In 2025, the UAE attracted US$33.2 billion of announced greenfield foreign investment. The biggest share by capital went to Ras Al Khaimah: US$10.61 billion across 17 projects. Dubai drew US$8.45 billion, but across 1,202 projects.
The catch
Most of RAK's figure is one project: a US$10 billion smart manufacturing hub for electric vehicles, hydrogen technologies and semiconductors. And these are announced capital commitments, not money already spent. Dubai still wins clearly on the number of projects. I would rather tell you that than have someone point it out in the comments.
Why it still matters
This is my read, and only a read. Ras Al Khaimah is building an industrial base underneath the tourism story. An emirate with manufacturing jobs, hotels and the UAE's first licensed casino resort has more than one engine. That is a different kind of economy sitting behind the island.
What it does not mean
It does not mean property prices will follow, and it does not mean the factory will be built on schedule. Treat it as context, not as a reason to buy.
Source: fDi Markets data as reported in UAE coverage, 2026.