Dubai Tops Middle East and North Africa in 2024 Global City Index Ranking

Photo : Dubai government media office

Dubai has once again asserted its status as a leading global hub, being ranked the top city in the Middle East and Africa in the recently released ‘Global City Index 2024’ by Brand Finance. This prestigious report evaluates the world’s most prominent cities, with Dubai now not only maintaining its regional dominance for the second consecutive year but also climbing four positions to secure fifth place globally.

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Achieving an impressive score of 86 out of 100, Dubai surpassed global giants including Singapore, Los Angeles, Sydney, San Francisco, and Amsterdam, which ranked sixth to tenth respectively. This leap reflects Dubai’s exceptional performance across all key indicators, underscoring the city’s economic leadership in the Middle East and Africa.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, attributed this success to the foresight and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that Dubai’s steady rise in global rankings is a testament to its strategic framework, embodied in the Dubai Plan 2030. He added that the city’s focus on comprehensive economic and social agendas for the next decade continues to drive its transformation into a global powerhouse.

Sheikh Hamdan also expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed to Dubai’s success, praising the collaborative efforts that have fueled this accomplishment. He noted that such recognition not only validates Dubai’s achievements but also inspires further innovation and dedication among the teams responsible for the city’s progress. “We value every effort that has helped secure Dubai’s position as the top city in the Middle East and North Africa for the second consecutive year,” he said. “We also celebrate its rise into the ranks of the top five cities globally in a prominent international report that compares 100 leading city brands worldwide.”

The report, which considers public perception on quality of life, work opportunities, investment, education, and retirement, showcases Dubai’s growing allure. The city now ranks as the world’s most desired destination for investment and is viewed as a leader in potential for future growth. This reputation for opportunity and aspiration has made Dubai a city of global appeal.

This year’s Index highlights Dubai’s meteoric rise in several areas. The city now ranks first globally in Reputation, a jump from seventh place in 2023, outpacing other leading cities such as Sydney and London. Dubai has also made substantial progress in its appeal as a destination for both local work and remote work, moving from 24th to 4th in these categories. Furthermore, Dubai has surpassed established global cities in other key metrics, now standing as the second-best city of global significance, a position that places it above London, one of the traditional leaders in this category.

Dubai’s robust and resilient economy, now ranked second globally, is a major contributor to its strong standing. This economic strength is driven by the city’s strategic position as a key international trade hub, bolstered by its top-tier logistics infrastructure and its role as a bridge between the East and the West. Dubai’s blend of location, stability, and innovation creates a magnet for residents, businesses, and investors from around the world.

In addition to its economic strengths, Dubai has cultivated a rich environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. Initiatives such as the Dubai Future Foundation have propelled the city to first place for future growth potential, further reinforcing its status as a global center for startups and forward-looking businesses. The city’s attractive corporate taxation policies, ranked third globally, enhance Dubai’s reputation as a premier destination for corporate investment and expansion.

Dubai’s focus on education has not gone unnoticed. The city has achieved top rankings in indices measuring the quality of both private and publicly funded schools, which solidifies its commitment to providing a high-quality educational environment. This educational strength is complemented by Dubai’s top marks in the areas of local and international connectivity and the ease of obtaining a visa, making it an accessible and attractive destination for professionals and families alike.

Within the Middle East and North Africa region, Dubai has emerged as a clear leader, excelling in nearly every performance category measured by the Index. The city leads across indicators such as work preference, investment appeal, quality of life, retirement options, education, and tourism, reinforcing its standing as a vibrant and multifaceted city.

Dubai’s remarkable performance in the Global City Index 2024 is not merely a reflection of its past accomplishments; it’s a statement of the city’s intent to lead in the years to come. Through strategic initiatives, a strong economic foundation, and a commitment to growth, Dubai continues to capture global admiration and solidify its role as a city of the future.