UAE is Second Globally for Foreign Direct Investment Projects in 2023
The UAE welcomed 1,323 greenfield investment projects last year, amounting to a 33% increase since 2022.
According to the latest UNCTAD World Investment Report 2024, the UAE has been ranked as the world's second largest recipient of new foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in 2023. The Emirates welcomed 1,323 greenfield investment projects last year, marking a notable 33% increase from 2022.
The surge in FDI projects contributed to a 35% year-on-year growth in total FDI inflows, amounting to $30.688 billion. Only the United States attracted more greenfield FDI announcements than the UAE in 2023.
Despite a slight decrease in FDI outflows compared to the previous year, which totaled $22.328 billion, the UAE saw its overall outbound FDI stock rise to $262.208 billion, underscoring the country's expanding role in global investment.
