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13.10.2025
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You can consider investing money in Russia and other countries. For example, the United Arab Emirates is very attractive for investments today. Favourable conditions and rules that operate in this country provide a decent choice of options for where to invest funds to receive a substantial income.
Who hasn't heard the term "inflation" these days? In simple terms, this is the devaluation of money. This process is expressed in rising prices for goods. In other words, the quantity of products that can be bought per unit of money decreases.
Inflation is a floating value. For example, in Russia in 2022 it was 11.94%, and by July 2024 it decreased to 5.06%. In the USA in 2022, there was an anti-record of the last forty years — 6.5% annual inflation, and according to preliminary results for 2024, it will be around 3%.
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From all this information, ordinary consumers need to understand the following:
Hence the question arises — where to invest money?
Let's talk about the most traditional ways of investing, where the risk of losing funds is the lowest. That means that we will consider traditional financial mechanisms, tested by time and practice.
This does not mean that profitability there is low. As everywhere, a competent approach to investment options, as well as a clear understanding of the capabilities of a particular investment asset, can bring quite serious income.
Investment instruments:
In the broadest sense, these are the financial institutions that answer the question of where to invest money with interest. For Russian citizens, this is the most popular way to preserve and multiply money.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
low profitability. Due to the specifics of these credit and financial institutions (FIs) operating with borrowed funds, they cannot (most often) provide clients with a deposit interest rate substantially higher than the inflation rate. So while you can preserve funds using a bank deposit, serious capital multiplication is unlikely.
This investment instrument occupies an intermediate position between a deposit and a current account in the bank. On one hand, it provides the possibility of accruing an interest rate on the investment amount. However, it will be less than on a deposit.
On the other hand, it is much easier to deposit/withdraw money here. After all, a bank deposit does not provide for such operations at all, or it is associated with a significant reduction in interest rates.
Basically, a savings account is a version of a bank deposit, less profitable but more functional. Accordingly, you can preserve capital this way, but increasing it is even more difficult.
That's why it is so hard to answer the question of whether to invest money in a bank or not. Everything depends on the goals. Banks are ideal for preserving existing funds, but for capital multiplication, things are not so straightforward.
A security that is a simplified form of loan.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
In general, it should be understood that bonds as an investment means have the advantage of their high reliability (especially in the case of government securities). A precisely defined market circulation period and clear percentage income allow for fairly confident profit planning.
These are securities that give the right to own a share of the enterprise and receive part of the profit at the end of the year (a dividend).
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Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Without a doubt, this financial instrument can help in capital multiplication, but professional knowledge in matters of this market functioning is required. And the high investment risk indicates that buying shares is not the best answer to the question of where to invest a small amount of money.
Exchange-traded fund is an instrument that allows reducing risks for those who decide to invest in the securities market. Shareholders form a common portfolio that includes shares, bonds, and currency. Each investor has a share (unit) of it. The portfolio of securities is managed by a management company consisting of stock market specialists.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
The main problem with exchange-traded funds is that the investor cannot manage their money independently. This is taken over by the management company, but financial risks fall entirely on the depositors.
One of the most common answers to the question of where to invest money in Russia is: in gold and other precious metals. There is a simple explanation for this — price dynamics on world exchanges:
Today, this is one of the main instruments allowing capital preservation with minimal risks, and in the long term, its multiplication as well.
Until recent events in Russia and the world, investing in foreign currency was truly a people's means, no less common than opening bank accounts. Beyond competition there were traditionally the US dollar and (less often) the euro.
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Now, there is a growing popularity in moving from "Eurocentrism" in this matter to the monetary systems of our eastern neighbours — yuan (China), rupee (India), and so on.
However, the turbulent processes occurring in the financial market lately make such an investment option quite risky. At least, there is no unambiguous answer to the question of where to invest money right now. In any case, it won't be just one currency, but rather a basket of them.
This means buying housing and commercial buildings for subsequent resale or rental.
This is one of the most expensive options for investing money. And one of the more reliable ways to protect capital from inflation, whatever the housing market conditions may be. If the goal is to multiply funds, then you'll need to be patient. On the other hand, real estate is a valuable asset, but not very liquid.
The above-mentioned options for financial instruments designed to protect money from inflation generally end here. However, this problem can be looked at from a different angle.
Where to invest money, according to some experts? Try the same types of investment, but abroad and not in Russia. Where exactly? As an option — the United Arab Emirates.
What makes the United Arab Emirates attractive? In short — a good investment climate:
Where to invest money for good income? For example, buy real estate in Dubai for short-term rental. The city has recently become a very popular platform for various events, including those of economic profile.
During numerous large business forums like Expo or ArabHealth, demand for apartments immediately increases, especially in areas adjacent to exhibition venues (the well-known Dubai Sports City or Business Bay).
An important point is taxes. In the UAE, business is completely exempt from corporate income tax. This includes dividends on shares, capital gains, qualifying intragroup transactions and reorganizations (a company income between different jurisdictions).
The United Arab Emirates has one of the most advantageous value-added tax rates in the world — only 5%. For comparison: in Europe, VAT in different countries is 20% or more, in Russia — 20%, in China — 16%, in Japan — 8%.
The UAE is a federal state consisting of seven emirates (absolute monarchies by political structure). The most popular from investors' point of view is Dubai. And this is no coincidence.
Factors contributing to the formation of a comfortable investment environment in Dubai are the following:
In Dubai, as well as in the UAE in general, investors are welcome in agriculture, finance, transport, green energy, scientific and technological sectors. All directions for investment are available, as in Russia — the stock market, banking sector, real estate, and so on.
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Therefore, if you ask where it's better to invest money today, Dubai stands out positively from all the emirates of the state.
Several attractive aspects of investing specifically in Dubai's economy:
Another important moment for Russian citizens, who are wondering where to invest money in 2026, is that Europe is no longer a comfortable place for investments due to the sanctions. But we maintain friendly relations with the United Arab Emirates.
This makes the UAE economy very attractive for investment. It's no coincidence that there's a growing trend in the number of people wanting to acquire real estate, for example, in Dubai.
Specifics of the UAE, that are most attractive for investors:
This primarily concerns the exchange rate between the ruble and the dirham. Looking at the history of the matter, we can see the following:
These figures convincingly prove that investments in any segment of the UAE economy in the long term will allow capital multiplication due to the constant growth of the dirham against the ruble.
The most modern highways, elevated driverless metro, an extensive network of public routes, large seaports and airports have allowed the UAE in general and Dubai in particular to become a real transport hub in its region.
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Moreover, the conditions for living and working in Dubai are very comfortable. The city consists of several districts differing in real estate prices and living conditions. For example, Downtown Dubai and Business Bay are business centres, while Emirates Hills and Dubai Hills are created primarily as convenient places for life and leisure.
The government of the United Arab Emirates recognizes the importance of implementing modern digital technologies in all spheres of life. Thanks to this, special conditions have been created there for attracting IT specialists, providing them with good conditions for opening new startups and platforms for implementing innovative projects.
The United Arab Emirates is one of the safest countries for living, and not only for citizens of the state but also for foreigners. This is ensured, among other things, by rather strict control over visitors, given that at least 70% of the population in the UAE consists of labour migrants.
Getting a visa to Dubai is not difficult, but extending it will only be possible if there are no violations of the country's legislation. That's why data from the Gallup World Poll says that 95% of those living in the UAE feel safe even at night alone on an unfamiliar street.
Favorable weather, eternal summer and warm waters of the Persian Gulf create excellent conditions for both tourism and permanent residence in the UAE. Combined with the well developed transport and tourist infrastructures, all this makes life and leisure in Dubai very comfortable.
Additionally, such conditions make it possible to address issues of improving the environmental situation in the region. For example, it is possible to actively use solar panels as an alternative source of electricity generation.
All the above factors explain why the United Arab Emirates has become an attractive object for investment, especially in real estate. This is why many investors consider the purchase of real estate in the UAE the best answer to the question of where to invest money for passive income.
It is profitable because there is demand for housing and commercial properties. It is reliable because it's protected by the country's legislation. You won't be deceived: all transactions are carried out only by licensed agents and official developers, while money is transferred through state companies. The risk of losing funds is minimized.
The UAE government welcomes foreign investments in its economy, including in matters of creating new businesses. Foreigners have the right to own up to 100% of the entire business.
One of the main conditions is the minimum possible authorized capital amount (that depends on the type of activity) when opening an enterprise in the mainland part of the country. But if the future enterprise is being created in one of the free economic zones in the form of a limited liability company, then there are no such requirements.
In any case, the capital amount must be specified in the founding documents of the organization.
All the details and nuances related to this are contained in the UAE Federal-Decree Law No. 19 of 2018, which is called "On Foreign Direct Investment".
In addition to the capital requirements, investors must employ modern technologies, maintain high added value when selling their product, contribute to scientific and technical research within the UAE territory, and meet the requirements of the emirates' licensing authorities.
Foreign entrepreneurs starting their business in the UAE can choose from 122 types of activities, divided into three categories — manufacturing, agricultural and services. Should such an investor decide to pursue a different type of activity, they are entitled to own no more than 49% of the business.
This matter is set out in more detail in the UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 16 of 2020 Concerning the Determination of the Positive List of Economic Sectors and Activities Eligible for Foreign Direct Investment and Percentage of their Ownership.
If an investor wants to buy an already operating business, then all the requirements, restrictions and conditions listed in the UAE Federal-Decree Law No. 19 "On Foreign Direct Investment" remain in force.
The acquisition of a functioning enterprise has undoubted advantages. This includes, in particular, saving time, effort and funds both for launching production and obtaining a residence visa for work and living in the UAE.
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Naturally, there is a need to check all aspects of the company's life. Financial position, statutory documents, compliance with labor legislation, content of contracts with clients, and much more. It is advisable to conduct such an inspection with the participation of lawyers specializing in international law.
You should be prepared that this procedure and paperwork for the transaction as a whole will take about two months.
When changing company owners, it is recommended to close the previous company account and open a new one. This should be done because due to the peculiarities of the UAE legislation, the new business owner may unexpectedly “inherit” the financial obligations of the previous owner.
Foreign investors have ample opportunities to open savings and deposit accounts in UAE banks.
The conditions, of course, are very different, and everyone chooses a suitable bank rate. Here are some recommendations for those wanting to understand where to invest money with good interest:
In practice, this means that you buy precious metal in bars/coins or acquire shares of gold mining enterprises. The most common option for obtaining passive income is the second method.
Most often, an investor acquires shares on exchange-traded funds (called ETFs in the UAE), then hires a broker who directly manages the assets with the expectation of profit. In the long term, this instrument will most likely preserve the capital and provide an income.
The specifics of investing in gold in Dubai is that metal of different quality enters the market, and its price varies greatly. For example, in the 24K mark there is 99.9% gold, and in the 10K — less than 42%.
When comparing the two, the latter in terms of reliability and protection from financial risks are more preferable. In the Muslim state of UAE, Sharia laws also regulate some economic issues. Therefore, foreigners cannot buy corporate and individual bonds. But there are still government bonds that are available to investors.
The purchase and sale of securities occurs through stock exchanges. And that’s where much will depend on the strategy chosen by the investor. If one wants to ensure a low level of risk in the transaction, then bonds are purchased, but the profit will not be too large.
High levels of income, and equally the danger of losing invested funds, are provided by operations with shares. The investor purchases the securities, which are managed by a hired broker, and he cannot give any guarantees.
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There are three stock exchanges in the United Arab Emirates:
To participate in trading on the stock exchange, you need to obtain an Investor Number. This does not require a resident status (the right to live in the UAE for a long period). Then a trading account is opened with a broker licensed to work on the exchange and a contract is concluded with them.
An interesting way to effectively invest money in the UAE is buying shares of exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This effectively means that you have purchased a package of several ETFs on stock markets of more than 200 countries worldwide, which increases the reliability of these securities.
The cost of such stocks and bonds fluctuates throughout the day, they can be bought/sold at any moment while trading is conducted on the exchange. ETFs can be purchased by the investor themselves and by a hired broker. Due to the high transparency of these investments and the low cost, this can be a good option for an investment with monthly income.
The order and rules of their work can be found on the official website of the Securities and Commodities Authority of the United Arab Emirates (SCA). In general, the practice of these financial institutions is the same as worldwide.
The two types of mutual funds in the UAE:
This is currently the most popular option for investing funds in the UAE economy. It is considered, and not without reason, that this asset is stable and resistant to risks, while general trends in the construction sphere of the Arab Emirates only fuel investors' demand for housing.
Not least of all, this demand is stimulated by the policies of the UAE government. They are interested in the growth of foreign investment, and property acquisition is a good way of investing money for business people. This is also confirmed by statistics.
For example, in Dubai, in October 2022, there was a 77% growth in the number of real estate purchase transactions compared to the previous year.
In 2023, this indicator exceeded last year’s results by 30%. And the value of transactions grew by 56%. There is no reason to assume that 2026 will be an exception. Rent is also growing. By the end of the 2nd quarter of 2024, the indicator has increased by 19% compared to the same period last year.
It is a well-known fact that Chinese businessmen are very good at choosing the most profitable investment objects. So it’s of no surprise that investors from China are currently the most active participants in real estate transactions in the UAE.
From a legislative perspective, buildings in the United Arab Emirates can be purchased by not only citizens of the country but residents and foreigners as well. But there are some nuances.
There are two forms of property ownership:
Citizens of the United Arab Emirates as well as states located in the Persian Gulf zone (Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, etc.) can buy property in full ownership. If a foreigner wants to acquire property in full ownership, they can do this, but only in the free ownership zones (Freehold Zones).
There are a lot of them in Dubai. Having bought real estate there, a foreign investor can get a long-term visa in Dubai. This is not counting the right to dispose of property at their discretion, and in case of the owner's death, the transfer of property by inheritance.
The popularity of a particular area in Dubai for foreign investments is determined by the cost of real estate objects and living conditions. Villas, apartments, flats — everything is available and for any budget.
Certainly, everyone has their preferences. The most popular for capital investment remain The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Business Bay and Dubai Land.
These areas account for a third of all real estate acquisition transactions. And if there is a willingness and desire to invest funds in buildings abroad, then this is the best option for investing money in the UAE.
Experts studying the real estate market in the UAE note an interesting fact. Several years ago, housing (both regular and premium class) was bought primarily for personal residence. Now up to 70% of real estate is acquired for profit.
How can one receive income from real estate in the Arab Emirates? The most popular option here is to rent out housing. Specific amounts depend on a combination of factors, such as location, property type, rental period, conditions, etc. But on average, it's quite realistic to count on an income of 5–13%.
It's more profitable to rent an apartment daily. But this type of activity under UAE legislation falls under the hotel business section, which leads to the necessity of obtaining an appropriate license.
In any case, the United Arab Emirates occupies one of the leading places in the world when it comes to being supportive of real estate acquisition by foreigners. That is why investments in this industry are so attractive.
One of the indicators of the profitability of investments in real estate is the ROI (Return on Investment) index. According to specialists' calculations, ROI in the UAE is close to optimal indicators and amounts to an average of 7–12%. The highest ROI can be obtained by buying housing off-plan — before its construction is completed or at the project approval stage.
Another way to earn money on real estate in Dubai is its resale. This is also especially profitable if the apartment was bought off-plan. But one should take into account the peculiarities of the UAE legislation — it gives developers the right to establish their own procedure for resale.
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For example, a developer may allow the owner of an off-plan property to resell it only if at least 40% of its cost has been paid.
Another instrument for investing in the country's economy. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are companies that own property objects. Most often, these are commercial buildings, such as office buildings, business centres, hotel complexes, etc.
Buying REITs shares allows investors to receive dividends depending on the company's performance and contract terms. In the United Arab Emirates, income from real estate rental is not taxed, and profit averages around 8% annually. This is a good option.
Before spending considerable funds on housing, it's natural to want to find out the seller's reliability, as it affects both the quality of work and the construction time.
There are several dozen developer firms in the UAE, but the top 7 include Emaar Properties, DAMAC Properties, Sobha, Meraas, Nakheel, Ellington Properties and Select Group. Whether to stick to this list is for each investor to decide on their own.
There are no payments from rental income in the UAE. VAT of 5% is charged on commercial, hotel, or industrial real estate and only if the annual income from the use of such types of buildings exceeds 375,000 dirhams per year. There is no tax on the purchase of housing, but for the acquisition of commercial, hotel, or industrial real estate it is set at 5%.
To preserve and multiply capital in conditions of inflation, money needs to be invested where the risks are minimal and the profit is significant. One of the most effective areas is the purchase of real estate. This will save money, because it is much better to invest money every month in acquiring your own housing than spending the same amount on renting someone else's.
On the other hand, real estate is a source of income, and with competent management — quite a high one. And it's not necessary to consider only Russia as a place of investment. The UAE is one of the promising investment options in almost all possible areas.
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