Which are the best countries to live in the world in 2026? According to Nomad Capitalist's 2026 Lifestyle Index, the UAE is one of them - ranking 3rd out of 63 destinations worldwide.
The UAE scored 73.15 out of 100, just behind Monaco (73.89) and Andorra (73.68). Only 0.74 points separate the top three, putting the UAE right at the top of the list - and making it the highest-ranked country in the Middle East.
Why the UAE ranks so high
The index scores each country on five equally weighted factors: tax, residence and access, quality of life and infrastructure, safety and freedom, and nature and climate.
The UAE's biggest strength is tax, where it ranked 1st in the world with a score of 96 - thanks largely to zero personal income tax. It placed 5th for quality of life and infrastructure, reflecting its modern roads, airports, healthcare, and services. It came 7th for residence and access, with long-term options such as the 10-year Golden Visa and strong global flight connections.
Its lowest score was for nature and climate, where it ranked 16th, mainly because of the very hot summers. Even so, the mild winter months are among the most pleasant anywhere.
Top 10 famous landmarks and buildings in Dubai
Part of what makes Dubai one of the best places to live is the city itself. Its famous landmarks are not just tourist places - they are part of everyday life for residents.
1. Burj Khalifa - The most famous building in Dubai and the tallest building in the world, rising 828 metres above Downtown Dubai. Its observation decks offer unbeatable views of the city.
2. Burj Al Arab - Shaped like a sail and standing on its own island off Jumeirah Beach, the Burj Al Arab is one of the most recognisable hotels on the planet.
3. Museum of the Future - Opened in 2022, this torus-shaped building on Sheikh Zayed Road is covered in Arabic calligraphy and explores technology, science and the world of tomorrow.
4. Dubai Frame - A 150-metre picture frame in Zabeel Park that "frames" old Dubai on one side and the modern skyline on the other, with a glass-floored bridge at the top.
5. Palm Jumeirah - The world-famous palm-shaped island, home to luxury villas, beach clubs and hotels including Atlantis.
6. The Dubai Mall - One of the largest shopping centres in the world, with an aquarium, an ice rink and hundreds of stores right next to Burj Khalifa.
7. The Dubai Fountain - The choreographed fountain show on Burj Lake is one of the most popular free attractions in the city.
8. Dubai Opera - A dhow-shaped performing arts venue in Downtown, hosting concerts, ballet and theatre.
9. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood - Narrow lanes, wind towers and museums that show what Dubai looked like before the skyscrapers.
10. Dubai Creek and the Souks - Take an abra across the creek to the Gold and Spice Souks, the heart of old Dubai's trading history.
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What it means for living and investing in Dubai
A top-three global ranking does more than make headlines. It draws new residents, professionals and investors to the UAE every year - and they all need somewhere to live.
Homes close to Dubai’s famous landmarks are among the most sought-after in the city. Downtown Dubai, beside Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah, with its beachfront living, are favourites with both residents and holiday-home guests. Tourists who come to see the Burj Al Arab, the Museum of the Future or the Dubai Frame also keep short-term rental demand strong.
With zero personal income tax, long-term residency options and world-class infrastructure, the UAE gives buyers a strong case for making Dubai their home or their next investment. From property search to mortgages and Golden Visa support, Azora Property’s services cover every step of buying in Dubai.