A recent survey reveals that up to 95% of expatriates in the UAE believe their financial situation has improved or slightly improved compared to a year ago. The study, conducted by Hoxton Capital Management, involved 2000 expats in the UAE. Financial improvements were primarily attributed to salary increases by 55% of respondents, investment portfolio performance by 35%, property investments by 30%, and pension growth by 20%. This data is part of the 2024 Worldwide Wealth Survey. Mercer’s recent study indicates that salary growth is expected to outpace inflation due to increased demand for talent and economic expansion. Initially, 85% of UAE expats moved abroad for employment and better quality of life. Chris Ball, managing partner at Hoxton Capital Management, noted a positive financial sentiment among expats in the UAE, despite global concerns about the rising cost of living. Financial priorities for 60% of UAE expats include building savings, while 45% aim to invest, and 40% are interested in property transactions. Retirement planning is also a focus for 25% of expats in the UAE. The survey showed that only 60% of expats in other regions feel financially better off compared to their counterparts in the UAE. Regarding investment portfolio reviews, 45% of UAE expats conduct them weekly or monthly, 10% annually, and 15% rarely or never. In terms of financial management, 60% use apps, 45% use spreadsheets, and 10% use traditional methods like pen and paper. Interestingly, 30% of UAE expats do not have a relationship with a financial adviser. Ball also highlighted that more than half of the UAE respondents still prefer non-tech solutions for financial tracking, suggesting a gap in tech-based financial tools.
Text: Lara Palmer
22.07.2024
Salary increases and investment performance drive financial optimism among UAE expats