Kuwait has secured the fifth spot among Gulf cities, ninth in the Arab world, and 139th globally in Mercer’s latest Quality of Life ranking for expatriates. The report evaluates 450 cities worldwide, considering factors such as infrastructure, healthcare, political stability, and cultural vibrancy.
Dubai emerged as the top city in the Middle East, followed by Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Muscat. Globally, Zurich, Switzerland, was ranked the best city for expatriates due to its excellent public services, safety, and sustainability.
Detailed Insights:
Gulf and Arab World Rankings:
Kuwait City:
Ranked 5th in the Gulf and 9th in the Arab world, reflecting steady improvement in infrastructure and expatriate facilities.
Top Gulf Cities:
Dubai: A global leader, praised for its infrastructure, cultural diversity, and safety.
Abu Dhabi: Renowned for its quality healthcare and vibrant expat community.
Doha: Strong infrastructure and a burgeoning cultural scene contributed to its rank.
Muscat: Noted for its tranquility and expat-friendly lifestyle.
Other Arab Cities:
Casablanca and Rabat in Morocco, Tunis in Tunisia, and Amman in Jordan were among the cities ranked higher in the Arab world.
Global Context:
Top Global Cities:
Zurich, Vienna, and Geneva dominate the list, excelling in safety, public services, and sustainability. European cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam also stand out for their infrastructure and liveability.
Worst Global Cities:
Khartoum, Baghdad, and Bangui rank lowest due to ongoing political instability, poor infrastructure, and security concerns.
What Influences the Rankings?
Mercer evaluated cities on:
Political stability
Healthcare quality
Education access
Entertainment and cultural activities
Air quality and sustainability
Housing affordability
Traffic and public transportation
Expert Insight:
Yvonne Traber, Mercer’s global head of mobility, highlighted the growing importance of destinations offering high-quality living at reasonable costs, especially in the era of digital nomads and flexible work environments.
This ranking serves as a guide for expatriates and organizations planning relocations, helping balance investment and lifestyle choices.
