Dubai is attracting 32% of new recruits pursuing careers in international financial services, despite being drawn into the US-led war with neighbouring Iran and coming under direct missile and drone fire.
Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, one of the world’s largest advisory organisations, and which has $14 billion under advisement globally from more than 80,000 clients says: “Dubai is attracting talent even with conflict on its doorstep. New recruits are focused on earnings, opportunity and international exposure, and that’s driving decisions.”
The findings are based on a global poll of early-career and newly qualified professionals targeting roles in international financial advisory and wealth management. The results show a clear shift toward starting careers in cross-border finance from day one, rather than building experience in domestic markets first.
Other jurisdictions include Italy, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Mauritius, Hong Kong, Australia and Malaysia.
63% of respondents say they want international client exposure from the outset, prioritising roles that involve working across jurisdictions. Dubai’s position as a hub connecting Europe, Asia and Africa continues to underpin that demand.
A further 57% say access to expatriate and internationally mobile clients is a key factor behind their relocation plans. For new recruits, the ability to engage with clients who hold assets and interests across borders is seen as essential for accelerating the career experience.
Nigel Green says: “Starting in an international environment gives professionals a faster track. Dubai offers access to global clients from day one, which is a major advantage early in a career.”
The strength of demand stands in contrast to the security backdrop. The UAE has been directly targeted during the conflict with Iran, with repeated missile and drone attacks across the region and elevated threat levels continuing to shape the environment.
Even so, the poll indicates that geopolitical risk is not a primary deterrent.
Only 9% of respondents say the conflict would stop them from relocating, while the majority place greater weight on long-term career opportunities.
Tax remains a central driver. 66% of recruits identify higher net income as a key motivation, with Dubai’s zero-income-tax structure continuing to differentiate it from established financial centres in Europe. The ability to retain earnings at an early stage is a major factor in relocation decisions.
Career progression is also shaping choices. 59% expect faster advancement in Dubai compared to their home markets, supported by sustained hiring demand and expansion among international advisory firms serving globally mobile clients.
The deVere CEO notes: “Financial professionals are making deliberate decisions about where to begin.
“Dubai offers higher net earnings, strong demand for talent, and access to international markets. Those factors are seemingly outweighing geopolitical concerns.”
The poll also highlights rising visibility of Dubai as a financial centre among new entrants. 48% of respondents report increased awareness of career opportunities in the UAE over the past 12 months, reflecting continued expansion across international advisory firms.
Nigel Green concludes: “With nearly one in three new recruits targeting Dubai, the emirate is strengthening its position as a central entry point into international financial services.
“The sustained inflow of early-career talent is reinforcing its role in connecting global clients and capital, even as regional tensions remain elevated.”
