The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been ranked among the top 10 countries in the world for expatriates to live and work in 2024. The country has taken the top spot in expat essentials such as no bureaucratic hurdles, red tapism, and complicated immigration laws, according to a study released by InterNations. The UAE shines in areas such as language and administration topics, with expats finding it easy to get by without the need to learn Arabic.
In an effort to improve customer service, the UAE has been actively working to remove red tape from the public sector. The “Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme” announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum aims to eliminate 2,000 procedures within a year and re-engineer hundreds of government services. These initiatives have contributed to the UAE’s favorable ranking for expats.
Expats in the UAE have seen their careers improve significantly, with 76% stating that moving to the UAE has enhanced their career prospects. This percentage is the highest worldwide and well above the global average. While finding accommodation is relatively easy in the UAE, affordability remains a challenge, especially with rising rental prices over the past few years.
The UAE has been ranked as the third best country for quality of life among 53 nations worldwide. Factors contributing to this high ranking include the government’s environmental policies, infrastructure for cars, and political stability. Additionally, the UAE has been praised for its safety and security, with expats feeling safe, especially as women, even when out at night.
When it comes to transportation, the UAE has a strong infrastructure for cars, with 91% of expats rating it positively. Public transportation options have also seen improvements, with increased satisfaction in affordability and availability compared to previous years. Leisure activities, culinary variety, and culture are other aspects where the UAE ranks high, offering expats a well-rounded living experience.
In the overall ranking, the UAE is joined by countries like Panama, Mexico, Indonesia, and Spain in the top 10. On the other hand, countries like Kuwait, Turkiye, and Finland ranked poorly according to expats in the InterNations survey. Overall, the UAE continues to attract expatriates with its favorable working conditions, quality of life, and safety standards, making it an ideal destination for those looking to live and work abroad.
