Ras Al Khaimah recently secured the world’s top spot out of 53 cities in the “Expat Essentials Index”, conducted by InterNations as part of their 2024 Expat Insider report. In addition to leading the Expat Essentials Index, Ras Al Khaimah ranked second globally in the Working Abroad Index and fifth for Ease of Settling In.
The international recognition highlights Ras Al Khaimah’s commitment to creating an exceptional living and working environment for its diverse and growing expat community, in line with the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.
“This achievement reflects our dedication to creating a safe, welcoming and thriving community that attracts individuals from all around the world. Ras Al Khaimah’s unique blend of modern infrastructure, spectacular natural environment, rich history and culture, and thriving business and tourism landscapes contribute to its reputation as a leading global destination for expatriates wishing to live and work, establish or manage businesses here,” stated Heba Fatani, director-general of Ras Al Khaimah Government Media Office (RAKGMO).
72 percent find it easy to secure housing
Earning the top ranking in the InterNations 2024 Expat Essentials Index, Ras Al Khaimah is a city where almost three in four respondents (72 percent) find it easy to secure housing, compared to just 45 percent globally. Regarding the housing market, local bureaucracy, and the language barrier prior to relocating, 69 percent of respondents did not believe there to be any concerns in these matters in Ras Al Khaimah, compared to 29 percent globally.
The index is based on four categories:
- Admin: How easy it is to get a visa, deal with local bureaucracy, and open a bank account.
- Housing: Affordability of housing, ease of finding accommodation.
- Digital life: Availability of government services online, high-speed internet.
- Language: How easy it is to integrate without speaking the local language.
InterNations’s global expat community includes more than 5.4 million members in 420 cities and 166 countries.
“Earning the top ranking in this global survey is a testament to the vibrant community spirit and the collaborative efforts of both public and private sectors to enhance Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal, not only as a premier international business hub, but as a place where individuals and families truly feel at home, thrive and belong. Hearing that those who chose to move to Ras Al Khaimah genuinely feel at home is the greatest affirmation of its welcoming nature and beauty. We are continually innovating to meet the evolving needs of our dynamic and growing communities,” added Rouba Zeidan, RAKGMO’s head of special projects.
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Top 10 cities on the Expat Essentials Index
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Abu Dhabi
- Dubai
- Panama City
- Muscat
- Jeddah
- Alicante
- Doha
- Mexico City
- Riyadh
