Dubai and Abu Dhabi Named Most ‘Liveable Cities’ in Middle East and Africa
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been recognized as the top liveable cities in the Middle East and Africa, according to the Global Liveability Index by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) for 2024. Abu Dhabi secured the top position, with Dubai closely following in second place. Both cities have shown remarkable progress in healthcare and education, contributing to their high rankings.
Safety and Healthcare Excellence
In terms of safety, Abu Dhabi ranks first globally on the Safety Index with an impressive score of 88.2 points, while Dubai holds the fifth spot. The Dubai Health Authority reported that the emirate had 5,020 licensed and operational healthcare facilities, supported by 13,370 licensed doctors as of the first quarter of 2024. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi had 3,323 healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, with a total of 12,922 licensed doctors by the end of 2022.
Education and Infrastructure Developments
In education, Abu Dhabi boasts 459 schools for the 2023-2024 academic year, whereas Dubai has 220 private schools. The continued investment in education and infrastructure is pivotal in maintaining and improving the quality of life in both cities.
GCC’s Growing Influence
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Kuwait City, Doha, and Bahrain, also featured prominently in the regional rankings, underscoring their stability and rising global influence. The GCC’s role as an economic powerhouse continues to attract international talent and investment, further boosting its cities’ liveability.
Future Prospects
Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s advancements in liveability reflect their commitment to enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. Their ongoing improvements in healthcare, education, and safety highlight their ambition to be leading global urban centers. As these cities continue to evolve, they are poised to play increasingly significant roles in shaping the future of global urban living.
Reference: Arabian Business
