The UAE has jumped to the top ranks of destinations for expats seeking a smooth transition and a career boost, according to a new study by InterNations.
One of the biggest advantages for expats in the UAE is the lack of bureaucracy. The study ranked the UAE first in its “Expat Essentials” category, highlighting the ease of navigating everyday tasks. Unlike some countries, there’s no need to worry about excessive paperwork, complex immigration processes, or language barriers when living in the UAE. While Arabic is the official language, 80% of expats say getting by in English is perfectly manageable.
Career Growth and a Thriving Economy
The UAE’s booming economy is another major draw for expats. InterNations found that 76% of expats credit their move to the UAE with improving their careers – the highest percentage globally. The study also ranked the UAE first for the state of its economy and fourth for its local job market.
Finding Your Place: Accommodation and Affordability
While 64% of expats in the UAE find it easy to secure accommodation, rising rental prices are a growing concern. Only 37% of expats are satisfied with housing costs, compared to the global average of 34%.
Overall Quality of Life: Safety, Security, and Beyond
Despite the housing affordability challenge, the UAE still ranks highly in overall quality of life, coming in third best globally according to InterNations. This strong showing is driven by factors like:
- Safety and Security: The UAE boasts exceptional safety ratings, with 86% of expats feeling politically secure – significantly higher than the global average.
- Environmental Policies: Nearly 90% of expats approve of the UAE government’s environmental initiatives.
- Infrastructure: The UAE’s infrastructure for cars receives high marks, with a well-developed public transportation system also showing improvement in affordability and accessibility.
- Leisure and Lifestyle: Expats enjoy a good variety of cuisine (8th place) and a vibrant nightlife scene (3rd place).
The Top 10 and Beyond
The UAE joins Panama, Mexico, Indonesia, and Spain in the top five of the InterNations 2024 ranking. For those considering a move abroad, the UAE offers a compelling combination of a thriving job market, a streamlined expat experience, and a high quality of life.
