Abu Dhabi named safest city in the world for eighth consecutive year

Abu Dhabi has once again been crowned the safest city in the world and the most liveable city in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, according to the latest Global Liveability Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) and Numbeo’s Global Rankings for 2024.

This marks the eighth consecutive year that the UAE’s capital has secured the top spot, solidifying its reputation as a global benchmark for safety and quality of life.

Front and entrance of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi. PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

The city achieved an impressive 88.2 points on Numbeo’s Safety Index, reflecting its exceptional efforts in ensuring the well-being of its residents. The city’s Crime Index score is a mere 11.8, indicating a remarkably low level of crime.

But Abu Dhabi’s accolades don’t end with safety. The city is also recognised for its superior healthcare and education systems, which contribute significantly to its liveability. With 3,323 healthcare facilities, including 67 hospitals and 1,068 pharmacies, and 12,922 licensed doctors, Abu Dhabi’s healthcare infrastructure is among the best in the world.

Emirates Palace. PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Abu Dhabi excels. The city boasts 459 schools across private, public, and mixed options for the 2023-2024 academic year, ensuring that its residents have access to high-quality education.

As Abu Dhabi leads the way in safety and liveability, other Gulf cities are also making strides. Kuwait City, Doha, and Bahrain are climbing the ranks, with Dubai not far behind. Dubai ranks second in liveability in the UAE and fifth globally for safety, further highlighting the region’s overall commitment to providing a secure and stable environment for its citizens.

Taipei is the only non-Gulf city to crack the top five in the global safety rankings, securing the fourth position.

Safety Index Rankings:

1. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - 88.2
2. Ajman, United Arab Emirates - 84.2
3. Doha, Qatar - 84.0
4. Taipei, Taiwan - 83.7
5. Dubai, United Arab Emirates - 83.6
6. Ras al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates - 82.9
7. Muscat, Oman - 80.6
8. The Hague (Den Haag), Netherlands - 79.7
9. Munich, Germany - 79.5
10. Trondheim, Norway - 79.4

Abu Dhabi’s continued dominance in these rankings underscores its success in fostering an environment where safety, stability, and top-tier services are priorities.

As the city continues to improve in key areas such as healthcare and education, it not only enhances its own liveability but also sets a benchmark for cities around the world.

Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. PHOTO WIKIMEDIA COMMONS