Top 20 Safest Cities in the World — Abu Dhabi Tops The List

Laiba Amir
2 min readJan 27, 2024

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In an era where urbanization is on the rise, safety becomes a paramount consideration for those looking to settle down or explore new destinations. The choice of a city can significantly impact one’s quality of life, influencing factors such as personal well-being, anxiety levels, and overall peace of mind. Recognizing the importance of safety in urban living, the NUMBEO Index has ranked 424 cities worldwide based on various criteria to provide insights into the safety levels of different urban centers.

The NUMBEO Index takes into account multiple factors to assess the safety of a city, including crime levels, safety during daylight and night, incidents such as mugging, robbery, and car theft, as well as physical attacks, insults, and drug-related activities. Cities are assigned scores ranging from 0 to 100, offering a comprehensive overview of their safety profiles.

With 56% of the global population already residing in cities and projections indicating that 68% will live in urban areas by 2050, the safety of these expanding cities becomes a crucial aspect of urban management. Ensuring a safe and secure environment for residents, businesses, and visitors is key to effective urban management and plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall quality of life.

The NUMBEO Index reveals the top 20 safest cities in the world as of 2023, with Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, claiming the top spot with an impressive score of 88.3. Abu Dhabi’s consistent recognition as the safest city for the sixth consecutive year is attributed to its diverse population, low crime rates, and a proactive approach to expelling foreigners who engage in criminal activities.

The description of Abu Dhabi paints a picture of a city where individuals, both locals and foreigners, can walk around safely at any time of the day or night. The low incidence of crimes such as mugging, kidnapping, and pickpocketing is attributed to the city’s reputation for wealth and success. Foreigners are dissuaded from committing crimes due to the swift response of being sent home immediately.

As the world continues to urbanize, the significance of safety in city living cannot be overstated. The NUMBEO Index serves as a valuable tool for individuals seeking to make informed decisions about where to live or travel. While Abu Dhabi may top the list, individual preferences, experiences, and cultural considerations should also play a role in determining the right city for each person. Ultimately, a safe and secure environment is a fundamental aspect of a city’s appeal, shaping the experiences and lives of those who call it home.

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Laiba Amir
Laiba Amir

Written by Laiba Amir

UAE news and diplomacy through the eyes of an expat living in Dubai for 15 years.

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