Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a rapidly growing city known for its financial strength, innovative developments, and cultural prominence.
But how does Abu Dhabi perform in terms of image, reputation, influence, business attractiveness, liveability, and sustainability, according to leading rankings and indices?
Let’s take a closer look at:
- Abu Dhabi’s economic competitiveness and financial performance
- Its city brand strength and global reputation
- How appealing it is to live, work, and study
Economic Competitiveness
The Global Financial Centres Index 35 ranks Abu Dhabi 37th, a slight drop of two positions. Its Fintech ranking stands at 41st, down by three places.
In 2thinknow’s Innovation Cities Index 2022-2023, the city ranks 75th, with a notable improvement of 20 positions.
City Brand Strength and Reputation
According to Brand Finance’s City Index 2023, Abu Dhabi ranks 28th.
The 2024 World’s Best Cities Report by Resonance ranks Abu Dhabi 25th overall. It leads in Prosperity (1st), but scores lower in Livability (236th) and Lovability (84th).
In the Global Cities Index 2023, it ranks 66th, up 10 positions, while its Global Cities Outlook dropped 18 places, to 27th.
How Attractive for Talent, Visitors, Locals?
The Mercer Quality of Living City Ranking places Abu Dhabi 84th, while the Mercer Cost of Living Ranking ranks it 43rd, up by 18 positions.
In the Numbeo City Quality of Living Index, it ranks 26th, and 137th in the the same firm’s Cost of Living Index.
Spotahome’s Best Urban Cities for Digital Nomads ranks it 51st overall, with comparatively stronger performances in areas like Migrant Acceptance and Quality of Coworking Spaces, but lower in Internet Speed and Cost of Beer.
In 2024, the Times Higher Education ranking ranks Abu Dhabi University in the 251-300 bracket. Meanwhile, the QS World University ranking positions Abu Dhabi University 501st overall.
Urban Sustainability
Abu Dhabi ranks 74th in the Arcadis Sustainable Cities Index, performing average in Planet (55th), but has room for improvement in the areas People (74th) and Profit (79th).
In the IESE Cities in Motion Index 2024, it is ranked 116th, with notable strengths in Technology (3rd), followed by Economy (54th). The index attests its largest challenges in Human Capital (162nd) and Environment (176th).
Last updated in September 2024. Explore more city profiles here.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended to provide a general overview of Abu Dhabi’s economic and cultural landscape and facilitate comparison over time. While we strive for accuracy and completeness, we are not responsible for any typographical errors or inaccuracies. The data is provided ‘as is’ without warranty of any kind. Users should verify any information before relying on it for decision-making purposes.
