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2026 GCC Investment Barometer

The 2026 GCC Investment Barometer is AlRayan Bank's fourth annual study of Gulf investment sentiment towards the UK property market

2026 GCC Investment Barometer: GCC investors remain committed to UK property despite regional uncertainty

Conducted in June 2026, the research surveyed 150 high-net-worth investors with a minimum of £10 million in wealth and/or assets, split evenly across Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar. The Barometer provides a real-time view of how some of the Gulf's most active investors are thinking about UK property, international capital allocation and cross-border investment opportunities.

Here are the key findings:

Are GCC investors still investing in UK property?

Yes. 99% of GCC high-net-worth investors plan to make new or increased investments in UK property over the next five years. The average planned investment is £78.3 million, while 95% believe UK property will remain a strong investment opportunity over the next five years.  

How is political instability in the Middle East affecting UK property investment?

Political instability is changing investment behaviour rather than reducing demand for UK property.

  • 51% say conflict or instability in the Middle East makes them more likely to invest in UK property.
  • 31% are increasing their UK property allocation.
  • 30% are accelerating investment plans.
  • However, 38% are diversifying into markets beyond the UK and 32% have delayed some planned UK investments. 

Why do GCC investors continue to choose UK property?

  • Strong rental growth potential (66%)
  • Long-term returns (56%)
  • The UK's supply-demand imbalance (55%)
  • Stability of UK policy (56%) 

Are opportunities in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar reducing UK investment?

No. The research shows GCC domestic growth is supporting UK investment rather than replacing it.

  • 89% say growing opportunities in their home markets are increasing their UK investment.
  • 57% say income generated from UK assets can be reinvested back into their home markets. 

Which GCC market is driving the most UK property investment?

Saudi Arabia is the strongest growth market.

  • Average planned UK property investment has increased from £81.9 million in 2025 to £98.5 million in 2026.
  • 96% of Saudi investors believe UK property will remain a strong opportunity over the next five years.
  • 24% plan to invest £100 million or more in UK property over the next five years. 

Is London still attracting GCC investment?

Yes. London remains the leading city globally for completed property investments.

  • 33% invested in London during the previous 12 months.
  • This places London ahead of Singapore (24%), Paris (23%) and New York (23%).

Which UK cities are attracting GCC investors beyond London?

Outside London, the most attractive cities are:

  • Liverpool (34%)
  • Birmingham (27%)
  • Manchester (25%)
  • Bristol (22%)
  • Cardiff (18%) 

What types of UK property are GCC investors buying?


Investment is broadening beyond luxury homes and trophy assets.

Leading sectors for future investment are:

  • Property development (30%)
  • Retail (29%)
  • Affordable housing (28%)
  • Hospitality and leisure (28%)
  • Build-to-rent (24%)
  • Student accommodation (23%)
  • Industrial and logistics (23%) 

Key facts about GCC investment in UK property

  • 99% plan new or increased UK property investment.
  • Average planned investment is £78.3m.
  • 51% say Middle East instability increases their likelihood of investing in UK property.
  • Saudi investors plan to invest £98.5m on average.
  • London remains the leading destination for GCC capital.
  • Property development is the most attractive future investment sector.
  • 89% say opportunities in GCC home markets are increasing UK investment rather than reducing it.