The capital has topped The Economist Intelligence Unit's 2026 liveability rankings
If you needed another reason to love living in Abu Dhabi, here it is.
The UAE capital has officially been named the best city to live in the Middle East for 2026, according to the latest Global Liveability Index published by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
The annual report assesses 173 cities around the world, measuring how comfortable they are to live and work in.
While cities across the globe compete for the top spots, Abu Dhabi has once again cemented its reputation as the region’s leading destination for quality of life.
The rankings are based on five key areas: healthcare, education, infrastructure, stability, and culture and environment.
These factors provide an overall picture of what everyday life is like for residents and are widely used by international organisations to assess living standards for expatriates and professionals relocating overseas.
Abu Dhabi’s strong performance reflects the qualities that residents have long praised.
From world-class hospitals and schools to modern transport links, clean streets and a strong focus on safety, the emirate continues to invest in creating a city where people can live, work and raise families with confidence.
It’s not the first time Abu Dhabi has received international recognition. The capital has built an impressive reputation over recent years for its high levels of safety, outstanding public services and growing cultural scene.
Attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Cultural District and Yas Island continue to attract millions of visitors each year, while new developments and community projects have further enhanced the city’s appeal.
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The latest accolade also follows another milestone for the emirate after Al Ain was officially named the Arab Tourism Capital 2026, shining a spotlight on the wider emirate’s rich heritage, natural landscapes and tourism offering.
For residents, the ranking is a welcome reminder of what makes Abu Dhabi such a desirable place to call home.
Whether it’s the excellent healthcare system, high-quality education, reliable infrastructure or the balance between modern city living and family-friendly communities, the capital continues to stand out as one of the region’s most attractive places to live.
As Abu Dhabi continues to evolve, with major investments in culture, tourism, sustainability and innovation, the city is not only attracting visitors from around the world but also strengthening its position as one of the best places in the Middle East to build a life.
For further information, visit economist.com
