Dubai Residents Prefer Experiences Over Material Goods, Report Finds

The study highlights that over half of respondents allocate up to a quarter of their disposable income to experiences, with 26 percent indicating they’d happily spend even more. Furthermore, 85 percent said they actively seek out a new experience at least once a month, underscoring the city’s appeal as a hub for unique and memorable activities.

Shifting demographics in the UAE may partly explain this change, with younger generations – particularly Gen Z and millennials – placing a higher value on emotional well-being and personal growth than on material accumulation. The report notes that Dubai’s vibrant entertainment scene, which includes helicopter rides, fine dining, and cultural events, aligns perfectly with this experiential focus.

The shift also reflects a broader global trend toward the 'experience economy,' where people prioritize emotional and social rewards over physical possessions. Thomas Gilovich, a professor of psychology at Cornell University, suggests that experiences often provide a deeper sense of self and connection compared to owning material goods.