The annual report is issued by UBS, the Swiss financial institution known for managing the wealth of the world’s richest families and tracking global billionaire trends.
According to the findings, more wealthy families are relocating than ever before due to factors such as security, business opportunities, tax benefits and improved quality of life. The study revealed that 36 percent of the world’s billionaires have already relocated from their home countries at least once. Dubai, Singapore, London and New York have emerged as their preferred destinations.
The United Arab Emirates, particularly Dubai, has become a leading hub for global wealth. It continues to attract high-net-worth individuals from Pakistan, India, Europe and across Asia. Experts attribute this trend to Dubai’s tax-free environment, stable governance, economic strength and international lifestyle, all of which allow the wealthy to secure long-term stability.
The report highlights another major shift. Women billionaires increased their wealth at twice the pace of men in 2025. For example, if male billionaires saw growth of around three percent, women experienced growth of more than eight percent. The study notes that women have been investing more boldly in technology, finance and new businesses, which has helped accelerate their wealth expansion.
The report also recorded a significant jump in inheritance. Wealthy families transferred a record 297.8 billion dollars to their children in 2025, marking the largest intergenerational wealth transfer ever. Many young heirs have selected the UAE as their preferred base due to its business-friendly policies and global connectivity.
Self-made billionaires added a further 386.5 billion dollars to global wealth this year, with strong contributions from the United States, the Asia-Pacific region and the Middle East, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Looking ahead, the report predicts that nearly 7 trillion dollars will be transferred to the next generation by 2040. Experts say the continued movement of wealthy individuals towards stable financial hubs such as Dubai reflects the UAE’s rising significance in the global economic landscape. This trend is expected to accelerate, especially among investors from Pakistan and other developing countries seeking security and long-term opportunity.
