The United Arab Emirates has been ranked the fourth best country in the world for expatriates in the annual Expat Insider 2026 survey conducted by the global InterNations network. Panama, Mexico, and Thailand secured the top three positions, with the UAE achieving the highest ranking among Middle Eastern nations.

This result holds particular significance given regional tensions, as survey responses were collected between February 1 and March 31, covering part of the period following the start of the conflict between the United States and Iran. InterNations stated that these results reflect only a portion of the impact of regional conflicts on expatriates in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

First Place in Expat Essentials

The UAE ranked first among 31 destinations in the Expat Essentials index, which measures the ease of handling daily and administrative tasks for expatriates.

It also ranked first for ease of obtaining a visa and the ability to live without needing the local language. Eighty percent of respondents found obtaining a visa easy, compared to a global average of 55 percent.

Government digital services, cashless payments, high-speed internet, and banking were also highlighted as national strengths. Sixty-four percent of expatriates found it easy to find housing, compared to the global average of 44 percent, although rising rents remain a significant concern.

Safety and Quality of Life

The UAE ranked third globally in the Quality of Life index. Ninety-four percent of respondents rated personal safety positively, and 89 percent expressed satisfaction with political stability. The quality of healthcare services, road infrastructure, restaurants, leisure activities, and cultural attractions also received high scores.

Strong Career Opportunities, but High Costs

The UAE ranked third in the Working Abroad index and first in the career prospects category. Eighty percent of expatriates stated that moving to the UAE has improved their career opportunities.

However, work-life balance was a relative weakness, with the country ranking 24th in this category. Personal finance also ranked 18th, impacted by the high costs of housing, education, and healthcare.

Overall, 69 percent of expatriates were satisfied with life in the UAE. This result indicates that safety, career opportunities, infrastructure, and ease of living remain the country's most significant advantages for expatriates.