Abu Dhabi Ranks Among World's Best Cities for Safety, Happiness, and Quality of Life in 2025
Abu Dhabi has once again affirmed its status as a global leader in quality of life, safety, and resident happiness, according to the 2024 Quality of Life Survey conducted by the Department of Community Development (DCD). With participation from over 100,000 residents representing 190 nationalities, the survey assessed 14 core indicators of social wellbeing.
Safety and Happiness on the Rise
An outstanding 93.6% of Abu Dhabi residents feel safe walking alone at night, solidifying the emirate’s title as the world’s safest city in 2025. The Happiness Index also rose to 7.74 out of 10, up from 7.63 in the previous cycle. These figures reflect the city's continued efforts to prioritize public safety, community happiness, and social development.
Comprehensive Wellbeing Assessment
The survey covered critical life dimensions including:
- Housing
- Job opportunities and income
- Family wealth
- Work-life balance
- Health
- Education and skills
- Personal safety
- Social relationships
- Governance and civic engagement
- Environmental quality
- Social cohesion
- Community services
- Digital wellbeing
- Overall quality of life
Results show that 75.6% of residents enjoy a strong social support network, underlining the emirate’s emphasis on community cohesion, particularly during the UAE Year of Community.
High Employment and Community Participation
Abu Dhabi’s employment rates surpassed OECD averages, attracting skilled professionals from around the world and enhancing its global economic competitiveness. Additionally, the volunteering rate reached 34.3%, indicating a high level of civic engagement and a strong sense of social responsibility among residents.
Leadership Insights and Policy Commitment
Shaikha Alhosani, Executive Director of the Social Monitoring and Innovation Sector at DCD, highlighted that the positive outcomes are a direct result of strategic, people-centered governance. “These results reflect our commitment to designing innovative policies that prioritize individual wellbeing,” she stated.
She emphasized that Abu Dhabi’s success in safety, happiness, and life expectancy stems from coordinated efforts across public and private sectors. These outcomes reinforce the emirate’s strategy for promoting social, health, and economic development in an inclusive and sustainable way.
Real-Life Impact and Community Hubs
During the UAE Year of Community, the government continues to translate public feedback into action. One such example is the Nabdh Al Falah Community Hub, developed as a platform for social interaction, inclusive programming, and public engagement. It represents the government’s goal to turn “Voice of the Community into reality.”
Digital Wellbeing and Balanced Growth
The emirate’s push toward digital transformation has improved access to digital services and enhanced digital wellbeing. However, the survey also indicated rising concerns about the psychological impacts of constant connectivity, prompting calls for policies that safeguard mental health while encouraging meaningful social interactions in the digital era.
Work-Life Balance Challenges
While Abu Dhabi performs well in multiple areas, the work-life balance indicator revealed that residents still face longer working hours compared to global standards. The government acknowledges this gap and is actively exploring solutions to improve personal-professional life balance, ensuring long-term quality of life improvements.
Forward-Looking Policies for Sustainable Livelihoods
The Department of Community Development uses the survey results as a key instrument for shaping responsive, data-driven social and economic policies. By collaborating with stakeholders across sectors, the department is committed to building a resilient, cohesive, and inclusive community.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming sixth cycle of the Quality of Life Survey to help guide future policies. Public input plays a crucial role in shaping a better and more fulfilling life for all who call Abu Dhabi home.
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