UAE: Abu Dhabi, Dubai ranked the world’s most tax-friendly cities for 2025; GCC dominated Global Top 20 | world News

TL; Dr.
- Abu Dhabi and Dubai are ranked first and second in the global list of tax-friendly cities.
- Seven Gulf cities including Riyadh and Doha converted it into the top 20.
- Ranking is based on laws, governance and legal structure.
Abu Dhabi and Dubai are now at the top of the world’s most tax-friendly cities, according to the 2025 Tax Friendly Cities Index. But they are not alone. As a whole, the Gulf region is quietly creating a strong reputation as a stable, reduced to global wealth.The new index, which is part of the wealth report of Multipolitan 2025: the tax generation is the first of its kind. It is based on hard data, statutory taxes, treaty networks and legal and governance power in 164 countries.It matters not only for ultra-rich, but also for professionals and business owners who want to protect and develop their property in a stable environment.
What is Tax Friendly Cities Index?
The Tax Friendly Cities Index ranks major cities in the most taxed countries. It uses a multi-factor scoring system, given:
- Tax rates and structures (income, property, heritage)
- Repeat Treaty coverage
- Governance and legal power
According to Gabrielle Reid, the head of insight, multipolitan, “in a world where the dynamics of wealth have become rapidly liquid, taxation is one of the most powerful livers that choose to live, invest, invest and preserve their wealth.This index is not about flaws or tax haven, it is about the forecast, skilled systems where residents and investors know what is expected.
UAE leads the list
Abu Dhabi ranks first overall. It provides fees related to low assets and a strong legal system, which also gives it an edge over Dubai.Dubai stands out for its global connection, business infrastructure and strong treaty network. Its long -standing appeal for mobile professionals and investors is supported by years of economic plan and policy stability.Both cities reflect the ongoing push of UAE to become a global wealth management and lifestyle hub. Their legal clarity, infrastructure, and tax benefits make them highly attractive, not only for ultra-rich, but also for long-term thinking for any global resident.
Gulf city dominates
Seven Gulf cities made it in the global top 20, pointing to a broad regional change. Abu Dhabi (#1) and Dubai (#2), Manama (#4), Doha (#5), Kuwait City (#8), Riyadh (#12), and Muscat (#17) also finished high.These cities only provide less or zero income tax. Governments across the region are building strong legal systems, improving financial regulation, and investing in infrastructure. They are making it easy for global investors and families to arranged and operate with long -term confidence.This change is not only about paying low tax. It is about stability, structure and plan for the future in a world that is changing rapidly.
Full Top 20 Tax Optious City (2025)
According to the 2025 Tax Friendly Cities Index, by Multipolitan, these are the top 20 tax-friendly cities this year:
- Abu Dhabi
- Dubai
- Singapore
- Manma
- Doha
- Zuric
- Hong Kong
- Kuwait City
- George Town
- Hamilton (Bermuda)
- Macau
- Riyadh
- Stockhom
- Bookurrestie
- Port Louis
- Saint johns
- Muscat
- Pratish
- Sophia
- Telin
Fasting
1. Why did Abu Dhabi rank more than Dubai?Abu Dhabi has less property related fees and strong legal structures, giving it a small benefit on Dubai.2. What kind of taxes are considered in this index?The index looks at income taxes, property related taxes, heritage regulations and tax treaties, and overall rule.3. Is this only relevant to super-rich?No, while the index focuses on high-to-qualified individuals, insight applies to any person considering a stable, reduced transfers in an environment, investment, or long-term financial plan.