Qatar rose to 12th place worldwide among the top 15 countries in the Mid-2026 Quality of Life Index, climbing six positions from the previous ranking.
The country’s latest achievement reflects the success of its comprehensive development model built on investing in people, strengthening security and stability, and continuously improving healthcare, education, infrastructure, and public services, a number of experts and academics have pointed out.
They described the achievement as the result of years of strategic planning and effective government policies that have enhanced public services, accelerated digital transformation, promoted sustainable development, increased the country’s attractiveness to investors and global talent, and advanced the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030.
Dr Muna al-Muslemani, member of the Shura Council and its Health, Public Services and Environment Committee, said that the ranking demonstrates the success of Qatar’s development policies, which have prioritised people through investments in infrastructure, essential services, security, and living standards.
She noted that the healthcare sector has been a major contributor, citing the expansion of hospitals and specialised medical centres, the adoption of advanced technologies, the recruitment of skilled professionals, and an emphasis on primary healthcare, prevention, and early detection.
“Qatar today has an integrated healthcare system comparable to the world’s best, thanks to sustained investment in healthcare services, scientific research, and medical education,” Dr al-Muslemani said.
She added that maintaining this position requires continued investment in health innovation, digital transformation, and preventative medicine.
Economist Dr Abdullah al-Khater said the ranking reflects the success of Qatar’s development model in creating a stable, secure environment supported by high-quality services, economic stability, and a high standard of living.
He stressed that security and stability, reliable availability of essential goods and services, relatively stable prices, low inflation, a stable currency, and sound economic policies all contribute to public confidence.
Dr al-Khater also highlighted advances in digital government services, education, healthcare, transport, and infrastructure, saying citizens and residents experience these improvements daily.
He added that the rule of law, social discipline, and a culture of solidarity and mutual support further strengthen people’s sense of security and belonging.
Education expert Dr Saleh al-Ibrahim, principal of a Preparatory School, said the achievement underscores the success of Qatar’s integrated development approach, which places people at the centre of development through investments in education, healthcare, and public services.
He stressed that quality education is fundamental to building a knowledge-based society capable of innovation and competitiveness.
Dr al-Ibrahim added that Qatar has established an advanced education system based on modern curricula and technology while promoting citizenship, innovation, and excellence.
He said sustaining progress in international indicators requires continued investment in human capital and stronger integration between education, healthcare, and the economy.
Economist Dr Hashem al-Sayed said the ranking confirms that years of investment in infrastructure and public services are translating into tangible results in international quality-of-life indicators.
He noted that the index measures a broad range of factors, including security, healthcare, transportation, infrastructure, and public facilities.
Beyond its social impact, Dr al-Sayed said the achievement enhances investor confidence, strengthens Qatar’s appeal to global talent, and supports its ability to attract foreign investment, as quality of life has become a key consideration for international companies when selecting business locations and recruiting employees.
Writer Abdullah al-Sulaiti said that Qatar’s rise to 12th globally reflects the country’s success in providing a high standard of living through a comprehensive development vision that places people first.
He attributed the achievement to the continuous improvements in healthcare, healthy food, environmental quality, clean air, modern housing, roads, bridges, and infrastructure, while emphasising that the country’s security and psychological, social, and economic stability remain among the most important factors supporting residents’ well-being, productivity, and quality of life.