well-located rentals.
New to the 2024 Index are Palermo (22nd), Cape Town (17th), Grenada (11th), Bali (12th), and San José, Costa Rica (13th), reflecting the expanding options for executive nomads.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s top rankings in the Savills Executive Nomad Index highlight their strong appeal for global remote workers.
New entrants like Cape Town and Palermo indicate a growing diversity in destinations catering to executive nomads seeking both professional opportunities and a high quality of life.
