Abu Dhabi and Dubai have been named the Gulf’s top cities in the latest Global Cities Index, reflecting their growing international standing and economic strength.
The annual index, produced by the Kearney Foresight Network, placed both cities among the world’s top 50. Dubai rose one spot to 23rd, maintaining its lead in the Gulf, while Abu Dhabi advanced 10 places to 49th. Analysts attribute their progress to large-scale infrastructure spending and digital transformation policies that have supported sustainable urban growth.
Qatar’s Doha held steady at 51st, while other regional capitals improved their rankings. Riyadh climbed eight positions to 56th and Manama moved up 10 to 125th. Saudi cities Dammam and Madinah also recorded upward movement, signaling wider regional development momentum.
Globally, New York, London, Paris, Tokyo and Singapore continued to occupy the top five positions. Cities including Almaty, Taipei and Rio de Janeiro made significant progress.
The Global Cities Index evaluates 158 metropolitan areas across five areas: business activity, human capital, information exchange, cultural experience and political engagement. It forms part of a broader assessment of how cities connect and adapt amid shifting global dynamics.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi also ranked highly for ease of entry, supported by new long-term visa options and gradual social reforms that have encouraged foreign investment and talent mobility.
Kearney Foresight principal Brenna Buckstaff said Gulf cities are positioned to influence the next phase of global leadership through sustained reform.
“Gulf cities continue to translate long-term transformation agendas into measurable progress", she said.
“Their rise reflects the results of sustained investment in talent, infrastructure and environmental resilience – foundations that are strengthening their global competitiveness in the intelligence age", said Buckstaff.