Dubai tops the global ranking in new FDI projects in cultural and creative industries for the fourth year in a row, according to the 2025 fDi Markets data, which tracks greenfield foreign direct investment.
Emirate secures 754 new projects, outpacing rivals
The emirate recorded 754 greenfield projects in the sector, a figure that dwarfs the 227 projects logged in London and the 197 in Singapore. Capital inflows reached $3.756 billion, creating more than 19,300 jobs.
Among the 233 cities surveyed, Dubai retained the lead, followed by London, Singapore, Riyadh and Bengaluru. The data underline the strength of its enabling infrastructure and an integrated cultural ecosystem that draws talent from across the globe.
Investment flows reflect shifting creative setting
Growth came from a mix of sub‑sectors, including advertising, specialized computer programming, data processing, film, gaming, AI‑driven creative technologies and design. Logistics services that support these activities also featured prominently.
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India led the top five source countries for greenfield capital inflows in 2025, contributing 19 percent, followed by the United States at 17.5 percent.
“Guided by the vision of its leadership, the emirate has built an environment that gives creativity room to grow, enables talent to turn ambition into enterprise, and connects promising ideas with investment and opportunity,” said H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chair of Dubai Culture.
She added that the sector now shows a clear shift towards industries connected to digital content, creative technology, artificial intelligence, and emerging creative services.
These remarks point to a broader strategy that blends full foreign ownership, streamlined business setup and long‑term residency pathways for talent. Advanced digital and logistics infrastructure further boosts appeal.
For workers on the ground, the surge translates into more stable, high‑skill positions in fields ranging from game development to museum curation. The influx of projects also means local suppliers can tap into international supply chains, expanding market reach.
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In practice, the expanding ecosystem gives freelancers and start‑ups a clearer route to scale. Access to specialized clusters and knowledge‑exchange programs lowers barriers that traditionally hampered growth.
According to the report, the sector’s capital inflows rose sharply, reinforcing the emirate’s role as a hub for both core cultural activities and the broader creative value chain.
External observers can consult the foreign direct investment entry for context on how greenfield projects differ from other investment types.
Dubai’s creative surge continues.
