Arab cities ranked among world’s top destinations for expats in 2024
Riyadh rises 10 places in global expat index, named one of the year’s ‘biggest winners’
LONDON, United Kingdom (MNTV) — The UAE city of Ras Al-Khaimah and Oman’s Muscat have been ranked among the world’s top 10 most welcoming destinations for expatriates, according to the newly released 2024 Ease of Settling In Index by InterNations.
The index, published by the global expat network with 5.6 million members, evaluated 53 cities worldwide based on three subcategories: culture and welcome, local friendliness, and the ease of making friends.
Ras Al-Khaimah secured fifth place, while Muscat ranked tenth overall.
Other regional cities also featured prominently. Dubai ranked 11th, Riyadh 12th, Abu Dhabi 14th, and Doha 15th, reflecting a broader trend of growing expat satisfaction across the Gulf.
The report noted that both Ras Al-Khaimah and Muscat received high marks for their welcoming atmospheres and cultural accessibility, with expats reporting ease in adjusting to local norms and strong levels of general friendliness.
Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, was highlighted as one of “the biggest winners in 2024,” leaping 10 spots from the previous year.
Its most significant improvement came in the culture and welcome category, where it moved up from 30th in 2023 to 14th.
The index reflects shifting expat preferences and highlights the Gulf region’s expanding reputation as a favorable environment for foreign professionals and families alike.