Why the US election result is net positive for Dubai’s real estate market

Paul Sharland takes a balanced look at what a Trump wins means on the economic front for the emirate and wider UAE.

The recent US election has been a topic of massive global interest and discussion, and as the dust settles on the results, many are left wondering what the implications will be for businesses and markets in our region.

Let’s take a moment to explore the potential effects of the (somewhat surprising) result of a Trump win on Dubai’s thriving real estate sector.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that the outcome of the election was a decisive victory for Donald Trump. This certainty prevents the potential hysteria that could have arisen from a close or contested result.

Regardless of one's personal opinions about the incoming President, this stability can be seen as a good thing for global markets.

In terms of the UAE specifically, the election results are likely to have a positive impact on the business environment. The country has long been considered an attractive destination for investors and entrepreneurs, offering a tax-free environment, a high quality of life, and a safe place to raise a family. This is now especially true for American citizens who may be considering relocating due to the election outcome.

Meanwhile, Europe and the UK, once popular options, are now seen as less appealing due to various factors such as Brexit, economic instability, and of course the terrible ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.

Another important point is that Trump's pro-crypto stance compared to Kamala Harris's pro-regulation approach to cryptocurrencies gives Dubai – which is the crypto capital of the world – a big boost, because as Bitcoin continues to rise more people will have the financial means to invest in the emirate’s property market.

Dubai is one of the easiest and most straightforward places in the world to buy property with crypto, making it the perfect location for those looking to diversify their investments.

Looking ahead, the UAE real GDP is projected to grow at 4.1% in 2025, according to the World Bank’s latest MENA Economic Update, underscoring the country’s resilience and growth prospects despite potential global market volatility.

This outlook, paired with the UAE’s strategic diversification efforts and attractive business environment make it a compelling destination for those seeking a new home or investment opportunity as we move into 2025.