Let’s begin with the basics—geography and climate. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are located along the Persian Gulf coast, making them essential trade and tourism hubs. Dubai is slightly further north, closer to the eastern coast, and it’s smaller in area than Abu Dhabi, which occupies nearly 87% of the country’s land.

The climate in both Emirates is similar: hot and humid summers, with temperatures reaching up to +45°C, and mild winters, attracting tourists from all over the world. In summer, no sane person, except perhaps an investor, would risk a walk in the midday sun, while in winter, one can enjoy comfortable temperatures of around +20°C. However, while Dubai feels drier and more urbanized, Abu Dhabi retains some nature reserves and mangrove forests that help moderate the climate in certain areas.

Let’s talk about the people who inhabit these Emirates and the population growth dynamics over the past decade. Dubai is a melting pot of nations. Over 85% of its residents are expatriates who come to work, live, and enjoy the best of the best conditions. Over the last 10 years, Dubai’s population has grown from 2.2 million to over 3.6 million. This increase is due not only to economic growth but also to progressive immigration rules that attract highly skilled professionals and entrepreneurs from around the world.

Abu Dhabi is also actively developing, but its population growth has been less pronounced — from 1.5 million to 2.9 million over the same period. This is because Abu Dhabi is more focused on the domestic market and government companies, making it more stable but less dynamic.

Demographic Conclusion: Dubai wins with its openness, attracting people from all corners of the globe, creating constant demand for commercial and residential real estate. Abu Dhabi boasts stability and a higher concentration of local residents, reducing market fluctuations but also limiting growth.

We can’t overlook Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina in Dubai. These are the city’s landmarks, attracting investments not only due to their status but also because of the infrastructure surrounding them. Dubai Creek Harbour promises to become a new attraction hub for businesspeople and tourists.

Abu Dhabi is betting on cultural sites: the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Saadiyat Island are designed to attract art lovers and those seeking peaceful relaxation. Commercial projects are also impressive here—Al Maryah Island is becoming a financial and business center with a focus on innovation and sustainability.

When it comes to transaction rules, Dubai offers the most liberal regulations: foreigners can buy property in special free zones without restrictions. Abu Dhabi has slight nuances; for instance, in some areas, properties can only be leased long-term, but this doesn’t detract from the city’s appeal for foreign investors.

The population in both Emirates continues to grow, but growth rates in Dubai are significantly higher. Over the last 10 years, the population has nearly doubled, confirming the city’s attractiveness for expatriates and entrepreneurs.

Abu Dhabi is also growing, but less dynamically, with about a 1.4 times increase over the same period. This indicates a more stable but less flexible economic structure.