UAE among top ten destinations for expats

A recently issued HSBC survey shows the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is among the top ten most popular destinations for expatriates in the world; the survey indicates the UAE's diverse business landscape and position as an economic hub in the Middle East continue to make the Gulf nation an attractive destination for expats from across the world.

HSBC’s Expat Explorer 2015 survey examined responses from nearly 22 thousand expats from across the world -- including two thousand in the UAE -- assess their views towards life in their host countries.

The UAE was shown as a country that draws expats for the opportunities the nation offers people looking to build their careers or for those seeking to start their own businesses. Dubai was chosen as the second best city globally for expat entrepreneurs.

Although the high costs of living and raising children were cited as concerns by those in the UAE, career progression opportunities coupled high salaries, generous benefits packages and a greater quality of life meant that the country was ranked the ninth best place in the world to set up a home.

The study cited the nation’s position as a global financial hub and increased opportunities for career-driven expats as a driving force behind the UAE’s ranking in the survey.

"On the whole, the UAE continues to be a popular choice for expats as three in five (60 percent) feel their overall quality of life is better here,” Khalid Elgibali, HSBC’s head of retail banking & wealth management in the region, said. “This validation from expats shows that the country is one of the best destinations globally for those looking to move abroad to make a better life for themselves and their families.”