Dubai and Riyadh enter global top 50 cities in new index

Major Gulf urban centers are gaining global prominence according to recent economic and quality of life indices. In the 2026 Oxford Economics Global Cities Index, Dubai and Riyadh have both entered the world’s top 50 cities for the first time. Dubai climbed to 42nd place, driven largely by a high score in Human Capital, where it ranked second globally. Riyadh saw a significant surge, rising 47 positions to reach 50th place.

Separately, the Numbeo 2026 Mid-Year index for quality of life ranks Manama second among Arab cities, trailing only Muscat. Manama’s ranking was supported by strong scores in safety and purchasing power, as well as relatively affordable housing compared to regional peers such as Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.