London Tops Global Property Choices for GCC High-Net-Worth Investors

wenty-nine percent of high-net-worth investors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) purchased property in London over the past 12 months, placing the UK capital ahead of New York and Paris (23%), Los Angeles (22%), and Tokyo (21%). The survey covered investors from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

The data comes from AlRayan Bank’s third annual GCC Investment Barometer, based on responses from 150 investors, each with a minimum net worth of GBP 10 million. The report found that 99% of participants plan to increase or make new investments within the next five years. The most targeted sectors include retail property (44%), hospitality and leisure (36%), and student accommodation (34%).

Confidence in the UK property market has grown notably, with 93% of respondents reporting increased optimism over the past year. Contributing factors include Bank of England base rate cuts, lower property prices in prime London districts such as Mayfair, Chelsea, Westminster, and Belgravia, visa-free travel for Gulf nationals, and a 24% Capital Gains Tax rate.

Investor interest within London is diversifying: central areas remain the top choice at 38%, followed by East London (36%), the suburbs (33%), and North London (29%). Beyond the capital, Liverpool continues to lead as the most popular regional investment destination for the third consecutive year, followed by Cardiff, Brighton, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.

When asked about investment drivers, 57% cited returns and rental growth as their main motivation, followed by favourable purchase terms (56%). Sustainability is also a growing consideration, with 95% of investors evaluating environmental credentials when making decisions.