What determines the quality of life across different nations and individuals? Is it a thriving economy, excellent healthcare, or the capacity to inspire adventure and creativity?
Studies evaluating the influence of our living environment on emotions have shown a significant increase in interest in assessing quality of life in recent years. Typically, quality of life in a country is measured using metrics such as income, health statistics, education levels, and environmental quality.
The World Health Organisation defines quality of life as an individual's perception of their position in life within the context of the culture and value systems in which they live, and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards, and concerns.
According to Britannica, the term "quality of life" is inherently ambiguous because it can refer both to an individual's personal experience of their own life and to the living conditions in which individuals find themselves.
“Quality of life refers to the extent to which a person is healthy, comfortable, and able to engage in or enjoy life experiences,” states the General Knowledge Encyclopedia.
Significantly, the 2026 Quality of Life Index by Numbeo has revealed new insights, with the Sultanate of Oman emerging as the top destination for quality of life on the Asian continent, surpassing many developed countries in the world.
With a score of 207.6, Oman reached the helm with a combination of exceptional safety, high purchasing power, affordable housing, and low pollution, although the healthcare scores remained in a mild range. This means the nation offers a high level of daily comfort to its citizens, residents, and visitors.
The Numbeo Global Quality of Life Index is the world’s largest database that counts the volume of user participation as a measure to assess living conditions in cities and countries around the world. The ranking was based on the assessments of the populations within the countries listed in the global platform.
Other Asian countries listed in top of the index in Asia are Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia, Qatar, and the UAE. The top 10 globally include the Netherlands, Denmark, Luxembourg, and Switzerland. These countries combine high safety, purchasing power, strong healthcare, and manageable living costs.
The recognition by Numbeo, a website that gathers information from real people through surveys and user inputs, underscores Oman’s commitment to improving the quality of life for its people and enhancing its global standing as an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.
Living in Oman is highly recommended for many reasons. The country is known for its political and economic stability, making it an ideal destination for individuals and families seeking a secure and peaceful environment.
This ranking, along with other accolades that Oman has in its cap, is expected to positively impact the nation’s global image, enhancing its appeal as a destination for tourism, investment, and residency. This achievement also serves as a testament to the success of Vision 2040, which aims to achieve sustainable development and improve the living standards of citizens.
Oman provides a serene and welcoming environment that enhances the quality of life for its citizens, residents, and visitors. The country boasts well-developed infrastructure in healthcare, education, sanitation, and transportation, ensuring a high standard of comfort and convenience.
According to the Gallup 2025 Global Safety Report, over 94 per cent of people in Oman feel safe walking alone at night, making it one of the safest countries in the world. The Gallup findings rank Oman alongside global leaders such as Singapore, China, and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the Sultanate of Oman’s strong institutions, reliable infrastructure, and cohesive communities.
The Sultanate of Oman’s strong social fabric, characterised by cultural norms of respect, civility, and collective responsibility, plays a crucial role in fostering supportive communities in both urban and rural areas.
What is clear from these definitive rankings is that high income alone does not guarantee top positions. Factors such as health, education, cost of living, cleanliness, and purchasing power play critical roles. It is no surprise that a stable and consistent country like Oman tops the list!
Samuel Kutty
The writer is a freelance journalist and author who worked in Oman and India
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