The UAE: The Second Safest Country in the World in 2025
In recent years, the UAE has continually made strides to not only elevate its status as a thriving economic hub but also as one of the safest places to live in the world. According to a recent survey released in 2025 by Numbeo, a crowd-sourced online database, the UAE has earned the impressive title of being the second safest country in the world. This is a remarkable achievement, reflecting the nation’s commitment to ensuring security and quality of life for both its citizens and residents.
This blog post delves into the key factors contributing to the UAE’s status as one of the safest countries, compares it to other global leaders in safety, and explores how this is a defining aspect of the UAE’s appeal, particularly for those living in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The Safety Index: What Does It Tell Us?
According to the 2025 Safety Index released by Numbeo, the UAE earned 84.5 points, just shy of Andorra, which topped the list with 84.7 points. The index is a measure of the safety level of countries and cities based on crime rates, the likelihood of being a victim of violent or petty crimes, the presence of law enforcement, and the general public’s perception of safety. The higher the Safety Index score, the safer the country or city is considered to be.
The UAE’s performance on this index positions it at the forefront of global safety, sitting just below Andorra, a small country renowned for its ski resorts nestled between France and Spain. Despite its modest size, Andorra has managed to achieve a remarkable level of safety, but the UAE’s close score reflects its own strategic initiatives for creating a secure living environment.
A Global Leader in Safety
Not only does the UAE lead in terms of safety, but it also outpaces several high-profile countries traditionally known for their global security standards. It is ahead of much larger countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, which ranked 89th and 87th, respectively, with Safety Index scores of 50.8 and 51.7 points. When we look at the UAE’s performance on the world stage, the contrast is evident.
Countries in the Gulf region, including Qatar and Oman, also rank highly in safety. Qatar, with a Safety Index score of 84.2, claimed the third spot, while Oman ranked fifth with 81.7 points. These results underscore a regional trend of high safety standards in the Gulf. This is a far cry from countries like Pakistan and India, which ranked 65th and 66th with scores of 56.3 and 55.7, respectively.
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah: Pillars of Safety in the UAE
While the UAE as a whole shines in the global safety rankings, it is the cities within the country that truly embody its commitment to security. In fact, in 2020, the UAE became the only country in the world to have three of its cities listed among the top 10 safest cities globally. According to a global crime index, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah were ranked among the top 10 safest cities in the world, with Abu Dhabi claiming the second spot, Dubai securing the sixth spot, and Sharjah coming in seventh.
This achievement underscores not just the country’s safety efforts, but also the proactive measures taken at the city level to ensure security. Whether it’s the well-maintained public infrastructure, cutting-edge surveillance technologies, or the visible and efficient police presence, the UAE’s cities are designed with safety in mind. Residents and visitors alike can feel secure walking through the streets, whether it’s the bustling Dubai Mall, the calm shores of the Corniche in Abu Dhabi, or the cultural heart of Sharjah.
Enhancing Quality of Life: Safety is Just One Part
While safety is an essential factor, the UAE’s overall success in creating a livable and desirable environment goes beyond just crime rates. The UAE consistently ranks highly in quality of life indices, and in 2025, it achieved an impressive 21st place in the World Happiness Index, surpassing the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, France, and Singapore. This improvement highlights the nation’s ongoing focus on improving the wellbeing of its citizens and residents through education, healthcare, and social services.
The country’s rapidly developing infrastructure, innovative urban planning, and wealth of cultural, leisure, and entertainment options contribute to its high ranking in quality of life. In fact, when you combine the UAE’s safety with its elevated standard of living, it’s no wonder that it is increasingly attracting residents and tourists alike.
Dubai’s Role in Global Rankings
Dubai, in particular, is frequently a focal point when discussing the UAE’s global standing. Known for its futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant cultural scene, Dubai has also become a global food destination. A recent survey revealed that Dubai ranks as the fourth most popular food destination in the world on social media, surpassing cities like Sydney, Chicago, and Paris. This surge in popularity comes as no surprise considering Dubai’s dynamic food scene, which blends international flavors with local Arabic influences, making it a must-visit location for foodies worldwide.
Moreover, Dubai’s commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for tourists and residents is evident in its approach to hosting world-class events, from the Dubai Expo 2020 to the Dubai Shopping Festival. These events attract millions of visitors annually, all of whom experience the city’s pristine safety record firsthand.
How the UAE Achieved Its Safety Milestones
Achieving such a high ranking on the Safety Index is no accident. Several key factors have contributed to the UAE’s success:
- Efficient Law Enforcement: The UAE has invested heavily in law enforcement infrastructure, ensuring that its police forces are well-equipped, well-trained, and highly visible. Whether it’s the specialized police units in Dubai or the advanced security systems in place across the country, there is a clear commitment to keeping crime rates low.
- Innovative Surveillance Technology: The UAE’s commitment to embracing technology in all aspects of life extends to its security efforts. The nation has integrated sophisticated surveillance systems, including facial recognition technology and AI-powered monitoring, making it one of the most technologically advanced countries in terms of security.
- Community Engagement: The UAE takes an inclusive approach to safety, with law enforcement agencies working closely with local communities. This collaboration helps foster trust between residents and authorities, making people feel more secure and confident in their surroundings.
- Stringent Laws and Regulations: The UAE’s legal system plays a crucial role in maintaining safety. With strict laws on crime, public conduct, and social behavior, the country has set high standards for personal conduct and societal expectations. This ensures that both residents and visitors adhere to the rules, creating a safe environment for all.
The Role of Safety in Attracting Talent and Investment
Safety is a key determinant in any global city’s appeal, and the UAE’s top ranking is a critical factor in attracting international talent and investment. People around the world are increasingly looking for places that offer a high quality of life, security, and opportunities. By ranking as one of the safest countries globally, the UAE has positioned itself as a prime destination for expatriates, businesses, and tourists.
The UAE’s stability and safety, coupled with its growing infrastructure and dynamic economy, make it an attractive location for international corporations looking to establish a presence in the Middle East. Moreover, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are becoming hubs for global conferences, exhibitions, and business events, further cementing their role as international business capitals.
In Nutshell: The UAE’s Commitment to Safety and Quality of Life
In 2025, the UAE’s status as the second safest country in the world is a testament to its ongoing efforts to create a secure and prosperous environment for both residents and visitors. The nation has invested significantly in law enforcement, technology, infrastructure, and community engagement to ensure its residents can live, work, and play in a safe, secure environment.
As Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to grow as global destinations for business, tourism, and culture, the UAE’s safety record remains a core part of its appeal. It’s clear that when it comes to safety, quality of life, and a thriving cultural scene, the UAE is leading the way in the Gulf region and beyond.
With a forward-thinking approach to security and a commitment to improving its citizens’ and residents’ quality of life, the UAE’s future looks brighter than ever. Whether you’re considering moving to the UAE, investing in its growing economy, or simply visiting, you can feel confident that safety will be one of the many benefits of your experience in this remarkable nation.
