Hidden Gems of Economic Prosperity: Cape Town, Bengaluru, Sharjah, Jeddah, and Riyadh - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

Hidden Gems of Economic Prosperity: Cape Town, Bengaluru, Sharjah, Jeddah, and Riyadh

3 mins read
economic growth wealth surge

Get ready to witness exceptional wealth growth in Cape Town, Bengaluru, Sharjah, Jeddah, and Riyadh. These cities are emerging as hidden gems of economic prosperity and are projected to challenge the traditional wealth hierarchy. With a compelling mix of robust economies, business opportunities, and strategic locations, these cities are poised to propel themselves to the forefront of global economic attention in the coming decade. Their impressive wealth growth stories highlight the shifting paradigms of global wealth distribution and their rise to prominence is worth watching.

Hidden Gems of Economic Prosperity: Cape Town, Bengaluru, Sharjah, Jeddah, and Riyadh. These cities are forging ahead, each narrating their unique tales of exceptional wealth growth. Their expected wealth booms could propel them to the forefront of global economic attention in the coming decade, challenging the traditional wealth hierarchy.

Cape Town: The Mother City’s Wealth Boom

Situated at the heart of South Africa, Cape Town, fondly referred to as the Mother City, is bracing itself for an influx of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Presently, the city is home to 7,400 millionaires. However, an incredible surge of 85% is projected over the next decade, raising the estimated count of millionaires to 13,500 by 2033. This expected economic bloom stands as a testament to the unique appeal of Cape Town, which seamlessly marries its captivating charm with burgeoning economic prospects.

Cape Town’s expected wealth explosion is not by chance, but is backed by its robust economy and strategic location. The city’s lure is not just about scenic beauty, but also about its potential for business opportunities. The rise in the number of wealthy individuals in the city is likely to stimulate further economic growth and attract more investors.

While Cape Town is not featured in the BRICS Top 10 Wealthiest Cities 2024 list, it is fast becoming a significant player in the global economy. This South African city’s anticipated economic growth paints a promising future and highlights its position as a rising powerhouse within the global wealth landscape.

Bengaluru: The East’s Silicon Valley

Bengaluru, the Indian city often compared to Silicon Valley, is also on the brink of a notable economic advancement. With a currently thriving technology sector, Bengaluru is the home of around 13,200 millionaires. This number, however, is estimated to soar to over 30,000 by 2033 – a staggering 125% wealth growth within the next decade.

This predicted wealth explosion is indicative of Bengaluru’s growing wealth and propels it to the vanguard of the fastest-growing cities within the BRICS bloc. Bengaluru’s economic boom is backed by its robust IT industry, which continues to attract investors from across the globe.

While Bengaluru may not currently occupy a spotlight, its impending economic explosion is poised to shift global attention, potentially redefining its economic status and affirming its position among the world’s economic giants.

Middle East: Sharjah, Jeddah, and Riyadh

The Middle East is also anticipating an economic expansion, specifically in Sharjah, UAE, and the Saudi Arabian cities of Jeddah and Riyadh. Andrew Amoils, Head of Research at New World Wealth, expects a significant wealth surge in these cities. Although Sharjah may not be as affluent as Dubai or Abu Dhabi, it’s emerging as a new epicenter of millionaire growth, outpacing both cities in terms of percentage growth.

Presently, Sharjah is home to around 4,100 HNWIs, but this number is expected to climb to over 9,000 by 2033, marking a 120% increase in wealth.

In Saudi Arabia, the cities of Jeddah and Riyadh are also primed for an impressive wealth explosion. Jeddah, which currently hosts around 7,500 HNWIs, is projected to double that figure, soaring to over 15,000 by 2033. Riyadh, currently housing approximately 18,200 HNWIs, is anticipated to almost double its millionaire population, reaching around 35,000 HNWIs by 2033. These anticipated growth rates of 100% and 90% respectively underscore the emerging economic power of these cities.

Rising to Global Prominence

Cape Town, Bengaluru, Sharjah, Jeddah, and Riyadh, while currently not hitting the radar of the BRICS Top 10 Wealthiest Cities, are forging ahead, each narrating their unique tales of exceptional wealth growth. This predicted expansion over the next decade not only emphasizes the dynamism of these cities but also challenges the traditional wealth hierarchy.

These five cities are a testament to the shifting paradigms of global wealth distribution, quietly yet confidently charting their rise to prominence.

While these cities might not be currently in the limelight, their expected wealth booms could propel them to the forefront of global economic attention in the coming decade. Their predicted economic evolution is a story that is still being penned. As of now, the world observes as Cape Town, Bengaluru, Sharjah, Jeddah, and Riyadh ready themselves to reveal their latent potential and reshape the global wealth map.

1. Which cities are emerging as hidden gems of economic prosperity?

Cape Town, Bengaluru, Sharjah, Jeddah, and Riyadh are emerging as hidden gems of economic prosperity.

2. What is Cape Town’s expected wealth growth rate?

Cape Town’s expected wealth growth rate is 85% over the next decade, raising the estimated count of millionaires to 13,500 by 2033.

3. What industry is driving Bengaluru’s economic growth?

Bengaluru’s economic growth is being driven by its robust IT industry.

4. Which cities in the Middle East are expecting a significant wealth surge?

Sharjah, Jeddah, and Riyadh are expecting a significant wealth surge in the Middle East.

5. What percentage growth in wealth is expected in Jeddah and Riyadh?

Jeddah and Riyadh are expected to experience growth rates of 100% and 90% respectively.

6. What do these cities’ expected economic evolutions indicate?

These cities’ expected economic evolutions indicate a shift in global wealth distribution and their rise to prominence challenges traditional wealth hierarchies.

Previous Story

Barrydale Hand Weavers: A South African Gem in World Fashion

Next Story

The Remarkable Journey and Unexpected Halt of Tyla Seethal

Latest from Blog

The Rise of Vaping Among South African Teenagers

Vaping is quickly becoming a popular habit among South African teenagers, drawn by sweet fruity flavors, flashy packaging, and the buzz on social media. Many teens vape to fit in with friends, feel cool and rebellious, or to escape stress and anxiety. However, what seems like harmless fun can quickly turn into addiction, affecting their health and wellbeing. Despite the risks, vaping is often misunderstood, making it harder for families and schools to stop this growing trend. It’s a serious challenge that needs everyone—parents, teachers, and leaders—to work together to protect young people’s futures.

South African Agriculture and the Changing Winds of Trade

Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has helped South African farmers sell fruits like avocados, wine, and citrus to the United States without paying extra taxes. This chance boosted farming communities, especially small farmers and women, by opening up new markets and encouraging growth. But recent U.S. tariffs threaten these gains, making it harder for farmers to compete and putting many livelihoods at risk. Still, South African farmers remain strong and hopeful, working hard to face these new challenges and keep their communities alive.

Trapped Abroad: Ashley Oosthuizen’s Journey Through Thailand’s Legal Labyrinth

Ashley Oosthuizen, a young South African woman, went to Thailand chasing her dreams but ended up trapped in a nightmare. After unknowingly signing for a package with illegal drugs, she was arrested and sentenced to over 13 years in prison, despite being innocent. Her mother moved to Thailand to fight for her, sharing Ashley’s story with the world and gaining support. Even when the real criminal confessed, the Thai courts kept Ashley behind bars. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the risks travelers face in foreign countries.

Shadows Along the Hennops: Three SAPS Officers Vanish and a River Gives Up Its Secrets

In April 2025, three South African police officers disappeared during a trip and were later found dead near the Hennops River, along with two others. Their white car vanished into the river’s dark, swirling waters, hiding clues and sparking a deep mystery. Families and the public mourned, demanding answers amid fears of foul play. The quiet river, once peaceful, now holds heavy secrets and reminds the nation of the dangers police face and the urgent need for justice.

Cape Town’s Boatbuilding: Crafting a Legacy on the Waterfront

Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry is a shining example of skill and tradition mixed with new technology. It creates beautiful, strong boats that are loved worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in the city. But now, new tariffs on exports, especially to the US, threaten this important work and the people who depend on it. Despite these challenges, boatbuilders, city leaders, and innovators are coming together to protect this proud craft. Their passion and teamwork fuel hope that Cape Town’s boatbuilding legacy will sail on strong into the future.