Ras Al Khaimah recognized as top expat-friendly city

Ras Al Khaimah, one of the United Arab Emirates’ most dynamic emirates, has been named the world’s number one city for expatriates in the Expat Essentials Index. 

This recognition comes as part of the 2024 Expat Insider Report by InterNations, the largest global expatriate network. The Index evaluated 53 cities worldwide based on key factors that contribute to an expatriate-friendly environment.

The Expat Essentials Index ranks cities based on four categories: Admin: Ease of obtaining visas, managing local bureaucracy, and opening bank accounts, Housing: Affordability and accessibility of accommodation, Digital Life: Availability of high-speed internet and government services online and Language: How easily expatriates can integrate without speaking the local language.

Ras Al Khaimah excelled in all these areas, setting a global benchmark for expatriate livability. The city particularly stood out in housing, where 72% of respondents reported finding it easy to secure housing, compared to the global average of 45%. Similarly, 69% of expatriates faced no significant issues with local bureaucracy or language barriers, a stark contrast to the global average of 29%.

The achievement reflects the strategic vision of Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, who has prioritized creating a thriving, inclusive, and welcoming environment for expatriates. This aligns with the emirate’s goals to enhance its infrastructure, business climate, and overall quality of life.

InterNations, which includes a global community of over 5.4 million members in 420 cities and 166 countries, highlighted Ras Al Khaimah as a model for expatriate-friendly living. With world-class infrastructure, a welcoming community, and a strategic focus on livability, the emirate continues to attract talent and investment from around the world.