News / Insights

Global Business Districts (GBDs) represent some of the most strategic hubs in major cities: they are business centers that concentrate human capital, decision-making functions, infrastructure networks, and innovation, making a decisive contribution to urban competitiveness and the attractiveness of the regions. The ULI report analyzes the evolution of GBDs—identifying 30 of them across 19 countries using a set of criteria based on an urban population exceeding 2 million inhabitants, high building density, at least 500,000 square meters of office space, and a significant presence of international headquarters—based on 2,400 indicators organized into eight categories, weighted according to the relevance attributed to the opinions of key corporate stakeholders.

Despite the impact of hybrid work and post-pandemic economic transformations, 63% of respondents now consider GBDs more attractive than in 2020. The districts analyzed generate a strong economic impact, employ over 7 million workers, and host 84 Fortune 500 corporate headquarters, confirming their status as central hubs for capital, talent, and executive activities. The performance highlights the resilience of historic districts, with New York (Midtown and the Financial District) taking the top two spots, followed by Tokyo Marunouchi, La Défense, and the City of London. The global economic center of gravity is shifting toward Asia, which accounts for four of the top ten GBDs thanks to economic growth, infrastructure, and the presence of major corporations.

However, the report also highlights several common challenges: weak demand for office space in secondary markets, rising operating costs, difficulties in attracting innovation (only 19% of respondents believe that GBDs foster an ideal environment for innovation), and delays in the climate transition, with less than 10% of stakeholders convinced of the districts’ ability to effectively address climate risks.

The survey identifies four strategic directions for the future: attracting talent through vibrant and accessible districts; renewing the real estate portfolio by focusing on quality, services, and sustainability; leveraging advanced technologies—including AI, digital twins, and smart infrastructure—to improve efficiency and competitiveness; and accelerating climate resilience through sustainable mobility, energy retrofits, and green infrastructure. GBDs are transforming into “social districts” capable of integrating work, residence, culture, and leisure, becoming magnetic and multifunctional neighborhoods. The districts that can combine innovation, inclusivity, and ecological transition will therefore be the most competitive in the next economic cycle.