Global wealth mobility in 2026 is being shaped by multi-jurisdictional planning and optionality rather than outright permanent relocation, according to an analysis published in CEOWORLD magazine by Christos Papadimitriou, founder of 47HNWI. Wealthy individuals are increasingly acquiring secondary residencies and citizenships across jurisdictions while keeping their primary residences in place.
Henley & Partners published its June 2026 wealth report without new net millionaire inflow and outflow projections, following industry criticism of earlier estimates reported by outlets including The Banker. The firm's 2025 report had estimated that 142,000 millionaires would relocate in 2025 and projected 165,000 for 2026, which included an estimated net gain of 9,800 high-net-worth individuals for the UAE.
Application data from Henley & Partners for the first five months of 2026 showed applicants from 86 nationalities across 47 investment migration programs, with over 28% already residing outside their country of nationality. In the Gulf, inquiries from UAE-based individuals increased 41% between the fourth quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026, while applications for alternative residence or citizenship rose 29%.
Dominic Volek, Henley's group head of private clients, stated that the UAE trend reflects diversification rather than departure, with individuals largely using the country as an operational base. The analysis notes that flexible residence schemes, including the UAE golden visa, allow investors to secure optionality without necessitating a permanent departure from their established bases.
Sources
- CEOWORLD magazine · 2026-10-12
