badmin, Author at The Urban Nest

UAE Ranked World’s Top Millionaire Destination in 2022

Posted on June 14, 2022October 5, 2022 by badmin

Approximately 4,000 more millionaires are expected to move to the UAE this year than those who will leave — one of the country’s largest millionaire net inflows on record

The UAE is expected to attract the largest net inflow of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) globally in 2022, according to forecast HNWI figures published in the latest Henley Global Citizens Report.

Approximately 4,000 more millionaires are expected to move to the UAE this year than those who will leave — one of the country’s largest millionaire net inflows on record, according to the report, which tracks private wealth and investment migration trends worldwide.

The report released by investment advisory firm Henley & Partners exclusively features the latest projected 2022 net inflows and outflows of US dollar millionaires – namely, the difference between the number of HNWIs who relocate to and the number who emigrate from a country – by New World Wealth.

The managing partner at Henley & Partners and the head of the firm’s Dubai office, Philippe Amarante, said that more and more clients are showing strong interest in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

Amarante added: “The UAE has spearheaded this surge with its competitive, agile approach to adapting regulations and remains a powerful magnet for capital and talent. Investors from all over the world continue to relocate to the country either in a private capacity, with their businesses, or both.

“This seemed to have been a temporary effect due to the UAE leadership’s efficient pandemic management, but roots in the UAE are now becoming a must-have asset in every high-net-worth investor’s portfolio.”

Most of the millionaires come from Russia, India, Africa, and the Middle East. Pre-pandemic, the UAE traditionally attracted net inflows of only around 1,000 millionaires per year.

Millionaire migration boom forecast for UAE

In terms of projected HNWI growth over the next decade, the Henley Private Wealth Migration Dashboard predicts that the number of dollar millionaires and billionaires will increase by 40 percent in the UAE.

The country already has 92,600 US-dollar millionaires; 4,000 multi-millionaires worth more than $10 million; 251 centi-millionaires (over $100 million), and 14 US-dollar billionaires.

The head of Research at New World Wealth, Andrew Amoils, said: “The country is strong in numerous key sectors including financial services, oil and gas, real estate, travel and tourism, technology, and healthcare, with a first-class healthcare system.

“UAE residents stand to benefit from among the world’s most competitive tax rates, along with the likes of Monaco and Bermuda. In terms of lifestyle, the UAE is a renowned luxury hub, with top-end apartments and villas and world-class shopping malls and restaurants.”

Amoils added: “For those with children, there are excellent international schools, and many beaches with yachting, water sports, and other leisure activities.”

GCC markets increasingly attractive to international investors

Henley & Partners has also seen a significant increase in investor interest in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Amarante added: “Much like the UAE, Bahrain applies a nimble, and therefore highly attractive, approach to private clients wishing to invest in the country’s real estate or industrial sectors.

“The recent start of the construction of the Bahrain–US trade zone as a regional center for manufacturing, logistics, and distribution for American companies in the kingdom, in the GCC markets, and beyond, has increased Bahrain’s attractiveness.”

He adds that economic and social developments in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have also made its premium residency initiative look increasingly appealing to the global community of high-net-worth- individuals.

“Research suggests that the education sector in Saudi Arabia benefited from the use of social media during the pandemic, with the result that academics, higher education institutions, and educational

technology application providers are increasingly interested in the opportunities the kingdom offers,” Amarante added.

Commenting in the Henley Global Citizens Report, the chairman of Globaleye, Tim Searle, pointed out that what clients implemented years ago may well no longer be relevant today.

“Clients should also take some responsibility and challenge their advisory and substantiate with other parties that all parameters are being covered. Just as you should never accept one doctor’s opinion regarding your health, the same applies to your wealth,” Searle concluded

Living In Dubai – What Expats Must Know (2022 Update)

Posted on June 1, 2022August 30, 2022 by badmin

Dubai stands out as the true city of expats, and the changes introduced in 2020 have opened up even more opportunities. Let’s take a look at what it’s really like living in Dubai.

A new life in Dubai could well be one of the most exciting experiences you’ll ever enjoy. However, living in Dubai like any new country can be daunting, especially if you lack practical knowledge of how things are done locally.

In 2020 the UAE and Dubai, in particular, introduced exciting changes aimed at expat residents. We’re going to take a look at the pros and cons of living in Dubai, with practical tips on residency, taxes, education, health and plenty more, including the recent changes.

With our Dubai tips and you will know what to expect, so you can plan beforehand and make the very most of everything that the Dubai lifestyle has to offer.

Living in Dubai – the pros and cons that might surprise you

Like any other place in the world, Dubai has a lot going for it as well as some major drawbacks. When moving to a new place it is essential you know what both bad and good things you can expect from your new home.

The pros of living in Dubai

Dubai is an exciting and happening destination that cannot be ignored! It is, therefore, the place to be if you want to enjoy your social life and your working life in the fast
The climate in the emirate for 8 months of the year is perfect. Long hot days dominated by cloudless blue skies and enhanced with beautiful warm
The social side of life is fantastic and Many expats join a hotel or private beach club when they arrive and spend much of their downtime enjoying the facilities.
There are more sports and sports clubs closely concentrated together within the emirate than anywhere else in the world!
Dining out is Dubai’s bars, clubs and restaurants play host to as wide a range of tastes as is probably possible!
The educational standards in Dubai are excellent and new schools and colleges are being constructed almost
Every major international corporation has a base in Dubai – or so it seems! This means that there are opportunities aplenty.
No income is tax!
One can repatriate funds easily – therefore you can earn a fantastic salary in Dubai and send some of it home as well.
The emirate is increasingly accessible with its major international airport welcoming flights from across the
Shopping in Dubai is fantastic!
The standard of living is very
Crime is very
Dubai is a very tolerant emirate – tolerant of others’ beliefs and ways of life. It is also one of the most moderate in terms of applying the rules of Islam to everyone’s everyday Expats can

buy alcohol in Dubai and also they are allowed to eat and drink during the daylight hours of Ramadan.

Taxis are very cheap and the government is investing hugely into a public transportation
Cars and petrol are very cheap
It’s usual practice for families to have domestic

The cons of living in Dubai

Dubai is a bit of a bureaucratic headache especially for newly arrived expatriates who have to have licenses and permits for everything. You need a permit to work and a permit to reside in Dubai of Get advice and assistance supplied and agreed on upfront from your employer to ease this initial period of adjustment that can actually put some people off staying in the emirate!
The summer months from June to September are almost unbearably hot and many expats take holiday time off during this period to return home. It can make it worse if you have children as for most of the day they will really need to stay indoors in air-conditioned
The traffic situation in Dubai can be untenable and impact on the lives of those who have to commute or take children to school etc. The government’s programme of investment into public transport systems is easing the problem, but if you want to take a drive in Dubai, it can become a lengthy
Housing and schooling are incredibly expensive in
The cost of living in Dubai is on par with living in central London – e., it is quite expensive.
There is a certain amount of governmental censorship on films, access to websites and even the likes of Some expats find this restrictive and frustrating.
Working hours can be very long and international companies operating in Dubai, in particular, do tend to expect an awful lot from their expatriate employees. Possibly because the salaries are higher and improved by lack of tax they feel they have some sort of ownership of their employees?
Dubai is currently a building There are pockets of calm and oases of tranquillity across the emirate, but there is also frenetic and relentless development occurring which can make life a little tiring and stressful at times.
Dubai is not exactly an environmentally friendly place nor is it the sort of place to live if you want to take long walks in quiet

Living in Dubai is really what you make of it. It’s a matter of personal choice and preferences and also finding out whether the opportunities Dubai offers (such as a good income not burdened with taxes) outweigh possible negatives.

Things to know before you move to Dubai

Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is also the name of the main city within the emirate of Dubai. Dubai boasts incredible luxury lifestyle opportunities

Dubai’s wealth has been built on its oil industry, but it has successfully diversified its economy so that today it has multiple strands supporting its fiscal strength – including tourism, real estate, financial services, health and education.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the ruler of Dubai, and together with Abu Dhabi, the emirate has veto power over certain matters of national importance in the country’s legislature.

As a result of this, foreign buyers are allowed to own the freehold title to certain property in Dubai for example – this is not the case in all other emirates within the UAE.

Dubai has become an exceptionally popular choice for relocation with expatriates for a number of key reasons.

Firstly, despite the emirate’s economic contraction which hit the world in 2008, Dubai now is still a booming economy where there was an abundance of employment prospects, and opportunity for strong speculation in the local property market abounded.

The other key reason why living in Dubai is so appealing to expats is because the lifestyle locally is exceptionally good, particularly for Western expats who benefit from a largely excellent climate, wonderful leisure facilities, a relatively laid back pace of life and good education and healthcare standards.

If you are seriously considering moving to Dubai, this is what you need to know before you move:

Jobs and salaries in Dubai

For those who want to advance their careers, earn a tax-free salary, and live in one of the most exciting and vibrant locations in the world – Dubai is a top place to move to.

Considering the pros and cons of living in Dubai? The beaches there are simply amazing Many people made strong fortunes in Dubai, and even to this day, it’s a centre of wealth and prosperity.

Expats who relocate long-term to Dubai can legitimately earn their salary free from income tax. No income tax in Dubai is a big deal for many professionals, plus there are some additional tax advantages and some pitfalls as well.

It’s essential to understand whether Dubai is really as tax-free as it’s famed for and you can get to the bottom of it on a separate Tax in Dubai guide.

One may say that the emirate’s heady days of constant economic expansion are over, for now at least, but there are still jobs in Dubai in many employment sectors.

Dubai is aiming to become one of the strongest global tech and innovation hubs in a bid to reduce oil dependency and diversify the economy even further.

Dubai has an excellent infrastructure and connectivity and the government is doing quite a lot to promote Dubai as a perfect destination for global talent and start-ups.

Knowing which professions are in greatest demand in the OAE now and probably in the foreseeable future can help you considerably in finding a good job in Dubai.

Tips & facts – working in Dubai

If an employer is relocating, you to be working in Dubai you want to negotiate your employment

package. The cost of living in Dubai is so high you need relocation costs, accommodation costs and your children’s education costs taken into consideration at the very least.

If you’re looking for work in the emirate you can enter on a visit visa, depending on the nation you herald from, and target employers directly.

You can also look online to see which recruitment companies can assist you to find work in the emirate.

You will need a labour card and your employer will have to sponsor your visa to live and work in the emirate.

If you lose your job you will have 30 days to find another job and another sponsor, or else you will have to leave Dubai.

You cannot just change jobs on a whim in Dubai – depending on the level of formal education you have, this restricts the number of times you can change jobs believe it or not.

Dubai “remote work” visa

Dubai has also launched a ‘remote work’ visa programme.

The programme allows you to travel to Dubai and stay there for up to a year working as a self-employed or for your employer abroad.

You can rent a house in Dubai, have access to Dubai schools if you have children, utilities, and basically live like a local. You are officially allowed to work. However, you are not allowed to get a job in Dubai.

The application will cost you $287, plus you need to have health insurance in Dubai.

Can I retire in Dubai?

Yes, starting from September 2020 Dubai expat residents can apply for the “retire in Dubai” scheme.

Under this scheme, eligible residents aged 55 and over can apply for a retirement visa that would be renewable every five years.

To be eligible, you must meet one of the three requirements:

You must earn a monthly income of 20,000 dirhams ($5,500);
Or you must have savings of 1 million dirhams;
Or own a property in Dubai worth 2 million

To start with, the program will focus on residents working in Dubai who have reached retirement age. Applicants must have valid UAE health insurance.

Dubai lifestyle

When talking about living in Dubai, the majority of the time we’re talking about the City of Dubai rather than the emirate as a whole. This is where the majority of Britons base themselves in the emirate, and where they find work. The City of Dubai is also the lifestyle hub for the entire region.

Dubai offers amazing dining out experience.

Lifestyle in Dubai is the one thing you won’t hear expats complaining about. Although due to the heat it is mostly limited to indoor air-conditioned activities, nevertheless there are plenty entertainments of all sorts including amazing shopping.

From a range of theme parks to private beach clubs, from incredibly opulent shopping malls to cinema complexes and an abundance of restaurants, from indoor snowboarding to the most remarkable music festivals – Dubai really does have it all.

Shopping in Dubai

There are multiple malls in Dubai – and in fact, the largest mall in the world exists in Dubai. What’s more, you can buy everything from Ikea furniture to traditional textiles in the emirate.

Dubai’s shopping malls attract shoppers from around the globe

A lot of what you buy is tax-free – however, importation costs can ratchet up what you’re paying for items. Moreover, VAT was introduced in 2018 at a rate of 5% excluding basic food items, healthcare and education. Take care when out shopping if you’re on a budget.

Shop in local markets and supermarkets for cheaper prices. Avoid malls on a Friday night as they are packed.

Many expats leaving Dubai are looking to offload everything from furniture to cars – look on forums and supermarket/employment place notice boards for bargains.

The cost of living in Dubai

When it comes to the cost of living in Dubai there is again good and bad news.

The cost of accommodation can be as much as GBP 15,000 a year for a decent rental apartment in a good location and this has to be paid upfront.

What’s more, if you want to buy a property in Dubai you may have to wait many years for an off-plan apartment or villa to be completed or pay top dollar for a resale property.

However, if you already own property in Dubai and want to rent it out, the good news is that you can easily achieve yields of between 8 and 11%.

Other than accommodation the other high cost outlays you need to be aware of include school fees which are now extortionate at the best schools as expats fight for places.

Whilst there is a law restricting the annual rate of school fee inflation to between 16 and 20 percent, schools find all sorts of ways to add on extras and this has seen annual inflation of up to 80 percent in school fees.

Medical insurance and the cost of healthcare in Dubai is high – but then the quality you get is exceptional.

Basic day to day grocery costs are average, alcohol is quite expensive too.

Fuel costs are affordable as are vehicle costs when compared to the UK for example.

Even with the introduction of VAT in Dubai (at a rate of 5% it is one of the lowest in the world) daily shopping costs are very reasonable.

Healthcare in Dubai

Since the introduction of mandatory health insurance in Dubai every resident living in Dubai needs to be insured one way or another.

Valid health insurance is necessary to obtain a residency visa. The new law is a part of Dubai’s programme to become one of the most advanced countries in terms of healthcare, its quality and affordability for all residents.

As you are moving to a totally different climate with totally different local bugs and health threats, there are some essential steps to be undertaken before your relocation and during your stay in Dubai.

Our Healthcare in Dubai guide will tell you what you need to do before and after moving to keep your family and yourself healthy in Dubai, and what you can expect from the Dubai healthcare system.

Dubai – culture shock

Learn as much about Dubai as you can before you move there – and if possible, visit before you commit to relocation.

Also, get on forums and chats with other expats who already live in the emirate to find out what it’s really like.

Here are some facts that you need to know before moving to Dubai:

Adultery is a crime punishable by prison and subsequent deportation – as is getting into debt and even bouncing a
Never drink and drive, never take non-prescribed
Respect the dress code, dress
Respect the local religion and traditions, understand that during Ramadan you should not eat or drink during the hours of daylight in view of local people – it is deeply

Knowing and following laws and rules in Dubai is key to your wellbeing in the country.

Major changes introduced in the UAE legislation

In 2020 the UAE introduced several changes to the rules and laws that govern the Emirates with the aim of boosting the country’s economic and social standing. Here are the changes that have the most profound effect on expats living in Dubai:

The so-called ‘honour killings’ and harassment of women aren’t treated leniently any
Drinking alcohol without a licence is
Living together outside marriage is no longer
Expats in the UAE can follow their home nation’s law on divorce and
Foreign investors can fully own local companies without the need for an Emirati sponsor with the exception of energy and hydrocarbons, telecommunications and transport

Driving in Dubai

Dubai is a rapidly expanding metropolis, attracting holidaymakers and expats from all over the globe. It is modern, lively and busy.

When it comes to driving in Dubai, obeying the traffic regulations should become your first priority. Traffic can be a real problem when living in Dubai, like in many other cities in the world.

You cannot buy your own car in Dubai until you have a local driving license, but you can rent a car on your international license.

If you want to ride a motorbike in Dubai you need to have a license from your own nation, if you want to take tours off-road in the UAE you need to pass a desert driving course.

Public transport in Dubai

Getting around a modern metropolis for those who don’t like driving or don’t feel comfortable with it in a foreign country is initially a challenge.

It takes some time getting used to routes, modes of transport and local know-how of using public transport. However, after you familiarise yourself with it, getting around the city will become only easier.

Dubai is planning to become the smartest city in the world in terms of public transport.

The city can already boast driverless Metro trains, Tesla taxi cars, and even self-driving buses are becoming a reality. So travelling by public transport in Dubai can be a perfect option for those who want to avoid the hassle of driving.

Finding a home in Dubai

Property prices in Dubai have surged and crashed, however, rental rates remain exceptionally high.

What’s more, you may be expected to pay for one year’s rent in advance. This can be difficult for many moving to the emirate, and some employers help out.

Find out if they will also help you find somewhere to live as this can be tricky and time-consuming. Townhouses and Villas in Dubai

If at all possible, reside in Dubai in temporary accommodation for as long as you can so you have plenty

of time to get to know the different residential areas. This way you can find the right one for you and your needs and tastes.

Different areas of the emirate cost very different amounts and are more or less salubrious. Learn where would suit you before you commit to renting a property in Dubai on a permanent basis.

Living in Dubai – final thoughts

Dubai is truly an intoxicating country that offers the potential for an unprecedented lifestyle. A true world- class vision of a futuristic forward-looking city, that still holds onto a conservative tradition that you will have to accept if you choose Dubai.

If you’re the type of person who thrives on buzz and excitement, Dubai could well be the perfect place to call home.

No doubt, Dubai as a destination is a personal choice. Some people love it, some people hate it. However, what’s certain is that if you can love it, you can save an incredible amount of tax and potentially build much more wealth than you ever could back home!

Dubai within the Top 3 Destination for Branded Residences

Posted on May 19, 2022October 5, 2022 by badmin

Following a record breaking post-lockdown year in 2021, the real estate market in Dubai continues to perform fantastically well in 2022, especially in the prime and super-prime markets, within which Dubai’s branded residential development sector continues to flourish, as the emirate’s love affair with branded residential real estate continues.

Dean Foley – Head of Residential Project Sales & Marketing at Knight Frank Middle East commented “Residential development across the emirate has flourished since 2010 with the Armani Residences Burj Khalifa first in the market – since then, we have seen an explosion of this asset class with strong demand from HNW and UHNW buyers from across the globe. Such has been the rate of expansion that Dubai is now a global leader rivalling Miami and New York for completed and pipeline projects. Over the last 12 months, we’ve seen launches from Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, W and Six Senses, cementing Dubai’s popularity and boosting confidence with hotel operators, developers, owners and buyers.

In Knight Frank’s recently published Branded Residential Overview Dubai 2022, they have investigated 6 key trends that are helping to shape the emirates love affair with branded residential property.

1. Dubai one of the top three branded residential markets globally

Dubai has evolved to become a key global hub for branded residences in the last 10 years, however the US, led by Miami, continues to have the highest concentration globally. In Dubai we now have two clear

concentrations of branded residential property: Central Dubai (stretching outward from Downtown Dubai, along Dubai Canal and out to Jumeirah 1) and New Dubai, encompassing The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Lake Towers.

2. Developers widening the net to attract new buyers and investors

There has been a strong shift towards creating more investment grade product, alongside traditional branded residences that appeal to global UHNWI clientele, with Developers recognising the investment potential in branded residential products.

3. Lifestyle brands making their mark

Historically, brands such as Four Seasons and Mandarin Oriental, along with other established brands under Marriott and Accor have dominated the branded residential market landscape, but more recently, the likes of Porche, Bvlgari, Cavalli and Elie Saab, all of which have swathes of fiercely loyal followers have joined the race to provide ultra-luxury branded residential homes.

4. “New” branded residential neighbourhoods

Downtown Dubai and The Palm Jumeirah have very limited development opportunities, which is driving developers to look to the peripheries of these locations. As the Dubai market continues to evolve and mature, operators are moving into areas such as Business Bay, where Missoni, Mama Shelter, Pagani and the Dorchester Collection are all establishing a presence. Indeed, the arrival of these prestigious brands has contributed to the overall increase in residential demand in Business Bay, which recently joined the exclusive $10 million home club in Dubai, as we reported previously.

5. Fully integrated service offering to remain a top client attraction

Privacy and security have always been key factors for buyers, but a fully integrated service offering, complete with a personalised concierge service in a landmark setting, offered by a reputed brand is what buyers at the top end of the market continue to actively seek out and are happy to pay a premium for.

6. Buyers hungry for more

Globally, buyers are taking a closer look at their living arrangements in the wake of the pandemic and when it comes to the branded residential market, buyers and investors are hungry for even more luxurious amenities and lifestyle offerings that are driving the emergence of some of the world’s most exciting branded residential developments in cities such as Dubai –

Dean continued “The Covid-19 pandemic brought about an increased sensitivity to space, investment and safety. For the global elite, branded residences provides large and opulently serviced homes under the strength and expert care of a leading luxury brand, in addition, the UAE Government acted with laser guided efficiency to ensure disruption was kept to a minimum, its population vaccinated and its economy open for business – these three pillars are what’s largely driven the branded real estate landscape over the last 12 months.”

10 Top Locations to Invest in International Property in 2022

Posted on February 28, 2022August 30, 2022 by badmin

As the global property market begins to normalize, estate agents’ network Luxury Portfolio International identifies some of the best places to invest in this year.

After spending so much time cooped up at home, it’s hardly surprising that people are heeding the call of new horizons, whether it is the prospect of relaxing on a beach, gazing across majestic mountain vistas or enjoying the thrills of London, New York and LA.

Luxury property buyers are taking a serious look at the top international locations to invest in 2022.

Based on a study of more than 4,500 wealthy property owners and investors, The State of Luxury Real Estate, by global estate agents’ network Luxury Portfolio International (LPI), found that ‘buyer demands have not changed on the basics: location, quality, and well-run, family friendly places to live’.

Remote working and Covid-related lifestyle changes continue to influence the buying process, but people ‘are not, in general, making hasty decisions like they may have a year ago’.

Many are motivated by the desire to transition financial gains to real property assets as investments, others by their wish for a better place to live, a better location or a house that better meets their changing needs.

There is, however, a surprising ‘fear of missing out’ at the moment, fuelled by concerns over the potential rise in interest rates or house prices. Partly because of this, many buyers have an imminent time-frame — they want to invest in international property within this year, leading researchers to predict growth across all regions and particularly in Europe and Asia.

Interestingly, despite the rise in remote working and technology making distance less material, a little more than half of the buyers are looking to invest in city locations and more than three quarters are looking to be within commuting range of one — particularly those hailing from the Asia- Pacific region. With this in mind, here’s LPI’s pick of where to invest in international property in 2022.

Where to invest in international property across the world in 2022

1. Berlin, Germany

Over the past four decades, Berlin has transformed: the grim grey atmosphere of the Communist era is a faded memory and the city has become a cosmopolitan hub with a vibrant culture and an equally buzzy nightlife, which draws hip, young designers and savvy tech entrepreneurs alike. Europe should see some of the highest property prices increases this year and Berlin is expected to lead the pack. The German city has been relatively under-priced when compared to its economic performance until now and the gap with other European powerhouses should begin to narrow in 2022.

2. Seoul, South Korea

Ten years ago, the South Korean capital’s affluent, trendy Gangnam district, with its swanky boutiques and fabulous restaurants, became a household name worldwide thanks to K-pop singer Psy, who immortalised it in a song and video. Now its fame is compounded by the investment appeal of its

properties, whose market had a very positive year in 2021. With luxury homes few and far between, the trend is expected to continue in 2022.

3. London, UK

Whether it’s the theatres, the art galleries, the world-class food, some of the world’s most exciting new buildings or the traditional appeal of the change of the guard at Buckingham Palace, London has it all. Which is probably why the much touted demise of the British capital, announced on the back of the rise in remote working, has proven unfounded and the city looks set to bounce back this year, especially now that international buyers are making their return.

4. Singapore

With a number of millionaires that defies its diminutive size, Singapore feels like one of the buzziest, busiest cities on earth—the perfect place to live for those who want to be at the pulsating heart of the global economy. The property market is generally robust in a country where people abound and space is scarce, and Singapore saw good growth last year, with more expected in 2022.

5. Milan, Italy

Milan is imbued with style — after all, it’s Italy’s capital of fashion — and this extends to its magnificent buildings, which are a mix of the very ancient (the 1,600-year-old Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio) and the cutting-edge contemporary (Boeri Studio’s Vertical Forest towers, one of Europe’s largest and most spectacular regeneration projects). But the city is also Italy’s financial capital and its property market has awoken from the Covid slumber, with strong growth expected for 2022.

6. Madrid, Spain

Spain’s capital is often overshadowed by Barcelona, but undeservedly so. The architecture is majestic, the food is fabulous and El Prado and Reina Sofia museums are two of the world’s best (think Goya for the former and Picasso for the latter). The home of Spain’s Royal Palace saw some steady price rises last year, with more expected in 2022.

7. New York City, New York

Never bet against the appeal of the Big Apple, whether it’s because of the mellow brownstones, the soaring skyscrapers, the dizzying concentration of some of the world’s best restaurants, galleries, museums and bars or the stately Hudson. Like London, New York was expected to be on the way down as people left it during the early days of Covid for pastures greener and more spacious. But the tide has turned, buyers have returned and property prices have followed suit, with lively growth forecast for 2022.

8. Los Angeles, California

It has Hollywood, the golden beaches, great weather, sweeping views and even vampire tours. Now, further adding to LA’s appeal are rock-solid property prices, which saw a year of unbridled growth in 2021, fuelled in part by the reduction in Covid restrictions. Expectations for 2022 remain rosy.

9. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

More is more in Dubai, a city known for its unabashed opulence. After all, where else would you find a state-of-the-art sky slope despite the blazing heat or a lush garden in the middle of the desert? And now the local property market is even hotter than the weather.

Bolstered by strong capital growth, high yields and government-led initiatives that incentivises investment in the property sector, Dubai continued to be a prime target for investors.

All segments of Dubai’s real estate market recorded growth in the first half of 2022 with sales transactions and values holding up well,

Despite headwinds in the form of rising interest rates and a strengthening dollar, Dubai’s real estate market remained busy and robust in the first half of 2022.

Indians topped the list leading buyers by nationality with those from the UK, Italy, Russia and France rounding the top five, according to the report.

10. Sydney, Australia

The harbour, the Opera House, the sunset cruises — what’s not to like about Sydney? Property buyers worldwide have woken up to the appeal of the Australian city, which performed solidly in 2021. Prices look set to continue rising this year.

Top 20 Best Golf Courses in the Middle East and North Africa

Posted on February 9, 2022August 30, 2022 by badmin

20. Doha

Doha, Qatar
Design 30 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 7 Total 75

Qatar with two entries in the top 20 might surprise a few but only if they haven’t been there, because it has contrasting but excellent courses. Doha has a terrific routing, nice movement in fairways and several interesting holes. If its presentation continues to be refined, it will rise higher.

19. Education City

Doha, Qatar
Design 30 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 6 Consistency 8 Presentation 9 Total 75

This Jose Maria Olazabal design is the second course to be built in Qatar and was a hit with European Tour players. One of the best-conditioned tracks in the Middle East – and that is saying something. Not especially forgiving off the tee but a fine all-round test. Wouldn’t be out of line 10 places higher.

18. Saadiyat Beach

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Design 28 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 75

A ‘resort course’ you’d always relish playing but Saadiyat has lost a bit of its wow factor with the residences that have risen up on its edges and restricted sea views. It still looks pretty with sand splashed around and the wildlife – from birds to gazelles – is testament to its tranquil seaside location.

17. Dubai Creek

Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Design 29 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 8 Total 76

The marks tell the story of this Dubai golf icon; an awesome Setting and memorable holes for part of the round, but also some more modest phases. The best stretches (4-7 and 15-18) are high calibre and it’s a challenge and strategic in places. Gusts off the glistening creek adds to the test.

16. Dubai Hills

Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Design 30 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 76

Laid out by European Golf Design’s Gary Johnston, this newcomer has already made a significant mark. Forgiving off the tee but asking good players to find the best angles of approach, there is plenty of fun around the greens. The 5th is a real standout hole, with Burj Khalifa as the target line off the tee.

15. The Allegria

Cairo, Egypt
Design 31 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 76

A Greg Norman course set within one of Cairo’s most exclusive residential communities, so it is lined by elegant houses throughout. So, no enchanting views but plenty of interest as its undulating fairways slither between and over lakes, streams, rocks and vegetation.

14. Jumeirah (Earth)

Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Design 30 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 6 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 76

The venue for the DP World Tour’s finale is every inch the modern ‘championship’ test. Its deep bunkers look nothing like their links counterparts, but do the same thing strategically – they are unforgiving. The greens are big and you need to hit the right part of them. Strong stretch from 15-17.

13. Assoufid

Marrakesh, Morocco
Design 30 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 77

Marrakesh’s clear No.1 is a 2014 design by Niall Cameron that cleverly winds through undulating terrain in the lee of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. It’s 20 minutes from the old town (Medina) of the vibrant city, yet playing it is a tranquil experience. A desert-style course with lots of nice touches.

12. Abu Dhabi (National)

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Design 31 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 9 Total 77

This long-time host of the Abu Dhabi Tour event is one of the region’s best technical courses and was popular with the pros. There are interesting holes especially on the front nine and it is in terrific nick. Inland rather than seaside setting but a memorable 18th in front of the iconic falcon clubhouse.

11. Newgiza

Cairo, Egypt
Design 31 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 78

The most recent addition to Egypt’s portfolio is, in our opinion, already its best. This course on the outskirts of Cairo – with the Pyramids visible from certain points – was a long time in the making, having been started by Thomson, Perrett and Lobb and finished by Tim Lobb after the death of Open icon Peter Thomson.

The Surrey-based Australian has made a wonderful job of routing the course on an undulating, rocky site that led to a variety of holes and interesting green complexes. Built to a high specification, Newgiza is part of an upscale development and would very comfortably fit in this list’s top 10.

Highlights include the drop par-3 4th in the direction of the Pyramids, which is part of a fine opening salvo. Playable off the tee, but often enjoyably devilish on and around the greens.

10. Mazagan Beach

El Jadida, Morocco
Design 29 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 78

Located near El Jadida on Morocco’s Atlantic coast and opened in 2010, this Gary Player design has a ‘look’ of a links course and is a proper test at well over 7,000 yards and with coastal breezes to contend with. Towards the end of the front nine the pulse raises as the holes play alongside the coast.

9. Emirates (Majlis)

Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Design 29 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 9 Total 78

The panel felt the Dubai Desert Classic host lacked a touch of nuance to be higher. It’s a great test and a memorable experience with its famous backdrop, as well as interest in the slick, revamped greens. Shows its best face at the 4th, a subtle par 3, the 12th – with a great, bunkerless green – and the 17th.

8. Al Zorah

Ajman, United Arab Emirates
Design 31 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 9 Total 79

Set among mangroves, so has a rare tidal element. While the tide is in, you often hit over water from floating tees. It usually isn’t though, so it is less intimidating and Insta-worthy. Some really good stretches, notably the 6th-9th and 13th-16th. Gary Player track in small emirate of Ajman is in terrific nick.

7. Michlifen

Ifrane, Morocco
Design 31 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 9 Total 79

A Jack Nicklaus design overlooking the Atlas Mountains from a position within the stunning Ifrane National Park. Significant elevation change is a notable feature of a challenging, entertaining course. Rock outcrops, ravines, lakes and contoured greens characterise this modern classic.

6. Els Club

Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Design 32 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 10 Total 80

Playing firm and fast sets Els Club apart from target courses in Dubai. Short grass around the greens adds to the difficulty and fun. Loses a mark for setting as a result of some holes surrounded by houses, but the use of the desert areas is more imaginative than other Dubai courses. Peerless conditioning.

5. Royal Dar Es Salam (Red)

Rabat, Morocco
Design 33 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 6 Consistency 9 Presentation 8 Total 80

Robert Trent Jones’ masterpiece is set in a cork oak forest and mixes the technical expertise of the famous architect with a tranquil setting of trees, flowers and water. Restored by Coore-Crenshaw associate James Duncan, fifth is the least the Trophee Hassan host deserves. Tough, but brilliant.

4. Trump Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Design 33 Setting 11 Memorability 12 Playability 9 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 81

Trump Dubai gets mixed reviews – including among our panel – and we can’t help but feel that might be something to do with its owner, because this is a wonderful course in our opinion.

It’s a close second behind Yas in Middle East terms for some, as a result of green complexes that are firm, fast and have huge interest in them. The depression in the middle of the 7th is a particular highlight. Their requirement for you to be under the hole dictates strategy a lot, and celebrated architect Gil Hanse also gives a lot of options off the tee so the course gets better with each play.

The highlight is arguably the driveable, bunkerless par-4 12th – one of the most simple yet strategic holes you’ll find. It epitomised the benefit of width and angles beautifully, as is Hanse’s style.

3. Royal Palace of Agadir

Agadir, Morocco
Design 33 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 9 Total 83

One of the world’s most exclusive clubs, but fortunately we have enough experience of it to be confident about how we rank it.

It is the King of Morocco’s personal course and as such invitations to play it are negligible – although the European Tour was a regular visitor in the 2010s.

Laid out by Cabell Robinson under the Robert Trent Jones umbrella, it combines a gorgeous seaside setting with interesting architecture and predictably flawless conditioning.

2. Al Mouj

Muscat, Oman
Design 32 Setting 15 Mem’lity 14 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 85

So, so close at the top. Al Mouj would have been a worthy No.1 and if Yas had not improved its presentation of late, it would have snatched top spot. This is our favourite work by Greg Norman, who made fine use of a wonderful Gulf-side site to create hole after memorable hole.

It pips Yas for setting, and rarely do you go for long with hitting towards, alongside or over the edge of the water. That is very rare in the Middle East and sets Al Mouj apart from pretty much anywhere else.

A contender for our World Top 100, it is beautifully presented and Oman has a course to be exceptionally proud of.

1. Yas Links

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Design 34 Setting 14 Memorability 14 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 86

Our inaugural Middle East and North Africa No.1 is, perhaps, no surprise, given it is in our World Top 100. It had strong competition, as the marks illustrate, but Yas’ combination of a breathtaking location on the edge of the Arabian Gulf and the nous of master craftsman Kyle Phillips make this an outstanding, bucket list course.

Its name and its look suggest a links experience, but it is ‘links like’ rather than the type of thing we experience on our coasts. You aren’t going to find fescue grass in this climate, so you can’t run the ball as much as you would at Elie, Aberdovey or Deal. Nevertheless, Yas has the superb shaping, greens and bunkering that Phillips is known for at the likes of Kingsbarns and California Club, and with sand-capped fairways and a regular breeze it is a treat to play.

There’s a really high-class finish, with 15-18 a tough climax, especially into the wind. It now has the Abu Dhabi Championship and the television images of this exhilarating seaside course will be a game- changer in terms of perceptions of golf in this part of the world. Now managed by Troon Golf, who are exceptionally strong in the Middle East, Yas has improved its conditioning in the past two years to match the quality of the course.

“I wanted to create a little piece of Scotland in the Gulf and I’m delighted with how it has turned out and developed down the years,” says Phillips. We wholeheartedly agree.