Ras Al Khaima: Ras Al Khaimah has claimed the prestigious title of the world’s number one city for expatriates in the “Expat Essentials Index” from the 2024 Expat Insider report by InterNations, the largest global expat network. The Expat Essentials Index, which evaluated 53 cities worldwide, considered critical aspects of expat life, including ease of administrative processes, housing affordability, digital infrastructure, and language integration.
This milestone highlights the Emirate’s commitment to providing an exceptional living and working environment, reflecting the strategic vision of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.
A Global Leader in expat comfort
Ras Al Khaimah excelled in all four categories of the Index:
- Admin: Simplified visa processes, efficient local bureaucracy, and easy banking.
- Housing: High affordability and accessibility to quality accommodation.
- Digital Life: Advanced online services and reliable high-speed internet.
- Language: Ease of integration for non-Arabic speakers.
Nearly 72% of surveyed expats found securing housing in Ras Al Khaimah straightforward, compared to a global average of 45%. Similarly, 69% reported no major concerns about local bureaucracy or language barriers, starkly higher than the global benchmark of 29%. Beyond leading the Expat Essentials Index, Ras Al Khaimah ranked second globally in the Working Abroad Index and fifth for Ease of Settling In.
Heba Fatani, Director-General of the Ras Al Khaimah Government Media Office (RAKGMO), stated that, “This recognition mirrors our efforts in fostering a welcoming and dynamic community that attracts someone from around the globe. With modern infrastructure, a vibrant business environment, and a breathtaking natural landscape, Ras Al Khaimah is an unmatched destination for expats striving to live and thrive.”
The recently launched Heart of RAK, a comprehensive digital platform by RAKGMO, further highlights the Emirate’s drive to enhance expat experiences. Rouba Zeidan, Head of Special Projects at RAKGMO, highlighted the collaborative effort behind this success, stating that, “Ras Al Khaimah’s top ranking is a testament to the unity of public and private sectors in creating a city where expats not only work but also truly feel at home.”
The InterNations Expat Insider report is among the most comprehensive surveys of expat experiences, gathering understandings from over 5.4 million members across 420 cities and 166 countries. Ras Al Khaimah’s top performance in the 2024 report cements its reputation as a leading global destination for expatriates.