From the outset, the country stands out for its privileged geographical location, acting as a bridge between continents and facilitating access to global markets. Portugal also benefits from political stability, safety, excellent mobility and energy infrastructures, a growing business environment, and an open economy that encourages competitiveness and innovation.

Beyond these distinctive factors, which already make Portugal an attractive destination, the country’s real strength lies in its unique balance of talent, economic competitiveness, and quality of life. In a world where retaining talent is increasingly challenging, companies are looking for locations that offer not only operational efficiency but also well-being for their teams. With its mild climate, outstanding gastronomy, safety, and welcoming culture, Portugal has become a magnet for highly skilled professionals, both local and international.

Human capital is now one of the strongest assets of the Portuguese economy. The active population, around 5.4 million people, shows steadily rising qualification levels, with English proficiency particularly high among younger generations, further boosting their global competitiveness. At the same time, investment in technological and digital education has positioned Portugal as a prime destination for companies from diverse sectors, including the automotive industry, healthcare, shared services, and the digital economy, among many others.

The dynamism of the office real estate market reflects this trend. In 2024, Lisbon recorded an absorption of over 193,000 m², while Porto exceeded 65,000 m², figures that underscore the confidence of both investors and occupiers. Demand for Grade A, modern, and sustainable spaces remains strong, driven by the shift toward flexible, certified workplaces (LEED, BREEAM) aligned with new hybrid work models and the growing focus on well-being in the workplace.

Moreover, Portugal continues to offer operating costs well below the European average, without compromising on quality or infrastructure. This balance between value and efficiency makes the country particularly appealing to international companies looking to expand their European footprint intelligently and sustainably.

Today, the decision to establish operations in Portugal goes far beyond economic reasons; it represents a strategic investment in the future of work. In a country that combines talent, quality of life, stability, and innovation, businesses find the ideal environment to grow: with eyes on the future and feet firmly grounded in a solid European foundation.

by Marina Rosa, Head of Office, Dils Portugal