GCC cities dominate new global tax index, with Abu Dhabi ranked #1 and Dubai #2
Abu Dhabi and Dubai have been ranked the world’s most tax-friendly cities in 2025, according to the newly released Tax Friendly Cities Index by global wealth intelligence firm Multipolitan. The index, part of the firm’s Wealth Report 2025: The Taxed Generation, evaluates global cities across 164 countries based on tax laws, governance, legal frameworks, and treaty networks, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
Seven cities from the Gulf region made it into the top 20, including Manama, Doha, Kuwait City, Riyadh, and Muscat—solidifying the GCC’s growing reputation as a low-tax, high-stability hub for global investors and mobile professionals.
Abu Dhabi and Dubai lead the world in tax-friendliness for 2025, with seven GCC cities landing spots in the top 20
Abu Dhabi clinched the top spot owing to its low property-related fees and strong legal infrastructure. Dubai followed closely in second place, scoring high for its extensive global business ties, investment-friendly policies, and broad tax treaty network.
The index emphasizes long-term predictability and structured governance over mere tax avoidance. According to Gabrielle Reid, Head of Insights at Multipolitan, “Taxation is one of the strongest factors influencing where high-net-worth individuals and families choose to live, invest, and protect their wealth in an increasingly mobile world.”
Notably, the report also highlighted a broader transformation across the Gulf region. Manama (#4), Doha (#5), Kuwait City (#8), Riyadh (#12), and Muscat (#17) joined Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the top 20. These cities have made significant investments in legal reforms, financial transparency, and infrastructure, positioning themselves as credible destinations for international wealth and business relocation.
The index also includes other leading financial centers such as Singapore (#3), Zurich (#6), Hong Kong (#7), and Stockholm (#13), reflecting a mix of established and emerging hubs that provide both tax efficiency and legal clarity.
Full Top 20 Tax-Friendly Cities (2025):
- Abu Dhabi
- Dubai
- Singapore
- Manama
- Doha
- Zurich
- Hong Kong
- Kuwait City
- George Town
- Hamilton (Bermuda)
- Macau
- Riyadh
- Stockholm
- Bucharest
- Port Louis
- St. John’s
- Muscat
- Prague
- Sofia
- Tallinn
