UAE residents witness highest improvement in quality of life

The UAE residents' quality of life witnessed one of the highest improvements last year and the best in the region, thanks to the world-class infrastructure, top-quality restaurants as well as recreational and entertainment facilities, according to a latest report released on Monday.
The UAE has witnessed the biggest increase in living standards - more than 12 per cent - in the region, following concerted efforts over the past few decades to continuously improve infrastructure such as airports, public transport, etc as well as recreational and entertainment facilities. Many international companies have set up their regional headquarters here, causing an influx of expatriates. These cities have also developed their tourism infrastructure and offerings, said David Anderson, president, Mercer's Growth Markets Region.
According to Mercer's Quality of Living 2018 index, quality of life improved 12.2 per cent in Dubai, 12.1 per cent in Abu Dhabi, 6.1 per cent in Amman, 5.4 per cent in Kuwait City and 2 per cent in Manama in the Middle East region.
Dubai topped in the region and also maintained its 74th global rating worldwide in Mercer's 2018 ranking, closely followed by Abu Dhabi (77), an increase of two points. For city sanitation, an important factor in cities' attractiveness, both the emirates tied at 65th ranking. Regionally, Muscat (70), Manama (93) and Kuwait City (99) made it to the top 100 list.
"With substantial investments in city infrastructure on the one hand, and the need to attract foreign investment on the other, competition for talent, industry and capital among these cities is formidable. International recognition as one of the best cities in which to live, work and retire can accelerate profitable business growth and societal progress," Anderson said.
Romika Fazeli, founder and managing director of Emirates World Club, an elite-networking club, said Dubai is a multi-cultural city with a unique life style. It combines culture, tradition with excellent business opportunities.
"The majority of the population here care about their well-being, about their life style so does the city serve us. You have the best restaurants, clubs, supermarkets 24 hours open including laundry and valet parking services. Dubai is a place which makes your life more comfortable. I think another aspect is that most of the people here feel at home. The country is so welcoming towards all the nationalities that it makes you feel home and welcome," Fazeli said, adding that people don't just dream in Dubai; they see their dreams coming true through dedication and talent and this is true happiness, which is the key element to have a qualitative professional and personal life.
Naveen Sharma, chairman, The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (Dubai Chapter), attributes high ranking for Dubai in terms of quality of life to world-class restaurants, skyscrapers, 5-star hotels, supermarkets, mode of entertainment available etc. "Apart from this, tourism also plays a very important role in making Dubai what it is. From luxurious lifestyle to pocket friendly place - Dubai always has something to offer to everyone," Sharma said.
Globally, Vienna maintained its top ranking for the 9th consecutive year, followed by Zurich, Auckland, Munich, Vancouver, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Geneva, Copenhagen and Basel in the top 10 list.
Among other global cities, Toronto was ranked 16th, Singapore 25th, San Francisco 30th, Paris 39th, London 41st, New York 45th, Washington DC 48th, Tokyo 50th, Seoul 79th, Kuala Lumpur 85th and others. - waheedabbas@khaleejtimes.com