The UAE ranked second globally in the Quality of Life Index according to the “Expat Insider 2025” report, leading worldwide in safety and essential services, and excelling in healthcare, job opportunities, and culture, making it a preferred destination for living and working.

The UAE continued its progress in the Quality of Life Index, ranking second globally after Spain, confirming its status as a favored destination for expatriates, according to the “Expat Insider 2025” report issued by the InterNations network, which surveyed over 10,000 expatriates representing 172 nationalities across 46 countries worldwide.

The UAE ranked first globally in personal safety, with 87% of expatriates expressing satisfaction with political stability, a rate significantly higher than the global average of 56%.

The country topped the essential services index globally, reflecting its excellence in digital infrastructure and the ease of completing government transactions online. Expatriates noted the UAE’s well-organized and accessible housing and service systems, making relocation and living in the UAE a smooth experience compared to many other countries.

The UAE ranked third globally in healthcare quality and sixth in availability, despite higher costs placing it 25th in that aspect. Expatriates praised the wide variety of restaurants (83% satisfied) and cultural life (78%), while the UAE ranked 20th globally in the environment and climate index thanks to strong government support for environmental policies and availability of eco-friendly products. The UAE was seventh globally among the best destinations for expatriates to live and work.

The report is one of the most important global studies measuring foreign residents’ satisfaction with life in host countries, relying on the evaluation of 53 key factors including quality of life, ease of integration, economic environment, job opportunities, infrastructure, and essential services.

In terms of working abroad, the UAE ranked fifth globally due to diverse job opportunities and a stable economic environment. Expatriates described the labor market as open and offering professional development opportunities. The report also praises the work culture and work-life balance compared to other global destinations in Europe and North America, enhancing the country’s image as a prime destination for attracting talent.

The UAE ranked 17th globally in the general happiness index, reflecting expatriates’ satisfaction with quality of life and available services.

Global Rankings

Globally, Panama maintained first place on the list for the second consecutive year thanks to affordable living costs, ease of integration, and an attractive work environment, with 94% of expatriates there expressing happiness.

Colombia ranked second after jumping from fifth place in 2024, driven by lower living costs and ease of housing access despite some security challenges. Mexico ranked third globally, maintaining its top spot in the ease of integration index, with expatriates enjoying strong social networks and a welcoming atmosphere.

In Asia, China ranked sixth and Vietnam fifth, with strong performance in job opportunities and living costs, while Indonesia ranked eighth globally and Malaysia tenth, reflecting Asia’s rising popularity as an expatriate destination.

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