Beating the US and Australia: How Qatar Climbed to 12th Globally for Quality of Life

Qatar has reached an important milestone internationally, after rising from 22nd position last year to 12th in the 23rd edition of The Global Database for Quality of Life from the comparative index published by foreign financial firm, Numbeo. The ranking indicates that the country has consistently invested in infrastructure, health, safety and economic activities. The achievement levels brought Qatar out ahead of some of the traditional top achievers such as the United States, Australia, Sweden and New Zealand.

The findings also further solidify Qatar’s status as one of the world’s most attractive places to live, work, begin a business or invest internationally.

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Qatar Climbs Six Places in the Global Rankings

Overall, Qatar’s Quality of Life Index improved by 188.6 to 182.7, 6 ranks higher than its previous assessment, figures highlighted by the National Planning Council of Qatar.

The improvement also put Qatar on the map at number two in the region of Asia and among the countries in the Gulf, and shows how long-term economic planning and ongoing public investment are changing everyday life.

What Makes Qatar One of the World’s Best Places to Live?

The Numbeo Quality of Life Index ranks countries based on various indicators that clearly impact residents’ everyday lives. The ranking takes into account a variety of economic indicators, including purchasing power, healthcare, safety, infrastructure, environmental conditions, and commute times, instead of a single indicator alone.

The robust results in these areas propelled Qatar’s performance above that of many advanced economies with such a history of dominating the global rankings for quality of life.

World-Class Safety Continues to Drive Qatar’s Success

Qatar’s biggest asset is its very small crime rate. It remains one of the world’s safest nations with people having a feeling of safety while working, learning or family activities.

Qatar’s public safety is particularly good, especially when it comes to protecting children, as is its governance and law enforcement makes it very attractive for expats to move with family and multinational companies looking to expand their regional footprint.

High Purchasing Power Supports Comfortable Living

Strong purchasing power is another key factor contributing to Qatar’s impressive rank. Many residents are able to enjoy relatively high income levels, with salaries that are not taxed, and a stable economy, leading to more disposable income than do several Western countries.

This financial benefit allows families to live comfortably to avail the benefits of modern services and high-quality infrastructure.

Healthcare Investment Continues to Deliver Results

For years, Qatar has sought to grow and develop the healthcare system with massive investments in hospitals, special treatment centers and medical technology facilities.

Accessible healthcare services with the help of highly trained professionals and advanced facilities are available for residents, enhancing their overall quality of life and boosting confidence in the health care system.

Vision 2030 Infrastructure Investments Are Paying Off

The long-term Qatar Vision 2030 for development has changed urban transport and public facilities. The residents experienced a marked improvement in travel times and convenience with modern transit systems like that of Doha Metro, good road infrastructure and smart urban planning.

This drive towards infrastructure improvements continue to boost productivity, efficiency and sustainability of daily commute.

Why Does This Matters for Expats?

It’s a positive message to those with experience of their work travelling to Qatar. There are internationally recognized public safety, healthcare, transportation and living quality assets in addition to competitive salaries provided in the country.

The improved ranking benefits employers because Qatar is more able to draw and keep in-house talent, especially from the outside, for sectors like energy, sciences, finances, technology, health care, and education.

FAQs

In 2026, what will be Qatar’s rank in the world for Quality of Life?

According to the mid-2026 Quality of Life Index, released by the Numbeo Global Database, Qatar is the 12th best place in the world to live. It is also second from amongst the Asian countries and amongst the countries located in the Gulf as well.

Which country was Qatar better at than?

The latest studies showed that Qatar scored better than some developed nations including the USA, Australia, Sweden, and New Zealand.

What are some of the factors with regards to the Quality of Life Index?

It considers several factors such as the purchasing power, safety, health services, cost of living, home-to-work travel time, environment and the quality of public infrastructure.