Here Come the Executive Nomads

The term digital nomad tends to conjure up images of 20-something coders toiling away  from a beach café, but the trend has lately been climbing the corporate ladder. More and more executives and C-suite leaders worldwide have begun leveraging their ability to work remotely, visiting exciting new destinations while continuing to run their business.

These execs, however, tend to seek out places that prioritize infrastructure, global connectivity, and a balanced lifestyle, allowing them to thrive professionally and personally.

In the third annual “Executive Nomad Index” by Savills, a global real estate advisory, the Emirates’ two biggest cities took the top spots. But the real winner may have been the Iberian Peninsula, which was awarded an impressive half of the top 10 slots.

1. Dubai, UAE

Dubai offers an unmatched level of air connectivity, making it ideal for traveling execs. The city also boasts top infrastructure, fast internet, and a high standard of living, as well as endless networking possibilities. For executives looking to expand their networks while enjoying luxury, Dubai is a wise choice.

2. Abu Dhabi, UAE

Just 90 miles south, the UAE capital city of Abu Dhabi offers a similarly high standard of living with less of the urban hustle and bustle. Executives appreciate its quieter, more relaxed environment, combined with the high-level infrastructure and seamless air connections.

3. Málaga, Spain

Nestled along the Mediterranean, Málaga is growing in popularity with corporates due to its sun-soaked beaches, temperate climate, and vibrant arts scene. While it offers a laid-back lifestyle, it’s equipped with robust co–working spaces and fast internet, ensuring a productive environment and ample opportunities for relaxation.

4. Miami, USA

Miami combines vibrant city life with a tropical climate, drawing execs who crave luxury and diversity. With its proximity to New York, Washington D.C., and Latin American hubs, Miami offers great global connectivity, a strong co-working ecosystem, and a high-end real estate market.

5. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has quickly risen to the top of digital nomad lists, thanks to its affordable, high-quality lifestyle. For C-suite nomads, the city offers strong tech infrastructure, a thriving business community, and stunning waterfront homes and activity—for much less than most other European cities.

6. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona continues to draw remote workers from all walks of life, including execs. Its balance of urban life, Mediterranean beaches, and excellent co-working spaces make it ideal for many. The city’s reputation as a tech and innovation hub is an added bonus, but be warned: residents are increasingly unhappy with foreign visitors.

7. Palma, Spain

Palma offers the beauty of the Balearic Islands plus easy connectivity to European capitals. The tranquil environment combined with world-class marinas, fine dining, and co-working spaces makes it a hidden gem for executives seeking work and leisure.

8. Barbados

For those seeking a tropical paradise, Barbados offers beautiful beaches and an attractive nomad visa program that should be a piece of cake for execs. With excellent internet and a slow pace of life, C-suite escape artists can unwind while still staying fully connected.

9. Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve is Portugal’s southern gem, a coastal region with stunning landscapes, rocky beaches, and high-quality modern living, including top golf courses. It’s an ideal destination for executives with families, as it offers safety, good healthcare, and excellent schools. We might count the Axtells, who’ve been running their financial advisory while traveling the world with three teens, among this group.

10. Saint Lucia

This Caribbean island nation is a little slice of paradise. Primarily a holiday hotspot, Saint Lucia’s growing infrastructure and dedicated digital nomad visa program have made it a major contender for execs seeking an exotic, relaxed lifestyle.

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An impressive six Caribbean islands made Savills’ full list of 25 destinations, as did the first Central American city—San Jose, in Costa Rica. Maybe Belize or Panama might make the list in the years ahead?

Other honorees included Dubrovnik, Mauritius, Cape Town, and Cyprus. What these places have in common are the essentials of remote work and unique environments that make for a fulfilling life. For executives looking to marry professional ambitions with enriching experiences, these cities offer an ideal blend of work and adventure.

This emerging era of executive nomadism is reshaping the way business leaders think about work. These days, the C-suite, like the coder’s cubicle, can be just about anywhere.

EA Editorial Staff