The UAE is a magnet for potential investors due to its investor-friendly policies, tax incentives, and safe environment. It has also secured the second position in the 2025 Global Safety Index. If you want to invest in property in the UAE, you must know about the impact of safety rankings on real estate investment.
Read ahead to discover more about the safety index and the high ROI investment areas in the UAE.
- Rankings of the UAE in the Global Safety Index
- Why Is the UAE Considered Safe?
- How Safety Rankings Impact Real Estate Investment Decisions
- Best Areas to Invest in the UAE
- FAQs
Rankings of the UAE in the Global Safety Index
Every year, different authorities assess countries on some safety parameters and publish a Global Safety Index of the world’s safest countries. The assessment criteria include:
- Public perception of safety
- Crime rates
- Law enforcement effectiveness
- Cybersecurity infrastructure
- Disaster preparedness
In 2025, the UAE secured the second position in the Global Finance and Numbeo Safety Indexes. Not only that, four of the UAE’s cities are ranked highest in the world’s safest cities index:
- Abu Dhabi secured the first rank with an 88.6 score.
- Ajman follows the capital with an 85.3 score.
- Dubai ranks third with an 83.9 score answering the most asked question, ‘Is Dubai safe?’
- Ras Al Khaimah comes fifth with an 83.8 score.
Why Is the UAE Considered Safe?
The UAE has surpassed several well-developed countries such as the US, UK and Singapore. This is mainly because of modern initiatives, strict laws and cultural harmony in the country. Let’s look at the factors that contribute to its high safety rankings:
1. Multicultural Haven
First, the UAE population comprises 200 nationalities and expats represent 89% of the population. The government promotes inclusivity and has established an equal rights policy for all. In addition, multicultural communities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates allow neighbours to celebrate cultural diversity.
The country follows expat-friendly policies in every sector, whether healthcare, education or employment, ensuring you a friendly living atmosphere.
2. Smart and Modern Security Systems
Another reason behind the safe environment is that the UAE has taken several smart security initiatives. This translates to quick services, higher efficiency and reduced crime rates. An example is the Dubai Police mobile application, which streamlines service delivery processes. Here are a few notable initiatives by the UAE government:
- Fingerprint checking systems are in the main areas like Dubai International Airport.
- Security cameras with 24/7 monitoring are installed in most residential and commercial areas.
- Development of secure gated residential communities.
- Using robots to monitor unusual behaviour at the main destinations within the country.
- Implementation of AI-empowered traffic management systems that help reduce street crimes and accidents.
3. Low Crime Rates
The UAE has strict law enforcement that clearly outlines the consequences of breaking the law. The well-developed law system reduces crime rates and makes the country safe to live alone or raise a family. According to the statistics issued by Dubai Police in 2024, the major crime rate is reduced to 31.4 per hundred thousand people.
How Safety Rankings Impact Real Estate Investment Decisions
Expats look forward to safe and stable countries for investment purposes, raising a family and starting a new career. The safety rankings signal the UAE to be a politically stable, investor-friendly and secure country. Let’s look at the impact of safety rankings on real estate investment decisions:
1. Boosts Investor Confidence
The UAE’s high safety rankings continue to draw investors, boosting confidence in the market. A secure and stable environment not only provides peace of mind but also encourages long-term investments. Furthermore, the country’s strict law enforcement offers added assurance that your investment is well protected.
2. Increases Real Estate Demand
Investors seeking high real estate demand can undoubtedly invest in property in the UAE. The safe environment, lavish infrastructure and upscale facilities attract expats to settle there, increasing the demand for real estate.
3. Yields Higher Returns and Contributes to Long-Term Growth
Real estate investment is a prime investment opportunity in the UAE, thanks to its position as the world’s second safest country. The safety rankings increase property demand, which translates to higher returns and long-term capital appreciation, encouraging potential investors to buy properties in the UAE.
Best Areas to Invest in the UAE
If you want to invest in the UAE real estate sector, there are plenty of options suitable for different budgets and needs. From villas to apartments, there are various options to invest in, catering to every requirement. Let’s explore the best areas to invest in the UAE:
1. Dubai
Investing in Dubai real estate starts with an ideal location, so here are some top picks:
Apartments
Check below the top apartment locations in Dubai offering high returns, top-tier amenities and stable future growth:
| Area | Average ROI |
| Dubai Sports City | 8.75% |
| Dubai Silicon Oasis | 8.64% |
| International City | 8.54% |
Villas
The following villa communities are popular for high rental yields, luxurious lifestyles and long-term investment:
| Area | Average ROI |
| Dubai Hills Estate | 5.29% |
| Arabian Ranches | 4.62% |
2. Abu Dhabi
Do you want to buy a high-ROI property in Abu Dhabi? Here are your options:
Apartments
Buy an apartment in the following in-demand areas in Abu Dhabi:
| Area | Average ROI for a 3-bed Apartment |
| Corniche Road | 8.1% |
| Al Reem Island | 6.5% |
| Al Raha Beach | 5.7% |
Villas
For purchasing a villa, the following communities stand out for their unique offerings like waterfront appeal, traditional vibe, and connectivity:
| Area | Average ROI for a 3-Bed Villa |
| Yas Island | 6.3% |
| Khalifa City | 4.1% |
| Mohammed Bin Zayed City | 4% |
FAQs
Yes, investing in UAE real estate offers high returns, stable growth, demand and capital appreciation. The main reasons behind the high demand from potential investors include political stability, safety and a lavish lifestyle.
Yes, expats can buy properties in the designated freehold areas in Dubai, such as Business Bay and Downtown Dubai.
No, you won’t get permanent residency by investing in the UAE. However, you can apply for long-term residency visas, subject to fulfilling eligibility requirements.
To sum up, the UAE’s safe and stable environment makes it one of the prime destinations for property investments. Invest in UAE property and enjoy high returns, impressive appreciation and long-term growth.
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