Three Saudi cities have made a notable appearance in the Global Liveability Index for 2026, published by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) of The Economist Group, as Al Khobar, Riyadh, and Jeddah have been listed among the top 173 cities worldwide in terms of quality of life.

Al Khobar Governorate recorded the most significant Saudi advancement this year, climbing to 133rd globally, up two places from its 2025 ranking, in an index that reflects ongoing improvements in services, infrastructure, and urban environment.

Riyadh ranked 135th globally, while Jeddah placed 138th, reaffirming the Saudi cities' presence in the international ranking that measures quality of life in major cities worldwide.

The index evaluates over 30 sub-indicators across five main categories: stability, healthcare, education, culture and environment, and infrastructure. It is one of the key global benchmarks used by international companies and investors to assess cities for living and working.

At the Arab level, Dubai topped Arab cities at 79th globally, followed by Abu Dhabi at 84th, Kuwait City (109th), Doha (117th), Manama (129th), then Al Khobar (133rd), Riyadh (135th), and Jeddah (138th).

Experts see the results as reflecting the major urban transformation in Saudi cities under Vision 2030, which has focused on improving quality of life through investments in public transport, parks, cultural and sports facilities, health and education services, and expanding green spaces.

Saudi cities are expected to make further progress in future editions of the index as several mega-projects are completed, including the Riyadh Metro, King Salman Park, the Sports Boulevard, Diriyah, and Qiddiya, along with major development projects in Jeddah and the Eastern Province.

The 2026 ranking confirms that Saudi cities continue to strengthen their position on the global map of most livable cities, backed by massive investments aimed at making them more competitive and attractive to residents, investors, and visitors.