I’m 19, getting money from a house sale: real estate, stocks, or something else?

Hi everyone,

I’m 19 and I’ll soon be selling a house. I already have about $7k invested in my brokerage account, split 80% VTI and 20% VXUS following the Boglehead approach.

I’m temporarily working in Africa making very little and I don’t expect to have a very high-paying career in the future since the industry I’m in doesn’t usually pay well. My dad owns real estate in Dubai, so I’ve been tempted to invest there as well, but I’m not sure about the Dubai market.

I’ve been considering buying a property, sticking with index funds, or trying dividend investing. Dividends sound attractive because of the extra monthly income, but where I live they’re taxed at 30%, so I’m not sure it’s worth it. Another idea I’ve been thinking about is buying two houses using a mortgage rent them out. Again, not sure if Dubai is the right choice, maybe another country?

What I want is long-term financial growth and eventually some passive income, without putting all my eggs in one basket. I’d love to hear what people think would make the most sense for someone my age with this kind of lump sum.

Thanks!