Images of luxury around the world come to mind when picturing the perfect location for executive nomads; great connectivity, consistently warm weather, and high quality of life. Our latest edition of the Savills Executive Nomad Index ranks the top 25 locations for these globetrotting individuals.

The large, well-connected cities in the Middle East of Dubai and Abu Dhabi rank first and second, respectively, thanks to exceptional digital and physical connectivity. Cities with beachside access continue to outperform in the top 10, led by Málaga (3rd), Miami (4th), Lisbon (5th), Barcelona (6th) and Palma (7th).

What is an executive nomad?

In comparison to the more common digital nomad – usually characterised as a young backpacker with a laptop – executive nomads tend to be older, more likely to travel with family in tow and put more emphasis on physical and digital connectivity. For these individuals, a location’s safety and access to healthcare and education facilities are as important as digital connectivity – characteristics that the top international locations in our index have in common.

Executive nomads are more likely to rent, with an emphasis on extra space and proximity to local amenities. Prime rents have risen, on average, by 5% in the last year across the 25 locations monitored in our index, with some urban markets seeing increases of more than 15%.

Central to any location’s success in attracting these professionals are digital nomad visa schemes. Ever since Estonia launched the first, in 2020, the number of destinations offering such visas has expanded amid growing competition for international talent. South Africa became one of the latest to offer one, in May 2024, resulting in Cape Town joining our index.

New lifestyle, new locations

Other new entrants to our list this year include the Costa Rican capital San José – our first Central American destination, which attracts those executive nomads looking for nature-based adventure. New index addition Palermo, meanwhile, offers a more affordable alternative to Florence or the Tuscan countryside for executive nomads attracted to the Italian lifestyle. Grenada combines the Caribbean way of life with remote exclusivity. Bali and Cape Town represent two additional coastal international destinations in south-east Asia and southern Africa, respectively.

What is the Savills Executive Nomad Index?

We analysed 25 destinations based on their appeal and ease of access for long-term remote workers. Each has then been ranked for their internet speed, air connectivity, stability in climate, prime residential rental market prices and overall quality of life.

Source: Savills Research (note, prime rents receive a half weighting)

United Arab Emirates

Executive Nomad Index rank: Dubai 1, Abu Dhabi 2

Dubai and Abu Dhabi occupy the first and second places in our index. Both cities rank highly in several categories, however, Dubai has a large advantage in terms of its air travel links, which places it ahead of Abu Dhabi overall. Combined with a plethora of world-class amenities and indoor entertainment options, there is no shortage of places for executive nomads to escape the summer heat and enjoy the winter warmth in either city.

“Dubai and Abu Dhabi are incredibly appealing to executive nomads, because they offer everything you need to thrive both personally and professionally, from modern infrastructure to high quality of life,” says Andrew Cummings, Head of Residential Agency Middle East at Savills.

While these cities are well known for their tourist attractions and luxury hotels, there is much more to Dubai and Abu Dhabi: “We’ve seen a real focus on creating a lively business environment where there are plenty of opportunities to grow, build networks and make lifelong connections,” adds Andrew.

Lisbon

Executive Nomad Index rank: 5

Lisbon has remained a top-five destination since we launched our index in 2022. This is largely due to the high quality of life that Portugal offers compared with many of its peers, combined with strong performances in all other categories – although rising rents are becoming a pressure point. Prime rents increased more than any other location in our index in the last year, up by 31%.

“Connectivity, innovation, a diverse cultural scene and good weather year-round are key factors that make Lisbon attractive to executive nomads,” says Miguel Lacerda, Lisbon Residential Director, Savills.

“Lisbon offers a strong proposition, primarily based on its authenticity, but also based on its business potential in terms of human talent and an increasingly present international business community.” This international edge is crucial to the city’s enduring success as a hub for executive nomads.

Cape Town

Executive Nomad Index rank: 17

Cape Town stands to benefit from the South African government’s recent introduction of a Digital Nomad Visa programme, making it a key destination for travellers and business people in the global south. With recent elections bringing the prospect of political and economic stability, the port city has a lot to offer the executive nomad.

”Having a well-run city adds to the appeal of Cape Town, as does its natural scenic beauty and amenities,” says Basil Moraitis, Regional Head of Pam Golding Properties in the Western Cape (Savills associate in South Africa). “Whether they are looking to unwind on the pristine shores or embark on adventures through breathtaking trails, Cape Town offers a delightful mix for nomads.

“Another significant advantage for executive nomads is the favourable exchange rate to the US Dollar, the Pound, and the Euro, which allows for comfortable living at a fraction of the cost compared to other major cities.”

Palermo

Executive Nomad Index rank: 22

Palermo, capital of the island of Sicily, has a rich heritage and long history. It is the most affordable major prime rental market in Italy, with prime rents 70% lower than Florence. The city also has a globally renowned foodie scene and a seasonal climate – ideal for those seeking more temperate weather in the winter months.

“The past two decades have brought significant public and private investments to Palermo and the city is now benefiting from a cultural and economic regeneration,” says Danilo Orlando, Head of Residential, Savills Italy. “This also presents opportunities for scaling startups in the city’s commercial spaces, which typically have lower rents than other Italian locations.”

But the city isn’t just a business-friendly environment. “Most importantly, Palermo is a welcoming city, which also offers high quality of life through amenities, affordability and the ease of creating new networks there,” says Danilo.