The United Arab Emirates has strengthened its global standing after securing second place worldwide among the best destinations to live, according to the latest report by Henley & Partners, a leading firm specializing in global residence and citizenship programs. The achievement reflects the country’s rapid progress in enhancing quality of life, economic competitiveness, and overall stability.

In the 2026 Global Residence Program Index, the UAE climbed from fifth place to share the second position alongside Italy and Switzerland, while Greece claimed the top spot. The ranking is based on a comprehensive evaluation of key factors, including international reputation, quality of life, tax systems, and the level of global mobility offered through visa-free or visa-on-arrival access.

The UAE’s strong performance is driven by a combination of attractive advantages. High levels of safety and security, the absence of personal income tax, and a dynamic business environment offering promising opportunities for professionals and entrepreneurs all contribute to its appeal. In addition, world-class infrastructure and advanced digital government services further enhance the country’s position as a preferred destination for living and working.

According to the report, the UAE’s rapid rise signals a broader shift in global competitiveness. Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Chairman of Henley & Partners, noted that this year’s results mark an important turning point, as Europe’s long-standing dominance in residence programs begins to face increasing competition from forward-thinking nations such as the UAE and Singapore. These countries have adopted strategic, transparent, and investor-friendly policies to attract international capital and talent.

The UAE achieved outstanding scores in the quality of life category, which measures factors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and overall social stability. It also topped the tax efficiency indicator alongside Monaco, reinforcing its reputation as a highly attractive destination for high-net-worth individuals and global investors seeking financial stability and favorable tax structures.

The 2026 ranking also introduced new entrants to the broader index, including the Maldives and Uruguay, reflecting growing global competition in the residence-by-investment sector.

The annual assessment reviews 40 leading residence programs out of more than 100 worldwide. Evaluations are conducted by a panel of experts in migration, economics, and academia, lending significant credibility to the findings within international investment circles.