UAE capital Abu Dhabi named world's safest city for a decade

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UAE capital Abu Dhabi named world’s safest city for a decade

January 19, 2026

ABU DHABI,— Abu Dhabi has again been ranked as the safest city in the world, holding the top position for the tenth straight year, a global study released by Numbeo said.

The report, issued by the crowd sourced cost of living and quality of life database, placed the UAE capital at the top of its safety index among cities worldwide.

The ranking has remained unchanged since 2017, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s long standing reputation for public security and urban stability.

Officials said the result reflects continued investment in law enforcement, infrastructure, and community focused policies.

The study evaluates safety perceptions, crime levels, and residents’ experiences, drawing data from users across multiple countries.

Major General Sheikh Mohammed bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Director General of Abu Dhabi Police, said the ranking mirrors leadership priorities that focus on human security as a foundation for development. He said the approach has helped create an environment suited for daily life, employment, and long term investment, Emirate New Agency WAM reported.

He said police services in the emirate continue to adopt modern systems and innovative practices to maintain high standards of public safety. He added that confidence among residents and visitors has grown as security services expand and adapt.

The Numbeo crime index also listed cities with the highest crime levels globally. Pietermaritzburg in South Africa ranked as the city with the highest crime index, followed by Pretoria, Caracas in Venezuela, Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea, and Johannesburg.

In the Middle East, the cities identified with the highest crime index were Damascus in Syria, Tehran in Iran, Baghdad in Iraq, Istanbul and Ankara in Turkey, and Amman in Jordan, the report said.

Numbeo said its rankings are based on user submitted data and surveys that measure perceptions of safety and crime trends.

Analysts note that such rankings are often used by individuals and businesses when considering relocation or investment decisions.

Abu Dhabi officials said maintaining public safety remains a central policy goal as the city continues to grow.