Quality of Living Survey by Mercer places the emirate first among cities in the Middle East and Africa and 74th globally out of 230 cities covered.
Dubai — Among its many accolades, Dubai can claim – for the third year running – to have the highest quality of living in the region, according to a new report by an international human resources consultancy.
The “Quality of Living Survey” by Mercer, places Dubai first among cities in the Middle East and Africa and in 74th place globally out of 230 cities covered in the rankings.
The survey took into account a variety of factors, including the city’s social and political environment, health and public services, natural environment and recreational activities.
Nuno Gomes, information solutions Middle East leader at Mercer, said such factors must be taken into account both by employers and employees when contemplating international postings.
“In order for multinational companies to ensure their expatriates are compensated appropriately and an adequate hardship allowance is included in compensation packages, they must be aware of current events and local circumstances,” he said.
“Factors such as internal stability, law enforcement effectiveness, crime levels and medical facilities are important to consider when deciding on an international assignment, and the impact on daily life that could be encountered by the expatriate in overseas placements,” Gomes added.
The region’s second spot went to Abu Dhabi, which came in 77th globally, followed by Muscat, Doha and Amman. The Austrian capital of Vienna came in first place overall for the second year in a row, followed by Zurich, Auckland, Munich and Vancouver.
Of the bottom 10 cities in the ranking, two – Sanaa and Baghdad – are in the Middle East. Many local residents say they are not surprised that Dubai can claim the title.
Puja Kapoor, 28, who moved to Dubai from Delhi five years ago, said she finds life here much easier than in her hometown.
“Quality of life is better in Dubai. Much, much better,” she said. “Public transport is hassle free and I like the diversity of the city’s population. Also, pollution is less.”
Most Middle Eastern cities have remained stable in the rankings over the years, but notable drops include Beirut, which fell eight places to 181 since 2014, and Cairo, which fell 9 places to 170.
“Forget Beirut,” said Bilal Shaaban, a Lebanese expat. “Dubai is definitely the highest in the region, since the country relies heavily on tourism and hospitality.”
“Dubai is consistently maintaining a heavy portfolio of residential and tourism related projects, which will only increase its appeal.”
Others, however, are not so convinced.
“On the surface, quality of life is comfortable here as there are so many choices on how to lead the ‘good’ life,” said American expat Danielle Maxwell. “But compared to life in the western world a majority of those choices lack quality and substance.”
