From A-list Bollywood icons to global music royalty and Hollywood elites, Dubai has become the world’s go-to destination for celebrities who want more than just luxury, they want a lifestyle. Over the past decade, the emirate has seen a surge in visits, property purchases, brand endorsements, and lavish getaways by stars from India, South Africa, the US, and beyond.This isn’t just about beaches and brunches. It’s about cultural bridges, brand synergies, and a magnetic blend of security, sophistication, and sensory indulgence. Here’s a comprehensive look at why Dubai tops every celebrity’s list, not just as a travel hub, but as a second home.
Bollywood’s Deep Bond With Dubai
India and the UAE share a special diplomatic and cultural connection and nowhere is that more evident than in Bollywood’s love for Dubai. Celebrities from the Hindi film industry aren’t just visiting, they’re living, investing, and collaborating with the city at every level.
Shah Rukh Khan : The Face of Dubai
No one exemplifies this bond more than Shah Rukh Khan, who often refers to Dubai as his “second home.” The superstar and wife Gauri Khan own a luxurious villa on Palm Jumeirah and he has been an ongoing collaborator with Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM).In an official promotional film under the #BeMyGuest campaign, Shah Rukh said:“Dubai is a second home to me. Whether I am here on vacation with my family and friends, or my many business trips here for shoots, it’s a city that I truly relate to on many levels, driven, passionate and spirited.”The campaign featured him skydiving, dining, dune bashing, and inviting global audiences to “come with me, be my guest.”He added:“Dubai offers endless experiences that stay with you forever… whether you’re travelling with family, friends or as a couple, this city truly offers a complete holiday experience.”Issam Kazim, CEO of DCTCM, affirmed this collaboration’s success:“Shah Rukh Khan truly represents the beautiful relationship that Dubai and India share.”“Our tourism efforts are increasing every year, with a major emphasis on the Indian market. We are excited to invite Indians from all over the world to experience Shah Rukh Khan’s Dubai for themselves.”Following his invitation, young stars like Parineeti Chopra and the late Sushant Singh Rajput rang in the New Year in Dubai, sharing their experiences on social media.
Salman Khan : Brand Icon and Frequent Visitor
Salman Khan, another megastar, has been featured on UAE billboards promoting homegrown brands such as Splash, a Middle East fashion label.He has often been seen strolling Dubai’s malls or vacationing with rumoured partner Iulia Vantur. In 2023, a Pakistani fan even purchased a Dubai number plate featuring the actor’s birthday, “27/12 S,” in tribute.Salman has filmed hits like Kick, Dabangg, and Partner in the UAE and his family reportedly owns property in the city. In 2023, he also met H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, at a UAE Embassy event in Mumbai.
Shilpa Shetty: From Resident to Luxury Guest
Shilpa Shetty, actress and wellness entrepreneur, confirmed to the local media outlet Khaleej Times that she recently sold her apartment in the iconic Burj Khalifa:“I used to have a home in Dubai but we just very recently sold it… it’s lovely to have a two-bedroom place when you don’t have a child. But when you have a child, you want a bigger space.”Though she’s moved out of her Burj home, Shetty hasn’t moved away from Dubai. As the brand ambassador of Danube Properties, she’s actively involved in local real estate campaigns. She also launched her book The Great Indian Diet in Dubai and led the XYoga Dubai festival alongside yoga guru Suneel Singh, drawing over 9,000 participants.
Anil Kapoor: Family-Driven Investment
Veteran actor Anil Kapoor purchased a two-bedroom apartment in the ‘Ritz by Danube’ housing project. At a Dubai press conference (IANS reported), he joked:“I do not have that nose to smell business, but my better half being Sindhi is apt at it.”Calling Dubai his “second home”, Kapoor noted his family’s love for the city and the investment appeal surrounding Expo 2020. He regularly visits Dubai for film shoots (Welcome Back was shot here), promotions, and award ceremonies.
Hollywood and African Celebs: Chasing the Dubai Dream
Dubai isn’t just a magnet for South Asian celebs. Western stars and African entertainers are also flocking to the city, for performances, parties, and high-profile vacations.
Beyoncé, Will Smith , Zac Efron & More
Dubai’s most extravagant moment in recent years? Beyoncé’s private concert to open Atlantis The Royal, which also hosted actress Ananya Panday, whose stay trended across platforms.Will Smith went skydiving over Palm Jumeirah.Zac Efron tore through the dunes in a buggy selfie session.Dubai is now the stage, and global celebrities are the headliners.
African Superstars and Lifestyle Icons
From Bonang Matheba to Connie and Shona Ferguson, and Shauwn Mkhize, African stars have made Dubai their festival season hotspot.Their days include:Desert safaris at sunset: quad biking, dune bashing, and awe-inspiring views.Yacht parties in the Dubai Marina: Bonang, Rosette Ncwana, and the Fergusons were all seen enjoying the luxe aquatic scene.The Burj Khalifa on New Year’s Eve: Mkhize left South Africa early just to watch the fireworks from her suite at The Address Dubai Mall Hotel.As IOL Lifestyle put it:“There’s a stillness in the desert that makes you realise how big the world is… It made me forget about all the woes of the world.”
The Lifestyle Factor: What Makes Dubai a Celebrity Magnet
Here’s why Dubai is the perfect mix of excess and ease for the world’s most famous faces:Luxury Real Estate & Hotels: From villas on Palm Jumeirah to serviced apartments in Downtown Dubai, the real estate is glamorous and private. Celebrities also love hotels like, Atlantis The Royal, The Address Dubai Mall and Burj Al Arab.Dining: Where Ceviche Meets Salt Bae, Dubai’s food scene is elite, literally. Stars are regulars at The Nusr-Et Steakhouse, made famous by Salt Bae (Rosette Ncwana posted her dining experience there).Coya, a Peruvian-Asian-Middle Eastern fusion spot at Four Seasons, beloved for ceviche, beef ribs, and Instagrammable mocktails like Purple Rain.Designer Malls & Desert Snow: From The Dubai Mall to Mall of the Emirates, shopping is a cultural event here. While Bonang was gifted luxury items during her stay, others skied at Ski Dubai or explored homegrown and designer brands across the city.
