UAE Among Top 10 in Best Expat Destinations for 2024

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has solidified its position as a global hub for expatriates, ranking as the 10th best country for expats to live and work in 2024, according to the Expat Insider 2024 report by InterNations. This ranking underscores the UAE's commitment to providing its international residents with a high quality of life and abundant professional opportunities.

InterNations' survey gathered responses from over 12,000 individuals across 174 nations and territories and evaluated key aspects of expatriate life. This included quality of life, ease of settling in, opportunities to work abroad, personal finance, and essential expatriate services. Panama led the global ranking, followed by Mexico, Indonesia, Spain, and Colombia.

UAE Excels in Multiple Categories

The UAE's impressive overall ranking is supported by its outstanding performance in several crucial areas:

1. Quality of life: The country secured the 3rd position globally in the Overall Quality of Life category. Expatriates praised the country's environmental policies, infrastructure, and political stability.

2. Expat essentials: The UAE claimed the top spot in the Essential Expat Services category. Respondents highlighted the ease of living without knowing the local language and the excellent online availability of various administrative services.

3. Working abroad: Ranking 6th in the Working Abroad Opportunities category, the UAE was praised for its robust job market and career advancement prospects. 76% of respondents reported that moving to the UAE significantly improved their career prospects. The country also received positive reviews for its economic outlook, overall job market, work culture, and employee satisfaction levels.

Progressive Visa Reforms Attracting Global Talent

The UAE's high ranking can be attributed in part to its recent reforms aimed at attracting and retaining international talent:

• Golden Visa: A 10-year residency permit offered to investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. This long-term visa provides greater stability and certainty for expats, allowing them to establish their lives and careers in the UAE firmly.

•  Green Visa: A 5-year residency permit for skilled employees, without the need for an employer sponsor. This gives skilled expats more flexibility and independence, as they are not tied to a specific employer.

•  Digital Nomad Visa: A 1-year residency permit catering to remote workers across various industries. By welcoming remote workers, the UAE is tapping into a new segment of global talent that can contribute to its economy without being physically tied to a traditional workplace.

•  Retirement Visa: A 5-year residency permit for expats over the age of 55.  This provides an incentive for skilled, experienced professionals to retire in the UAE, allowing the country to benefit from their expertise and networks.

See more: Getting a visa for the United Arab Emirates

These initiatives showcase the UAE's commitment to building a diverse and thriving expat community.

Healthcare Considerations for Expats in Dubai

Individuals and families planning a move to the UAE should be aware that healthcare costs can be significant, particularly for non-residents without insurance. If you are an expat living in Dubai, comprehensive health coverage should be a priority.

Many companies in the UAE offer health insurance as part of their employee benefits package. However, these plans may not always cover dependents or might have limitations on coverage.