Khobar Advances Two Places in Global Liveability Index

Khobar Governorate achieved 133rd place globally in the Global Liveability Index 2026, published by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) of The Economist Group, advancing two places from last year's ranking, reflecting the success of development efforts and quality projects that have enhanced the quality of life and improved urban infrastructure and services.

Khobar's ranking has shown gradual improvement over the past years, rising from 153rd in 2022 to 149th in 2023, then to 144th in 2024, and to 135th in 2025, before reaching 133rd globally in 2026, reflecting the continuity of development efforts and their positive impact on quality of life and the city's global competitiveness.

The report noted the improvement in Khobar's infrastructure, along with the continued development of the healthcare sector, contributing to the city's advancement in the global ranking and reflecting the impact of development investments and quality projects in the city as part of urban development in the Eastern Province.

The index evaluates 173 cities worldwide based on more than 30 indicators across five main categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure, to measure quality of life and livability.

Dr. Talal bin Nabil Al-Mughlouth, CEO of the Eastern Region Development Authority, affirmed that this achievement reflects the integration of efforts among various government entities and confirms the success of development projects and initiatives in enhancing quality of life and improving the efficiency of services and public facilities.

He noted that this progress embodies the care and attention given to the cities of the Eastern Province by the wise leadership - may God support them - and the continuous support and directives from His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Province and Chairman of the Eastern Region Development Authority, and the follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Eastern Province, Vice Chairman of the Authority, and Chairman of the Executive Committee, as well as the development projects that contribute to improving quality of life and enhancing infrastructure and services efficiency.

Al-Mughlouth added that the Eastern Region Development Authority continues to work with its partners from the government, private, and third sectors to achieve sustainable urban development and enhance the competitiveness of Khobar as an attractive destination for living, investment, and business, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, in addition to supporting initiatives and projects that contribute to urban development, improve service quality, and create a more sustainable urban environment, thereby strengthening the regional and global standing of the region's cities and governorates.