How Vietnam Emerges as a Prime Destination for Global Ultra-Wealthy Investors

Vietnam Insider – As global markets continue to face economic and geopolitical turbulence, high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) are becoming more selective in where they choose to invest and reside. Vietnam, with its strategic location, economic momentum, and improving quality of life, is increasingly seen as a rising star among emerging destinations for global wealth.

A Global Reallocation of Wealth

Traditional wealth magnets like New York, London, Paris, and Tokyo still attract elite investors, but newer investment hubs — including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Milan, and Sardinia — are gaining ground. These locations offer flexible golden visa programs and thriving, high-quality living environments.

The UAE, for example, grants 10-year residencies to foreign investors contributing at least $550,000. This initiative has driven luxury real estate prices in Dubai up 6.8% in 2024, with premium office space jumping 7% in the last quarter alone. Similarly, Italy’s flat-tax regime (€200,000 annually on global income) has sparked surging demand for luxury properties in Milan and Sardinia, where international buyers now account for 80% of the market.

At a corporate level, multinational firms are shifting operations in response to a growing need for skilled labor and reliable energy — especially in high-tech sectors like AI, chip production, and data infrastructure. As businesses re-evaluate supply chains and human capital ecosystems, investment destinations that offer integrated, stable environments are emerging as frontrunners.

“Location decisions today are driven not only by incentives or tax regimes, but increasingly by livability and lifestyle,” noted Paul Tostevin, Head of Global Research at Savills.

Vietnam: An Emerging Magnet for Global Wealth

According to Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance, foreign direct investment (FDI) into the country reached nearly $18.4 billion in the first five months of 2025, a 51.2% increase year-over-year. This robust growth underlines growing international confidence in Vietnam as both an investment hub and a lifestyle destination. Manufacturing remains the backbone, attracting $10.4 billion (56.6% of total FDI). Real estate surged with $4.99 billion, more than double last year’s figure. Science and technology drew $1.02 billion, while retail and wholesale sectors secured $596.8 million.

Sophie Dao, Senior Partner at GBS – a leading legal and business advisory firm for foreign investors in Vietnam – praised the country’s trajectory:

Sophie Dao, Senior Partner at GBS

“Vietnam is now firmly on the radar of global investors. The growth in FDI, particularly in real estate and high-tech sectors, is a clear indication that Vietnam is no longer just an emerging market — it’s a serious contender for long-term investment and residence.” She added: “From a legal perspective, we’ve seen significant efforts by the Vietnamese government to simplify procedures, improve transparency, and create a more business-friendly environment. This makes Vietnam increasingly attractive not only to corporations but also to the global elite seeking stable, strategic, and lifestyle-enhancing destinations.”

A Call for Policy Innovation

To compete more effectively with regional peers, experts suggest Vietnam should accelerate the rollout of tailored investor visa and residency programs. These initiatives would enhance its appeal to global HNWIs seeking not just returns, but also safety, prestige, and quality of life.

Equally important is the creation of international-standard living ecosystems—world-class healthcare, education, wellness, and personalized services. According to Matthew Powell, Director of Savills Hanoi:

“When affluent individuals experience world-class service and quality, they often return — and they bring others with them.” Sophie Dao echoed this sentiment: “A sophisticated lifestyle offering is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for attracting the world’s best. Vietnam has the potential to become a hub for both global business and refined living, but this requires proactive policymaking and ecosystem-building.”

Seizing the Window of Opportunity

As the global redistribution of wealth accelerates, Vietnam finds itself in a favorable position. With natural beauty, a fast-growing economy, and improving legal and infrastructure frameworks, the country is poised to become not only a place to invest, but also to live, build, and thrive.

“The world is watching,” said Sophie Dao. “Vietnam’s time is now.”

For more insights on Vietnam’s investment landscape and legal advisory services for foreign investors, follow Vietnam Insider and GBS.

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Source: Vietnam Insider